Steven Pritchard

I am a fully qualified psychotherapeutic counsellor working with clients facing a broad range of issues; including being anxious, stressed or feeling 'lost in the world'; as well as those seeking meaning or purpose in life. I support individuals coping with significant life-changing events such as serious illness, redundancy, divorce or bereavement; and I help those struggling in relationships or with parenting.

My practice is based in Cheltenham and Hereford (on Mondays) where I provide a peaceful and confidential environment for us to explore whatever is going on in your life. 

My background

I bring a wide range of personal and professional experience to my work, and offer a variety of therapeutic approaches within the context of short and longer-term counselling. I have spent many years working in different countries as an intercultural consultant for international organisations. In a world rich with diversity, this is useful when considering how the cultural context of our everyday environment shapes and influences how we experience life and how we feel as a person. I am a Chartered Fellow of the Institute of Personnel and Development.  Prior to working in business, I served for several years in the British military. 

My approach to counselling

As an 'integrative counsellor' my approach combines different elements of specific therapies. Collaboratively we'd explore who you are as a 'whole person' - your wider circumstances and life story - alongside specific issues that you might be facing right now.  

This often involves uncovering and working with hidden or unconscious parts of our inner world; the world we hide away from those in our public space.  I do this by helping you to develop a deeper insight into the patterns of thought, feeling and behaviour, that shape who you are becoming.

Making sense of ourselves

Self-awareness and self-knowledge are valuable if not essential personal resources, when navigating difficult relationships or the sometimes cruel hardships of life's inevitable events.  Working through our own personal experiences with someone we trust and who cares for us; not only lightens the burden of suffering, but can also transform the ways in which we understand ourselves.   Developing a 'narrative coherence' to our sometimes fragmented lives helps us acquire a broader perspective, deeper levels of personal maturity, and greater self-acceptance.

Finding a counsellor who is right for you personally

Seeking help or solace in the presence of another person - a stranger - is neither straightforward nor easy, particularly if you have never done it before.  Finding and choosing the right therapist is both a crucial yet difficult decision.  

I encourage you to speak to several therapists before committing to 'the journey'.  Ask yourself what will it feel like to 'travel with' this counsellor - a professional companion - on an exploration of your 'inner landscape', where at times you might feel quite exposed or vulnerable.  

Email or text are the easiest ways to contact me.  I will always respond to your message at the earliest opportunity.

Session Fee: £65.  

I do not offer concessionary fees due to my existing commitment to working as a volunteer counsellor in an agency that offers low-cost counselling support.