Claire Beatson (BSc Sociology, MSW/CQSW, Cert Counselling/Diploma Counselling)

I come from a background of over 30 years working in Social Care, the NHS and youth/community organisations across diverse communities. As a qualified counsellor since 2008 I remain passionate about working therapeutically with people.                 

Maybe you are struggling with difficult feelings due to issues in your past or present, or you have a sense that you would like to make changes in your life. My way of working is to provide you with a safe, supportive therapeutic relationship from which we can explore ways forward at your pace.

Are you going through significant life transitions or challenges? For example bereavement, or any kind of loss, change in health/ability, sexual/gender identity, redundancy, relationship breakdown, menopause, and retirement. Any of these may leave you with feelings of confusion, depression, anxiety amongst other emotions. In counselling I can help you explore such feelings and find your own way with them.

BEREAVEMENT COUNSELLING Grief can take many forms, affecting people quite differently and at varying times. For some the feelings can be quite overwhelming, and often outside pressures to 'get back to normal' can add to this.  There is no 'right' or 'wrong' way or time to grieve, and counselling can help you explore the range of emotions you may be experiencing.

NATURE THERAPY From my love of spending time in nature, I've become increasingly aware of how relating with a natural landscape can help us to access our inner, emotional landscape in a more natural, reflective way. This has led me to do some training in taking therapy outside (September 2018). Walking, and connecting with nature, can provide you with powerful insights into whatever you may be struggling with emotionally.

MINDFULNESS/ MEDITATION. I have been practising mindfulness and meditation since undertaking a short course in 2011, and have run group sessions including mindful walks in nature. I can help you develop a practice that suits you. Many clients find it helps to reduce and manage stress/anxiety and depression.

CREATIVE/EXPRESSIVE ways of working may be incorporated, such as using natural objects, colours, drawing, which can help you express feelings that may not be clear, or difficult to find the right words.

For further information about the way I work, and whether this might be helpful for you, please don't hesitate to contact me.

I can offer short, medium and long term counselling and work flexibly to suit your needs. I have availability Monday to Friday 10 am to 7 pm.

Working from home, I am based near Heaton Park tram station.