Steven Ballantyne

I am a psychotherapist and counsellor, working one-to-one from a person-centred perspective.  I can offer you a safe, confidential, non-judgemental, warm and empathic environment within which to explore whatever is going on for you.  That may mean helping you get to the root of your anxiety or depression;  it might mean figuring out why you find it difficult to connect with your feelings at all ... It may mean any number of things.  We all have different reasons for seeking therapy.

In our work we might explore around the visible edges of things, if that's where you feel safe and is all you need right now; or we can dive into the deeper parts of yourself where the roots of your issues originally grew. It's up to you; we can say enough to manage your current situation and bring some respite, or we can go to the source of your difficulties and work on integrating your experiences in pursuit of a permanent resolution.

Who can I help?

It might be that you’re feeling down and not quite 'right', or it might be that you’re struggling with more intense psychological problems.  Perhaps you've never felt a need to seek help before, or perhaps you've sought help countless times already.  Perhaps you're fighting addiction.  Perhaps you're grappling with the consequences of abuse.  Maybe you've been diagnosed with a mental illness.  Maybe you're having relationship issues.  Maybe you've suffered a loss.  Or maybe you're fed up with anxiety compromising what you feel able to do in life. 

Whatever your situation, I can offer support as you move through a difficult chapter in your life.  Psychotherapy can be a lifeline and a key that unlocks a way forward and a pathway to growth.

"I found Steven at a point in my life when I was willing to try anything to help myself feel better. He appeared friendly and approachable in his profile picture and the fact he was male made me think I’d get a different outlook on things, as it had always been females I had spoken to in the past.
His room is bright, airy and comfortable, with a good view. Steven is a great listener, never judging and always understanding, regardless of the situation being described. I had tried many other services before, like CBT and other talking therapy, and felt this was my last attempt at finding what was “wrong” with me. After speaking to Steven over a number of sessions I felt such a sense of relief and honestly felt the weight of years of trauma finally lift from my shoulders. I now know there was never anything “wrong“ with me - instead I had been let down by the adults in my life as I was growing up. The survival behaviours I had learned as a child were now adversely affecting my adult life.
I now have a feeling of freedom, my thoughts are my own and I’m allowed to think them, regardless of what others may think about that. My life is my own for living as I feel is right, regardless of how others might feel about that.
I can’t thank Steven enough and although I am feeling content just now I know I will contact him straight away if I ever take a step back or face any other life dramas I don’t feel I can deal with alone. The change I feel in myself is amazing, and it’s thanks to our sessions."

" I've been feeling more like my old self of several years ago.  Family are telling me how much more relaxed I am, and how much that means to them and our friends.   Without doubt, Steven was the catalyst, the unlocker, the life reviewer and the private confidante that made me re-evaluate so much in my life. He has been pivotal in getting me settled into decoupling from work and concentrating on family, health, retirement and friends. "

" I went in shaking and so anxious I didn't think I'd be able to say a word ... When I first met Steven he made me feel so at ease and calm. After a few sessions I really came out of my shell and felt like I could trust him. I said more to him than anyone close to me ... I have really found his help has worked and made me move in the direction I need to go to get back to my happy self. "

" I found my sessions with Steven very helpful - he was incredibly empathetic and put me at ease straight away. I was very comfortable discussing things with him and found his comments to be very useful and insightful. The appointments were very engaging, Steven is a great listener and I always left feeling positive. I would definitely recommend Steven to anyone who is considering therapy. "

"I valued our sessions even though at times they were difficult for me.  I found Steven to be consistent, reliable, warm and honest. I felt challenged but also supported and he made the process of accessing therapy with him very easy."

"I was lucky to find Steven at a point in life when time for myself was low and stress was high. Steven went above and beyond my expectations and, as someone who has seen numerous therapists in the past, I cannot recommend him more. If you are looking for someone who takes a holistic, evidence-based approach to your care, and genuinely listens and wants to help, you will not go wrong visiting Steven. I have no doubt I will be seeing him again in the future and that to me is a reassuring thought."

If therapy is to be effective it's essential that you feel comfortable and at ease with your therapist. Research tells us that the quality of the relationship between client and counsellor is by far the most important determinant of a positive outcome of therapy.

Sessions last for 1 hour and cost £60. 

Evening appointments are available.  Home visits can occasionally be arranged, at additional cost.