Linda Witchell

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Pronoun: she
MNCS (Acc), MSc Psychology | Counselling, Psychotherapy, CBT

About me

Hi there, I'm Linda, and I'm here to help you find the balance you need in this chaotic world.

With over 30 years of experience in nursing and more than 18 years as a dedicated counsellor specialising in CBT, a psychotherapist, coach, EMDR practitioner, and hypnotherapist, along with a strong background in psychology, I am well-equipped to guide you through life's challenges.

I specialise in helping individuals who are grappling with stress and anxiety issues, and bereavement and loss, to make changes, cope and feel so much better.

The  issues I might help people with include:

  • Bereavement, grief and loss
  • Exams stress
  • Job interview stress
  • Panic attacks
  • Worries
  • Relationship problems
  • Traumas
  • Low mood and sadness
  • Work-related stress
  • Performance issues, such as public speaking
  • Other personal and work-related concerns.

I work with adults and young people.   

Various factors, including relationship problems, unexpected life events, or personal challenges, can trigger stress, anxiety, and worry.

Maybe it's a house move, divorce, death, or any other loss that is affecting how you are coping with life.

Perhaps you or your teenager is feeling stressed due to exam pressures. 

Many individuals require assistance in boosting their self-confidence and self-esteem.

Your journey towards healing begins here. Embarking on a therapeutic path may seem daunting, but you don't have to face it alone. My role is to provide you with a compassionate, safe space where you can freely explore your feelings without judgment. Together, we will uncover the pathways to healing, enabling you to embrace life with renewed strength and confidence.

Let's work together to overcome your challenges and create a brighter, more fulfilling future. Feel free to contact me to book a complimentary initial consultation and learn more. Book through my website at a convenient time for you, www.awakenthechange/online-bookings/ 

Why Choose Me?

Knowledge and Expertise in Stress, Anxiety and Grief Management: Specialising in helping individuals cope with anxiety, stress, and the pain of loss, including pet bereavement. Additional qualifications in helping people with stress.

Integrative Counselling Approach: I blend cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) with solution-focused therapy and other counselling techniques to tailor a healing plan that resonates with you. This means I adapt my approach to suit your needs, using multiple methods to help you succeed.

A Commitment to Empathy and Understanding: Offering a non-judgmental space where your voice is heard and your feelings are validated.

A professional and confidential service: Services based on a code of conduct and ethical practice.

A well-qualified practitioner: MSc Psychology, MSc Hypnosis, MA Interprofessional Health, and level 5 Counselling and psychotherapy. 

I am also a teacher, author, and supervisor of counsellors, hypnotherapists, and coaches. I stay current, continue to develop, and share my expertise. You can find my Amazon bestseller, 'Teenager Exam Stress: A Parent's Survival Guide,' or my 'Managing Pet Grief' through Amazon.co.uk.

Member of the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society and other professional bodies.

  • Easy access: Day, evening, and some Saturday consultations are available.
  • Online Convenience: Offering flexible Zoom sessions allows you to access support from the comfort of your home. 

A Partnership for Your Well-being
I believe in a collaborative approach, where we work together to uncover the root causes of your challenges and develop strategies for lasting change. Whether it's finding peace after a loss or developing tools to manage stress and anxiety, our sessions are designed to be transformative.

Take the First Step
Reaching out for help is a sign of strength.

Book a 30-minute complimentary initial consultation and ask me questions to determine whether I'm the right person for you.

Contact me today and take the first step towards a life of balance and peace. I am here to support you every step of the way.

Block bookings at a reduced price.

Training, qualifications & experience

  • MSc Psychology (Northumbria University)
  • MA Interprofessional Health and Community Care (Bournemouth University)
  • MSc Hypnosis, Research and Clinical Practice (Bournemouth University)
  • BSc(Hons) Nursing Studies (Bournemouth University)
  • Advanced Diploma in Counselling Psychotherapy (Level 5)
  • Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapeutic Skills and Theory (CPCAB level 5)
  • Diploma in Well-being and Stress Management (CPCAB level 5)
  • Advanced Diploma in Counselling Supervision (level 7)
  • Certificate in EMDR (LCHC)
  • Certificate in Online Therapy
  • Certificate in Counselling (CPCAB level 2)
  • Certificate in Pet Bereavement (ABC award)
  • Cruse Bereavement Care Certificate
  • Diploma in Hypnosis
  • Diploma in Business and Personal Coaching
  • Certificate in Life Coaching (NCFE)
  • Ophthalmic Nursing Diploma
  • Supervisors Courses

HypnotherapySociety.png

Member organisations

Registered / Accredited

Registered / Accredited

Being registered/accredited with a professional body means an individual must have achieved a substantial level of training and experience approved by their member organisation.

NCPS
National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society (NCPS)

The National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society This Not For Profit association of counsellors and psychotherapists aim to support the counselling profession, members and training organisations. In 2013 the NCS register was accredited by the Professional Standards Authority under the Accredited Voluntary Register Scheme. Accredited by the Professional Standards Authority.

Accredited register membership

National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society
Accredited Register Scheme

The Accredited Register Scheme was set up in 2013 by the Department of Health (DoH) as a way to recognise organisations that hold voluntary registers which meet certain standards. These standards are set by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA).

