Andy Hughes
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This professional is available for new clients.
This professional is available for new clients.
About me
Hi, I'm Andy and I'm a qualified and accredited counsellor based in south Bristol (FdA, MNCS Accred.).
My approach to therapy is known as pluralistic (or eclectic), which draws on skills and theory from humanistic, cognitive, and psychoanalytic branches of psychology. I consider this to be a collaborative form of talking therapy which provides space for you to come to your own conclusions about your situation and problems, and to facilitate healing at your own pace. Where appropriate, I might sometimes suggest incorporating creative techniques into the work, where appropriate, and although I would discuss this with you beforehand, so the purpose and hopeful benefit of the technique is understood.
I can offer therapy face-to-face or online via video conferencing depending on your needs and circumstances.
Please note that occasionally my responses to enquiries may go to your spam/junk mailbox. I attempt to respond within 48 hours during my working week (Monday - Thursday) - not including annual leave.
Training, qualifications & experience
My core training includes a Foundation Degree in Counselling (completed with a Distinction grade in 2021), awarded by the University of Plymouth. Prior to this, I had completed multiple Counselling certificates at various institutions in the UK. More detailed information about my experience, training and additional development can be found on my website. My training is 'generalised' meaning that I do not specialise in a specific area but can help with a variety of issues from anxiety and depression to bereavement and trauma.
I started private practice in November 2021, but I have worked with multiple charity services in Bristol, BANES and Gloucestershire as a volunteer counsellor since 2019. During my early training, I also volunteered as a group facilitator for a local mental health support group, and gained further third sector experience working in the offices of another agency.
In my previous career, I worked in the wholesale energy industry for just over 9 years, with a mix of duties from business analysis and systems testing, to contract analysis and legal negotiation. Prior to working in the energy industry, I spent 8 or so years working in various retail positions around the country.
Member organisations
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
Therapies offered
Photos & videos
Fees
£30.00 - £45.00
Free initial telephone session
Concessions offered for
Additional information
My current fees are £45 for a 60-minute session. I offer a concession fee for students and those on low incomes; however, spaces are very limited and often taken. Please see my website for more details.
I accept payment by bank transfer only and cannot accept cash or debit/credit card payments. Payment is due the business day prior to the session or payment may not go ahead.
I also operate a 48 hour cancellation policy.
When I work
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Please see my website for more details on my specific availability.
Further information
Prior to working as a therapist, I worked in the corporate world of wholesale energy for many years, and I spent many more years prior to this working in various retail positions. While I greatly enjoyed my former career in the energy industry, I decided that I wanted to change the direction of my life and find work that was more personally fulfilling. I have been lucky enough to travel extensively and experience different cultures and perspectives, living in various towns and cities around the UK and abroad. I decided to make Bristol my permanent home in 2017, having spent time here as a child (and young adult), and it is in the city that I base my practice on. I am fully committed to equality and offer an LGBT+ inclusive service.
