Ikuko Abe

Please have a look at my video intro here:

https://youtu.be/m4wJ4eXutII

As a couple therapist and family counsellor, I am here to facilitate you and your partner or family members to build empathy, understanding and connection through identifying familiar behaviour patterns, exploring family and cultural backgrounds and trying alternatives in a safe environment. Often couples argue because they become stuck in a rigid pattern. By unpacking and deconstructing an argument, we can work through why you feel distressed, confused, defensive, or unhappy.

Have you or your partner had an affair?
Do you want to separate or divorce?
Are you unhappy with your sex life?

These are all the questions that couples bring to my practice. If you feel they apply to you and want to work through them, please give me a call to discuss further on 07757 215168.

For individual clients, I would help empower you to make your own choices, offer a space to explore the difficulties you are experiencing, delve into and resolve past or recent issues, identify your inner strengths and resources to work through your difficulties. We will work together at your own pace, without fear of criticism or blame. I always endeavour to provide a warm, caring and sensitive space that feels safe and confidential.

For all of us, life can sometimes be a challenging or meaningless struggle. We may feel stuck, helpless, overwhelmed or lonely. When we feel these strong emotions, sometimes this leads to feelings of anxiety and uncertainty. What we often seek is clarity and understanding. Counselling is an opportunity to talk to someone who is impartial, in a safe and confidential environment. You may find that it is a relief to be able to share your most personal, intimate thoughts and feelings, when you don't want to burden your friends and family. It is also an opportunity to gain insight and self-awareness, in order to lead a more fulfilling life. Many people find it a positive, life-changing experience. I believe it is the best way of finding our true self and therefore the best gift we can give ourselves.

Please feel free to discuss any concerns you have by calling 07757 215168. When you are happy to commit, we can then agree to work together, usually on a weekly basis.

For supervision, please see my supervision profile and my website.