Abbie O'Connor
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This professional is available for new clients.
This professional is available for new clients.
About me
Have you had difficulties with others not accepting you for who are? Perhaps for example you are neurodivergent, and others have failed to understand your needs, and that can be really isolating. Perhaps you have been through bullying, or other kinds of abuse? I understand that sometimes it can feel so hard not to be understood and accepted for who you are and sometimes that may make you feel depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed.
If we decide to work together, I would get alongside you to listen as you express what works for you, and look at what you need and what helps you feel better about you. I also can help you work through the aftermath of any bullying or trauma, and work out a way to get out of it if needed. I am experienced in working with survivors of abuse of many kinds, including those with complex trauma, dissociation and DID.
I also really welcome trans and other LGBTQIA+ clients and understand the importance of identity, fully accepting ourselves and being affirmed by others.
I am sensitive to cultural differences and open to learning about your personal experiences, including any impacts of prejudice or racism.
How I Work
I use an integrative approach, tailoring sessions to suit your unique needs. This means blending different types of therapy to find what works best for you. For example, I might use:
· Person-Centred Therapy to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space for you to express yourself.
· Trauma-Informed Techniques to help you feel grounded and secure.
· Creative Methods for those who want to explore through art, storytelling, or movement.
What to Expect
Counselling sessions are available:
· Online (via secure video platforms).
· By phone for those who prefer voice-only sessions.
· Face-to-face in one of my counselling spaces, or in a local park for outdoor sessions.
Sessions are collaborative, and we’ll work at your pace to explore what feels right for you.
Training, qualifications & experience
My Training and Experience
I hold an Advanced Diploma in Integrative Counselling and have completed further training in:
· Attachment and Trauma
· Working with Dissociative Disorders
· Counselling Young People
· The Sesame model, which uses creative self-expression to explore inner experiences.
I’ve worked in various settings, including as a counsellor in a GP surgery and in, a carers support centre and in a charity for abuse survivors. I have also worked as a support worker in women's services and in mixed community projects over the past 25 years. This has allowed me to support people with a wide range of challenges, including survivors of complex trauma, individuals with learning or physical disabilities, and those experiencing mental health difficulties.
I have 29 years of experience in supporting people who experience complex dissociation, and have in-depth understanding how to work with people with DID or OSDD and their partners or close supporters.
Member organisations
school Registered / Accredited
Being registered/accredited with a professional body means an individual must have achieved a substantial level of training and experience approved by their member organisation.
The National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society This Not For Profit association of counsellors and psychotherapists aim to support the counselling profession, members and training organisations. In 2013 the NCS register was accredited by the Professional Standards Authority under the Accredited Voluntary Register Scheme. Accredited by the Professional Standards Authority.
Accredited register membership
The Accredited Register Scheme was set up in 2013 by the Department of Health (DoH) as a way to recognise organisations that hold voluntary registers which meet certain standards. These standards are set by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA).
This therapist has indicated that they belong to an Accredited Register.
Areas of counselling I deal with
Other areas of counselling I deal with
- Childhood Emotional Neglect
- self-care
- working with the inner child
- sub-personalities
- childhood issues
- memories
- incest
- spiritual abuse
- organised abuse
- cyberharassment
Therapies offered
Fees
£70.00 per session
Free initial telephone or online session
Concessions offered for
Health Insurance/EAP
When I work
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Further information
Let’s Work Together
If you’re ready to take the next step, I’d love to hear from you. Get in touch to book an intro call or ask any questions. Together, we can explore a way forward that feels right for you.
