Chris Garvey

Chris Garvey – Person-Centred Counsellor in Powys & Shropshire

Counselling for anxiety, stress, depression, bereavement, burnout and life changes

Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stressed or low? Perhaps you are struggling with bereavement, a difficult life change, relationship problems or the pressures of work and everyday life.

You may have reached a point where things feel difficult to manage on your own, but talking to someone about what you are experiencing doesn't feel easy.

I am Chris Garvey, a qualified Level 5 Person-Centred Counsellor, offering confidential counselling for adults in Powys and Shropshire, as well as online and telephone counselling.

I provide a calm, supportive and non-judgemental space where you can talk openly about what is happening in your life. You don't have to have everything worked out before you start counselling, and you don't need to know exactly what you want to achieve. We can begin with wherever you are now.

Counselling for men

I have a particular interest in supporting men who may find it difficult to talk about their mental health or ask for support.

Many men are used to dealing with problems themselves, getting on with things, and putting others' needs first. This can make it difficult to acknowledge when things are becoming too much.

My own background in agriculture, construction, transport and business means I understand some of the pressures that can come with practical and demanding working environments.

You may be dealing with anxiety, stress, depression, anger, burnout, relationship difficulties, bereavement or a major change in your life. Counselling can give you somewhere to talk honestly and without judgement.

Anxiety, stress and burnout

Anxiety and stress can affect every part of life. You may find yourself constantly worrying, struggling to switch off, feeling exhausted or overwhelmed, or experiencing a loss of confidence.

Work and financial pressures, running a business, relationship difficulties and major life changes can all contribute to stress and burnout.

Counselling can provide an opportunity to step back from the pressures around you, understand what is happening and explore healthier ways of managing difficult thoughts, emotions and situations.

Bereavement and loss

As well as completing additional training in bereavement counselling, I recognise that loss can take many forms.

You may be grieving the death of someone important, but loss can also involve the end of a relationship, a career, a business, your health, your independence or the future you had imagined.

There is no single way to grieve. Counselling can provide a safe space to process your feelings and make sense of what has happened.

Trauma-informed counselling

I use a trauma-informed approach, recognising that difficult and traumatic experiences can affect the way we think, feel, behave and relate to other people.

I have completed additional training in trauma-related areas, including vicarious trauma, burnout and resilience, and continue to develop my professional knowledge and skills.

My approach is always centred around you, your experiences and what you feel comfortable exploring.

My approach to counselling

I am a Person-Centred Counsellor, which means that I believe the therapeutic relationship is an important part of counselling.

You will be listened to with empathy, respect and without judgement. I won't tell you what you should do or try to make decisions for you. Instead, I will work alongside you to help you explore your thoughts and feelings, develop greater self-understanding and identify a way forward that feels right for you.

I work within the ethical framework of the National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society (NCPS) and am committed to ongoing professional development.

My experience

Before becoming a counsellor, I spent many years working in agriculture, construction and transport, and then established and ran my own business.

I ran a restoration and cleaning company for more than 25 years, employing staff and managing the many responsibilities involved in running a business. I understand the pressures of responsibility, leadership, financial concerns, work-related stress and trying to keep everything going while supporting the people around you.

I have also worked alongside many people from the Armed Forces community. This has given me an appreciation of military culture, discipline, teamwork and some of the challenges that can arise when transitioning from military to civilian life.

I believe my combination of professional counselling training and real-world experience helps me build meaningful relationships with people who may feel that others don't fully understand their circumstances.

Counselling in Powys, Shropshire and online

I offer face-to-face counselling in the Powys and Shropshire border area, as well as online and telephone counselling.

Whether you are looking for a counsellor for anxiety, stress, depression, bereavement, trauma, burnout or simply need somewhere to talk about what is happening in your life, I offer a confidential and supportive space.

You don't have to wait until things become unbearable before seeking support.

If you think counselling could help, please get in touch. We can discuss what you are looking for and whether I might be the right counsellor for you.

Working Hours:
I offer weekday appointments and will do my best to accommodate your needs. Early morning sessions are available. Please get in touch to discuss availability.