This therapist has indicated that they belong to an Accredited Register.

National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society

Areas of counselling I deal with

Other areas of counselling I deal with

Pet bereavement

As I am also a retired nurse I can help you with worries about going into hospital for procedures and operations

Chronic health issues such as IBS.

Life coaching

Supervision for counsellors, and other therapists.

Some training workshops are provided on an ad hoc basis.

Therapies offered

Photos & videos

Fees

Concessions offered for

  • Keyworkers
  • Trainee counsellors

Additional information

£65 per 1-hour session (Most people require more than one counselling session)

Reductions for multiple sessions are applied when payment is made just before the first session. For example,

3 sessions- £185 (save £20)

6 sessions-£385 (save £30)

9 sessions- £585 (save £40)

Booking is accessible through my secure booking system on www.awakenthechange.com/online-bookings/ or by calling 01202 248468.

  • NB Sessions are up to one hour. (Some counsellors only give you 45 - 50 minutes)
  • Handouts are included in the price if required.
  • There are no extra charges for evening/ Saturday appointments.
  • A reduced fee is available for trainee counsellors.
  • Supervision and mentoring are available for other therapists.

Hypnotherapy or life coaching programs are also available. For further information, please visit my website. www.awakenthechange.com 

Payment is accepted via Stripe, my secure payment system on my website. 
As I work full-time in my therapy business, we should be able to find a convenient time for you.

When I work

Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun
Early morning
Morning
Early afternoon
Late afternoon
Evening

Further information

  • Hypnotherapy and Business/ Life coaching are also available.
  • EMDR practitioner.

You will be asked for some information, including your contact details, your health history and the name and address of your doctor.

Anyone with health problems is advised to consult with their doctor first.

Training and supervision provided for other therapists

I regularly teach counselling skills and supervise other counsellors.

Want more information to make a decision? Keep reading.

How many sessions will I need?

That depends on the issue that you bring. A starting point might be 3 to 6 sessions; then, we will review. But if you only want one session, that is possible, although we probably won't be able to deal in depth with the issue and come to a lasting solution in that time.

How much does it cost?

My fees are always displayed on my website. There are no hidden charges.

Can I end my therapy sessions when I want to?

Yes, of course, but I need to know beforehand if you are not getting what you need from my services, as that gives me an opportunity to change direction. Remember, for some people, therapy may also bring up some deep emotions before they feel better.

More about me

I like to support my local community, so I was a volunteer bereavement counsellor, trainer and supervisor for many years for Cruse Bereavement Care.

I have also worked with the Wessex Cancer Trust.

I do ad-hoc volunteer work now.

Find out what others say about me.

'I was stressed about a few issues. Linda gave me the confidence to 'open up' about my thoughts. Relief!' Carol, Ringwood.

'I came to see Linda because of a recent death in the family. I found her service to be well-directed. It enabled me to focus on the issues I could control and put 'into a box' the issues that were outside my control. This helped week after week to unpick the route causes of my anxiety and stress.' Susana, Shaftesbury.

Find Google reviews, check my website for more information, and get a free initial consultation.

Contact me today and find out how you could feel so much better. 

What happens in the session?

Session 1. - Getting to know each other and the problem you want to address. I will provide you with relevant information: an assessment and an agreement on the right way forward. Finally, I listened to your story.

Following sessions, I listened and tried to understand. I ask questions, provide information, and guide you to explore different areas; sometimes, we do little tasks together. Between sessions, we can agree on you doing other small tasks to help you relax and move forward. For example, I might suggest that you write a journal, do some artwork, or go for a daily walk. These tasks help you to change your negative thoughts and behaviours and relax.

Book a free initial consultation online via Zoom and find out more.

Linda Witchell is also registered with Hypnotherapy Directory.

Awaken The Change, 1072 Christchurch Road, Bournemouth, BH7 6DS

Type of session

In person
Online
Phone
Home visits

Types of client

Young people (13-17)
Young adults (18-24)
Adults (25-64)
Older Adults (65+)
Couples
Groups
Organisations
Employee Assistance Programme

Key details

DBS check

In England and Wales, the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS, formerly known as CRB) carry out criminal records checks for individuals working with vulnerable groups, such as children. To find out more, visit gov.uk , or contact this professional directly

Wheelchair user access
Wheelchair user access

Wheelchair-accessible premises should have step-free access for wheelchair users and individuals who are unable to climb stairs. If a Counsellor's premises aren't step-free, they may offer alternative services such as telephone/web-based appointments, home visits, or meeting clients in different location, so you can choose the option that suits you best.

You can contact the Counsellor to discuss the options available.

Under the Equality Act 2010 service providers have a duty to make reasonable adjustments to ensure that individuals with disabilities can access their service. You can read more about reasonable adjustments to help you to access services on the CAB website.

Telephone counselling and Online counselling also available via Zoom or Vsee. This will be particularly helpful for individuals who have mobility problems or difficulties getting to my Bournemouth offices. Specialist in helping visually impaired clients.

Online platforms

VSee
Zoom

Supervision

Online
Phone

I am an integrative/pluralistic counsellor, providing supervision for many years. Online group or one-to-one supervision sessions at convenient times.

View supervision profile

Social

Linda Witchell
Linda Witchell