Claire Couch

I offer counselling of a Humanistic Integrative Modality. But what does this mean exactly? Well, simply put, it means that I draw on more than one theoretical model of counselling psychology to empower you to discover your own solutions to issues in a supportive, non-judgemental and confidential environment. Everyone is unique and my integrative training enables me to adapt my approach to suit you and your needs. Only you know how you are feeling, and I will listen carefully with an empathic ear to get a real sense of your experience from your perspective. My aim is for you to feel truly heard. But I won't just listen. I will offer you my honesty and respect and work with you to develop a better understanding of yourself, that brings awareness, so you can choose new, more helpful ways of coping with life's ups and downs. In essence, I will help you make positive change. I have a particular interest in working creatively using practical activities such as sand tray, picture cards, drawing and metaphor and often use mindfulness and body awareness techniques. However, I appreciate that this may not be for everyone and will only approach our work together in this way if it's comfortable for you.

For those who are experiencing high levels of anxiety or trauma I can confidently offer a Trauma Focused Therapy approach. This is a three stage approach to therapy with a strong emphasis on safety and stabilisation before trauma processing begins. 

I also offer Autogenic Training (AT).  AT is a desensitisation-relaxation technique which significantly reduces stress and tension and improves sleep and mood regulation.  AT is very beneficial to people who are stressed, work hard and are at risk of, (or already in), burnout and suffering from chronic tension.  In addition, conditions such as migraine/tension headaches, hypertension/coronary heart disease, asthma, Raynaud's disease, tinnitus, sleep disorders and anxiety disorders, all improve when people practice AT.  It does require an initial commitment to 6 sessions, plus home practice, to learn the technique, but once learnt is quick and easy to do and is very effective. 

I have gained much of my experience working for Macmillan Cancer Support in Eastbourne and Headway East Sussex (Acquired Brain Injury charity) in Newick. Both of these charities have given me valued counselling experience with life changing illness and injury, bereavement and the emotional difficulties of anxiety, depression and relationship problems that often occur as a result of such unexpected change. Experience which is very relevant for supporting those affected by the more recent Covid 19 health crisis.  In addition to my private practice work, I feel very privileged to support Sussex Community Development Association (SCDA), in the fast track referral service for the Support for Survivors of Suicide (SSOS), counselling those who are feeling suicidal or have recently attempted suicide.

For my Private Practice I work from my home in Pevensey, East Sussex. Sessions may be offered face to face, online or by telephone, whichever is most appropriate for you and your circumstances.

COVID There is no longer a legal requirement to self isolate if you have Covid. However, I confirm that I will self isolate if I contract the virus and will not return to face to face work until I register a negative test.  Telephone or online sessions will be offered as an alternative if at all possible. If clients are feeling unwell with Covid-like symptoms I respectfully request that they take a lateral flow test and, if positive, do not attend face to face sessions until registering a negative  test. Many thanks for your co-operation with this. 

My Qualifications:

• BSc (HONS) Combined Sciences
• Diploma in Humanistic Integrative Counselling
• Certificate in Online & Telephone Counselling
• Advanced Certificate in Trauma Focused Therapy
• Certificate in Autogenic Training
• Certificate in Counselling Children & Young People 11-18 yrs

I regularly attend workshops and online lectures and courses to keep my training fresh and up to date. 

£50.00 per session
Free initial in-person, telephone or online session