Samantha Downes

Why Come to Counselling?

Please note I am unable to take new referrals until further notice

At times life can be tough and choosing to engage in counselling takes courage. What I offer is confidential and non-judgemental. It is supportive but offers challenge, too. It can be good to talk to someone impartial who can listen without judgement accept and value you for who you are. Through the counselling process I aim to help you express your feelings and explore your experiences. Helping you gain a deeper understanding and begin to make choices and changes that are right for you. Counselling can help you understand your current situation as well as your past experiences and/or worries about the future. Counselling gives you the space to explore your experiences and develop coping strategies for the future.

About Me

I have a Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology and am a Registered member (registration No. 817799) with the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) which means that I follow the BACP Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professionsand am fully insured.

I have worked primarily within a workplace setting for the NHS for many years providing support to all levels of NHS staff on a full range of issues; on an individual, group and training setting. I have 11 years of experience, having seen many different people presenting with a variety of issues. I use an Integrative approach, having studied and trained in a variety of approaches including CBT and will draw on all of these to tailor the counselling to your needs.  We will review our work together on a regular basis to ensure I am working in a way that is beneficial for you and at a pace to suit you.

What I Can Provide

I can provide support to adults with a range of issues including loss, change, stress reduction, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, work or personal issues. I also have experience in providing post incident support to teams and individuals.

I work from my private office in Stoke-on Trent and can work with people both on a short and long term basis and with adults of different ages and from different backgrounds. Counselling sessions are strictly confidential and professional. Frequency of sessions will depend upon the needs that you present.

I aim to provide a safe and confidential environment where we can explore any issues you may wish to bring. Counselling sessions are time for you and are driven by what you want to work on in the session. I draw on a variety of different ways of working and will always tailor my way of working to best suit your needs.

I am also a qualified Supervisor and have 10 years experience working with counsellors in training as well as qualified counsellors. I completed my training at the Manchester Institute of Psychotherapy and primarily us the Hawkins & Shohet 7 Eyed Model of Supervision.

Getting in Touch

If you would like to get in touch then you can either call on the number above (please leave a voice mail if I am unable to answer) or click on the 'e-mail' button. If you e-mail me with a contact number I am more than happy to contact you. I check me e-mails on a daily basis and will respond to you as soon as I can. Please be assured that both methods of contact are confidential. Once you have made contact we can arrange an initial session. If you are happy to continue we can arrange to meet at a pace that suits you.

What to Expect in Your First Session

Our first session will involve an opportunity for you to ask any questions and for me to gather a little information from you and to explain in more depth the counselling process and confidentiality . It also involves an 'Agreement to Work' that lays out the boundaries of counselling so that everything is clear right from the start. We will also formulate what you want to work on during the sessions and any goals of therapy can be agreed (these can be reviewed at any time during the counselling process). It is an opportunity for you to see if I am the right counsellor for you and if I offer what you are looking for.

Where to Find Me

I have a private room located in Fenton Town Hall, Baker Street, Fenton, Stoke-on-Trent, ST4 3BX. I am just off the A500 in Fenton with the train station near by and just off the main bus route through Fenton. I also have access for anyone with mobility issues.

Thank you taking the time to read my profile and I look forward to meeting you.

The fee for individual counselling is £35 per session. If you are on a low income or experiencing financial difficulties then it may be possible to negotiate a reduced fee. Reduced rates are also available for students looking for personal therapy or supervision.

Cancellations :

Missed appointments with no notice or with less than 24 hours notice will be charged at the usual rate.

Cancellations with more than 24 hours notice will not be charged.