Rachel Farrington

Hi, I’m Rachel and I'm a therapist based in Taunton with over a decade of experience working with individuals and families of all age groups.   I offer a warm, empathic, confidential space online, or in-person. 

I currently work as a school counsellor and within a private therapy setting, and  am a fully accredited member of the BACP.  I have specific training in mental health in young people, anxiety, depression, stress, eating disorders, addiction, self-harm and domestic violence.

I help my clients manage a range of issues, such as anxiety, self-harm, stress and addiction, enabling them to move forward with their lives and feel more positive about the future.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How do I find the right therapist?

Directories such as the BACP or NCS Counselling Matters will list relevant therapists, local to you. It's a good idea to ask to have a preliminary phone call to discuss your situation to get an idea of the therapist, their availability and what support they can offer to you.  It’s hard to know which therapist will be the right “fit” until you start the therapy process, but if in time, you’re not sure, I would encourage you to be open and honest about how you’re feeling.

Which theoretical model do you adopt?

Within the sessions I adopt an integrative approach and draw exclusively, or collaboratively on: cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy and/or compassion focused therapy, depending on your needs.  

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) focuses on current problems rather than issues from the past and is based on the concept that thoughts - feelings - behaviour are all interconnected.  Negative thoughts are powerful in making us feel in a particular way and in turn behave in a particular way. Changing the thoughts we have can have a profound effect on how we feel and subsequently how we behave.  CBT looks at practical ways to improve your state of mind on a day-to-day basis. 

Psychodynamic therapy looks to understand how current feelings and behaviour are shaped by the past.  The relationship with the therapist is central to the approach as being able to trust encourages talking freely and openly about areas such as childhood and relationships with others. This can help in understanding current feelings and behaviour and how this affects relationships and day-to-day life.  

Compassion focused therapy focuses on the cultivation of self-compassion, which regulates mood and leads to feelings of safety, self-acceptance, and comfort.  This approach can be used alone but can also be used alongside other theoretical approaches to add another layer of support.

I also integrate aspects of play, if appropriate, with the use of sandtray, modelling, drawing, writing stories, and arts and crafts, all of which we can discuss further during our first session.  

What happens if I can't make my appointment?

I appreciate there may be times you’re not able to make your appointment and request 48 hours notice, so the time can be reallocated.  In the event that 48 hours’ notice is not given, the missed session will need to be paid for in full.

How confidential are the sessions?

All therapy sessions are confidential, and any records kept are kept in accordance with the Data Protection Act.  In exceptional circumstances confidentiality may need to be broken, but this would be discussed with you first.  

How long will it take until I feel better?

Therapy is a commitment and there is no “quick-fix”, so this is a difficult one to answer!  However, we will regularly review and revisit your goals to ensure that you get the best outcome from your therapy sessions.

Should you wish to make an appointment, please do get in touch.  We can then work out a mutually convenient time to meet,  and have a discussion about what support you are wanting, alongside your goals and expectations for therapy. 

I also hold professional liability insurance and a full DBS. I adhere to the ethical framework and attend regular CPD and supervision.