James Atkins

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We have all experienced times in our lives when we feel stuck or overwhelmed. You may be facing a period of depression or anxiety, having difficulties in relationships, finding yourself repeating unhelpful or destructive patterns, or just looking for a change in your life.

Finding the right counsellor to talk to is important as therapy is a space to explore and grow. Attention to our inner lives requires respect and courage yet fosters greater understanding, healing, growth, and the making of a happier life. You can speak to me in confidence, I will be open, honest, and committed to our work.

People often find it hard to find a therapist because the variety of models and accrediting bodies can be confusing. There are a wide range of approaches to therapy but I find the most reliable predictor of whether any therapy will be useful for someone is whether they feel an alliance with the counsellor they are working with. Contact me to book a session as this is the best way to see if we’re a good fit. After our first meeting, it’s important that you reflect on whether I am the right counsellor for you. If you decide to continue with me, get in touch after our first meeting and we can take things from there. If I feel that there is another counsellor who specialises in a particular area and who may be more beneficial to you, I will also offer recommendations.

I am 'Integrative' which means I am trained in and draw upon a range of approaches to counselling. Integrative therapists take the view that there is no single approach that can treat each client in all situations. A key advantage of integrative therapy is its flexibility and focus on the whole of an individual.

I am a fully accredited member of the UKCP (UK Council for Psychotherapy) and as well as my private counselling practice I worked for the University of East Anglia's wellbeing service providing counselling to students and staff between 2015 and 2020.

Before training as a counsellor, I worked within HR in the corporate world. I found what I enjoyed most was working with people at depth, and outside the bounds of rigid policies or institutional expectations. This is why I chose to train in the world of psychotherapy and counselling.

I have experience in working with a wide variety of areas including but not limited to: relationship problems, suicide ideation, sexuality, anxiety, depression, existential crisis, sexual issues, attachment, self-esteem, abuse, loneliness, addiction, gender identity, loss, bereavement, trauma, bullying, work difficulties, and family issues.

I am committed to ensuring my practice is an inclusive and respectful space for all; regardless of sexuality, gender identity, race, religion, age, body size or ability.

Client feedback:

"I was really nervous as I had not had counselling before and I didn't know what to expect but I quickly felt very comfortable and relaxed."

"I didn't believe anyone could help me before I met this man. James takes time to listen and understand. He is excellent at what he does. The progress we made has inspired me to improve other areas of my life."

"James addresses problems in a way that is very human. We worked towards understanding and solutions through personable conversation; often it was emotional, at other times we laughed, and sometimes we would respectfully challenge each other's opinions or beliefs. In this way, we found clarity in complex thoughts and feelings that I would never have otherwise uncovered"

"James' affable character is disarming and cultivated an environment in which I felt entirely comfortable sharing. And it was enjoyable, I looked forward to meeting James every week"

"You have been such a great help to me. You provided me with a comfortable and safe space when everywhere else has felt terrible. You have helped me rediscover my love for life so thank you for gracing me with your calming, non-judgemental attitude. I appreciate it so very much"