Julie Strahand

Hello, I’m Julie. Thank you for reading my profile.  

Are you going through some difficult times or struggling to make sense of events in your life? Are you grieving the loss of a loved one, or trying to cope with a relationship breakup, feeling isolated, stressed and anxious due to work pressures, or coping with a long term or recent physical health condition? All of these issues, and more, can leave us feeling depressed, exhausted, anxious, guilty or fearful.  You do not have to face these things alone. 

How can counselling help? Counselling provides the opportunity to alleviate the symptoms of anxiety and depression, by allowing you to explore negative emotions, in a safe space. I will support you to speak openly, and make sense of your feelings and concerns. I’ll do this with respect, empathy and without judgement. As you build confidence, you will begin to realise that you have the opportunity and resources to make choices. My counselling sessions provide the emotional support you need right now. I will help you develop strategies to be better equipped to cope with the challenges you face. These coping skills are another benefit of counselling. You will be able to use them in the future, if needed, to help you manage any negative symptoms that may occur. 

I have been in your shoes. I understand how daunting or scary it can feel to ask for help from a counsellor. My experience tells me that making the first move, to email or pick up the phone, is the acknowledgment that I need some help. And it’s ok to ask. Being in counselling sessions can feel like a weight has been lifted, that someone is really listening, they care about me, and I am worth caring about. You will find that I am approachable, friendly and always kind. It’s important to me that you feel heard and acknowledged. 

Knowing what you are going through and why, how we sometimes react and behave to our feelings and thoughts, can benefit those to gain understanding, i.e. psychoeducation.  Therefore I may integrate ways of working to support you as an individual,  for example;  Mindfulness, psychoeducation, and cognitive behavioural therapy.

I offer individual counselling sessions to help with issues including loss and bereavement, grief, abuse, anxiety and depression, trauma, work-life balance, and relationship issues. I work from the person-centred approach, which means I will put you at the centre of the counselling sessions, and be guided by what is important to you. Within the setting of my counselling sessions, providing the environment for psychological change and growth, you will develop the knowledge and ability to move forward.

For those who want to make life style changes  but are unsure where to start, or struggle to find the motivation; as an Accredited Health and Wellbeing Coach, I will work with you, to increase self-awareness, and identify any barriers which may be stopping you reaching your goals. This may be increasing physical activity, losing weight, building confidence, adopting healthier eating habits, or improving your wellbeing.  My aim is to help you achieve your outcomes in a way that you can manage, and help you take control to make healthier, happier life choices. I will share my knowledge and expertise, and support you to make and maintain lifelong changes. 

Sessions are from £40 and last for a full hour.  I offer an initial free 20 minute phone call for you to have the opportunity to discuss your counselling needs, and ask me any questions you may have. 

Call or email for a free initial 20 minute talk, to see if you would like to work with me or to ask any questions you may have.  As I may be working, please leave a voice message and I will return your call.  My counselling room is home based and on the first floor.