Duncan Ellison

Introduction

An experienced counsellor with over five years of client work; both in a private practice and within academy schools. I am comfortable working with young people (11+) and adults who are looking to understand, explore and make sense of their circumstances.

How I work

I work in a pluralistic manner, offering a multi-faceted approach to your needs. Utilising psychodynamic, person centred and behavioural therapy to assist you to understand your circumstances, explore your thoughts and emotions and develop new - and positive coping strategies. I work face-to-face and online, offering the same confidentiality and positive regard which ever option you choose.

How my approach will benefit you

I always put the client at the heart of the process, encouraging you to explore what might not be obvious at first, while empowering you to peel back the emotional layers, at a pace to suit you. I don't subscribe to 'out of the book' or 'off the shelf' solutions to unique and personal problems; I will, however, build a therapeutic relationship whereby you will quickly feel able to safely talk about your circumstances while heading toward positive change. The plan is dynamic and will develop as your confidence and self-awareness grows.

Let me invest in you

As everyone is different, I try not to label myself within a particular area of expertise. My skill is working with you to find the right kind of therapeutic support that is beneficial - and lasting. We achieve this by building a tight and trusted rapport, without judgement or conditions. By investing in you, I am better placed to help you find your path.

We are going to find the authentic you

As the world is changing at a rapid pace, your frame of reference, view of self and understanding of the environment around you may have changed. My experience allows you to explore these internal and external adjustments in a way where you can find your own version 2.0 - an authentic self which works for you. Neurodivergent, LGBTQ+, and non-binary clients are welcome.

What to expect in your first session

You are more than likely to be nervous - and that’s okay. You may even be emotional - that’s okay too… the important part is to be honest and open. I have no expectations, so let’s see how it goes. I will discuss a confidentiality agreement with you, and settle you with some non-counselling conversation; this will get you into the feel of how talking in confidence works. The aim is for you to be as comfortable as you can be, so we can begin to discuss your situation. Most people are surprised at how well the first session goes and are enthusiastic to move forward. Pace is really important, so we’ll work with small and achievable goals. You’ll soon know if it is for you, or not. If it is, we then book in either weekly, or three session slots with regular progress reviews. 

More about me

I am a joint partner in a trusted counselling practice called Active Listening Therapies which has been working with a diverse range of clients since 2017. We manage a therapeutic framework across three academy schools in the region, while also working with individual clients who can come to out discreet practice located close to London Road on the Newark/Balderton border.

In addition to working with clients, I also teach on several respected counselling courses.

I offer a simple rate card:

Single session price £40.00
Three session bundle £100.00

Weekend (depending on availability) session £60.00 

I offer a concession for student counsellors with a session price £30.00

Following your initial enquiry, I offer a free telephone call to allow us to discuss yourself, your circumstances and what our work might involve. This is an opportunity to get to know each other to ensure you are happy you have found the right choice of counselling professional. If you are still unsure, I am happy to meet for a further, free, consultation. This will be an exploratory discussion, not a counselling session.

You have to be comfortable with your choice of counsellor, so I welcome exploritary emails and calls. I also offer a 30 minute online therapeutic consultaion free of charge.

Our therapy rooms are located on the ground floor with access to a kitchen and w/c. Parking is available at most times.