Denise Longhurst

Hello,

Thank you for visiting my counselling and psychotherapy page. You may be reading this because you are feeling sad, depressed, stressed or anxious. You may be struggling with overwhelming experiences, having relationship difficulties or in the aftermath of a trauma or loss. You may just be wanting to explore your sense of self and are seeking therapy for your well-being and self-care. 

These are just a few of the many reasons why people often reach out for support. Whatever your own personal reason for reaching me, I want to acknowledge your courage and assure you that you are not alone. Help is available to you. 

About me: I am a qualified and trustworthy counsellor and psychotherapist, registered with professional organisations BACP and UKATA. I hold a Diploma in Trauma Therapy and a UKATA Diploma in TA practice (psychotherapy). I am currently working towards CTA, a masters-level qualification in Transactional Analysis Psychotherapy. 

I am often told by clients that I am approachable, caring and easy to talk to. Prior to setting up private practice in 2018, I worked for various charities as a volunteer counsellor and I have acquired a wide range of experience working with people from all walks of life, who experience all kinds of difficulties.

I enjoy integrating different approaches into my work to match your unique needs. I currently work with adults, teenagers, young people and couples. My main training has always been in TA, but I also use a variety of different approaches such as mindfulness, creativity and some CBT. 

I am experienced in helping clients with a wide range of difficulties including generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety, depression, panic disorders, low self esteem, grief, stress, divorce, relationship problems, trauma, disabilities and life-changing injuries. 

Whatever your reason for reaching out, I can provide a safe, confidential space for you to explore what’s going on for you. I will listen wholeheartedly to you, help you to discover your own inner resources and identify patterns in your thinking, feeling and behaviour that may be getting in your way of living a full and happy life. You can be the person you want to be, rather than who you feel you should be. 

In addition to private practice, since 2019 I have worked part-time in a secondary school as a school counsellor, where I see students aged 12 to 16 who have a range of difficulties including self-harm, suicidal ideation, anxiety, low mood, identity confusion, sexuality concerns, gender confusion and depression. This has given me a really good understanding of the challenges that young people face and the difficulties they experience in today’s world. Young people often find relief in talking to me about their experiences. 

Here are some additional details about what I can offer:

Creativity: If you would like to work creatively together I am happy to facilitate this using sandtray, metaphor, images, creative writing and so on. Creativity can be helpful in exploring our subconscious and giving us a different perspective on what you are going through. It’s not everyone’s cup of tea, so no pressure! 

Mindfulness: I have experience of teaching mindfulness to groups, individuals, schools and organisations across the UK in order to improve wellbeing. Mindfulness can be very effective in reducing anxiety, stress and depression and improving emotional resilience. Learning some basic skills in mindfulness can have some fantastic positive results on your well-being. 

Trauma: If you have suffered trauma that is impacting on your daily life please let me know as I can offer a specific 4 stage trauma therapy treatment plan. I hold a Diploma in Trauma Therapy and have experience of working with traumatised people.

Goals: It can be helpful to have an idea of what you'd like to achieve by seeing me. You may not know at the moment what your goal is, and that is absolutely fine. We can review this as we go along.

Length of therapy: Each session is 50 mins for individuals and 60 mins for couples.
I can work on a long term or short term basis, depending on your needs. 

Insurance & Supervision: I am fully insured and I complete regular professional training. I am regularly supervised by two UKCP registered Supervisors.

I am a member of professional bodies UKATA, EATA and BACP and adhere to their code of ethics and professional practice.

Couples: I currently offer a discounted rate for couples. I will offer you both a safe space to explore your areas of difficulty and I will help facilitate communication between you. We can look at the difficulties arising in your relationship, and explore different ways of communicating and getting your needs met. 

I understand how difficult it can be to reach out for support. I have been there and I understand. Asking for support is an achievement in itself, so well done for getting this far.

I look forward to hearing from you and supporting you on your own unique journey. 

Warm wishes

Dee

I offer a free face to face initial session to discuss your concerns and get to know each other. There is no obligation to continue if you do not feel I am the right therapist for you. 

After the initial free session, my fee is £50 per session for individuals.

Please let me know when you first make contact if you would like to be considered for a discounted rate. 

Couples:

I currently have a discounted rate for couples of £50 per session, instead of £65.