Lai Fun Russell

Hi, I’m Lai. I can offer you a safe, confidential, non-judgmental space where we can explore your thoughts and feelings on the issues that bring you to counselling. I have experience working with people struggling with anxiety or depression, trauma, low self-esteem, relationship problems, bullying, loss of motivation, unresolved childhood issues, workplace issues as well as addiction and grief. I am an integrative counsellor, using different therapeutic models tailored to your individual needs.

I have been an NHS General Practitioner for over 30 years, so have seen people go through many significant life events, such as  major illness, chronic ill health, mental health difficulties, losses in many forms, and conflict in their relationships.

I was born in Hong Kong, but raised in the UK. My first language is English.  I have lived and worked professionally in different areas of the world, including China, Egypt and the Philippines. I am familiar with the many cross-cultural issues that affect people.

I am strongly motivated to help people move from ‘being stuck’ or confused about themselves to living life to the full. I have completed a two year counselling diploma and a BSc Honours degree in counselling and psychotherapy. My special interest is in autism and how counselling is beneficial for people who are on the autism spectrum, whether they have a formal diagnosis or not.

I use person-centred, psychodynamic, CBT, existential and creative therapies as well as mindfulness. After a few sessions it usually becomes clear to each client which therapeutic method is working best for them.

I offer a 30 minute introductory interview via Zoom for a modest fee . There is no obligation to proceed after this.

 We review your therapeutic journey regularly to ensure that we are progressing towards your goals. Regular weekly sessions would be the norm, although sometimes fortnightly sessions may work also.

I also work as a volunteer counsellor in two counselling services in Edinburgh.

Testimonial from previous clients:

"You helped me make sense of my thoughts and feelings, you guided me through some very difficult subjects with understanding and patience. I felt very comfortable talking to you."

"..helped me climb out of the depths of despair, and better understand what I was going through"

Send me an email and we can discuss what your issues are and whether we can work together to overcome the challenges facing you.

Availability

• Tuesday - am, pm and evening
• Wednesday - early am and evening

Fees

• £25 introductory video session (30 mins)
• £50 per hour
• £65 per hour after 5 pm
• £30 concession rate
• Concessions offered for: unwaged, full-time students, trainee counsellors
   

• Fully insured through Holistic Insurance
• Counselling member of COSCA no. 4372
• Clients must be over 16 yrs old.
• I am comfortable consulting face-to-face, by telephone or video conferencing.
• Virtual platforms include Zoom and doxy.me - these are very simple to use and are secure.