Alastair Coomes MSc, BSc (Hons), Dip SpLD, PGCE, MBPsS, MBACP, AMBDA.

About me

My belief is that if we are not feeling at our best psychologically; having a tough time in our work or facing a big personal life change, talking to someone can be hugely beneficial. As a therapist I help support people through the bad times and see the possibilities that can be hidden from view. I have been involved in supporting adults and young people overcome difficulties for over 20 years as a therapist, coach and teacher. As an integrative therapist I always try to work in a way that suits my clients rather than them having to fit around a rigid dogmatic theory

I am a relational and integrative counsellor, with a existential foundation.  In practice this means that:

• Relational - I believe that as most problem have been caused, or at least amplified, by bad relationships. Consequently, a good therapeutic relationship can heal. A central part of my practice is providing a warm, safe, compassionate, respectful, and confidential environment. By feeling supported you will be able to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours.
• Integrative - I’m educated and trained in a wide range of approaches, theories and skills, which enables me have access to many techniques that may benefit, and this enables me to be responsive to your unique needs
• Existential - I believe that all people can live in a high state of life and my job is to help you draw that out of yourself. You are your own expert, but I can be the skilled person to help you overcome your difficulties.

What I offer and getting started

I offer fifty minute, one-to-one sessions with adults. This is provided in a private therapeutic space close to Claygate Station. Appointments can be organised by calling or emailing me via the contact details above. You are welcome to use these same contact details to ask me any preliminary questions you may have. Our first session is very much focussed upon whether you and I feel we could beneficially work together.  To do so, we may talk a little about what has brought you to meet with me, however you may not know and that is okay.  You are welcome to ask me any questions you have about my practice, the process and what to expect.

Training, qualifications & experience

Qualifications

Psychotherapy & Psychology

• Masters of Science (MSc- Level 7)  in Psychology

• Level 7 (Masters level) in Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy

• I’m also completing a Doctorate in Counselling Psychology

Other qualifications

• Bachelors in Science (BSc)
• Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
• Diploma in Specific Learning Difficulties (Dyslexia)

In addition to these assessed and validated qualifications, I am passionate about my Continued Professional Development (CPD) and regularly participate in further training and seminars.  This enables me to constantly learn new skills and be informed of new research which can be offered to you where it may be appropriate and beneficial. These include:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
• Obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Cognitive Behavioural Coaching (CBC)
• Brief Therapy
• Domestic Violence
• Attachment Issues
• Addiction
• Stress reduction
• Triple P - Positive Parenting
• Supervising Learners in Practice
• Harassment and Bullying
• Learning Disabilities and Mental Health
• Equality and Diversity
• Safeguarding Adults, Safeguarding Children, and Safeguarding Domestic Abuse

To complement my formal learning and CPD, I engage in weekly personal therapy and fortnightly supervision.  Personal therapy enables me to remain well connected to the experience of being a client.  Supervision enables you to benefit from the very best service I can provide.

Experience

For over 20 years, I have supported children, young people and adults through some of the most difficult times in their lives.  Starting out as a teacher but leading to work therapeutically. This has been in a variety of settings, including charities, not-for-profit organisations, schools and children’s centres as well as community psychiatric services and private practice.

Thanks for reading, and please call if you feel I can help.