Linda Witchell
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This professional is available for new clients.
This professional is available for new clients.
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, psychotherapist, coach, EMDR practitioner, and hypnotherapist, along with a strong background in psychology, I am well-equipped to guide you through life's challenges.
My specialisation lies in helping individuals who are grappling with anxiety issues, whether it's the stress of exams, the pressure of job interviews, or personal and work-related concerns. I've had the privilege of working with adults, and young people dealing with a wide range of issues such as anxiety, bereavement, grief, stress, relationship problems, panic attacks, trauma, addiction, depression, sadness, and low self-esteem.
Feeling overwhelmed and not good enough is a common experience when you're faced with stress, anxiety, or grief. The solutions to your problems may seem distant and out of reach. I understand these struggles because I've been helping people like you navigate through similar difficulties throughout my career. Moreover, I've also learned how to manage my stressors, making me a knowledgeable professional and someone who genuinely empathises with your journey.
Stress, anxiety, and worry can be triggered by various factors, including relationship problems, unexpected life events, or personal challenges. Perhaps you or your teenager are feeling stressed due to exam pressures. It's essential to acknowledge that fears, phobias, driving nerves, career dilemmas, and performance anxieties can all contribute to these negative feelings. Additionally, 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 reach out, and we can start this transformative journey together.
Why Choose Me?
Knowledge and Expertise in Stress and Grief Management: Specialising in helping individuals cope with anxiety, stress, and the pain of loss, including pet bereavement.
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 that I adapt my way of working to suit your needs, as I have many approaches to helping you find success.
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, level 5 Counselling and psychotherapy.
I am also a teacher, author, and supervisor of counsellors, hypnotherapists, and coaches. I stay current and continue developing and sharing my expertise. You can find my Amazon bestseller, 'Teenager Exam Stress: A Parents Survival Guide,' through Amazon.co.uk.
Member of the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society and other professional bodies.
- Easy access: Day and evening consultations are available.
- Online Convenience: Providing flexible online 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 roots of your challenges and build strategies for long-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. I offer a 30-minute free initial consultation, allowing you to understand how we can work together towards your goals. In this consultation, we can discuss your needs, my approach, and how therapy can be a powerful tool in your journey towards wellness.
Ready to Begin?
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.
Book a free initial consultation online today.
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
Member organisations
school 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.
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
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.
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
Fees
£70.00 per session
Free initial in-person, telephone or online session
Concessions offered for
Additional information
£70 per 1-hour session
Reductions for more than one session are booked at session one. For example,
3 sessions- £190 (save £20)
6 sessions-£390 (save £30)
9 sessions- £590 (save £40)
Booking is accessible through my secure booking system on my website, www.awakenthechange.com or call 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.
Or for clients seen in my office by credit/debit card, BACS or cash.
As I work full-time in my therapy business, we should be able to find a convenient time for you.
When I work
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Monday - Friday 10.00 - 19.00. Occasional Saturday counselling by arrangement.
Face to face, Telephone and Online counselling.
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.