Life is too short for stress...

My name is Alexandra, and I am a qualified and registered (BACP) integrative counsellor. I provide one-to-one counselling for adults (18+) both remotely and in person from my practice in Weymouth. This website offers information about counselling, including who may benefit, as well as details about my practice, therapeutic approach, and professional experience. If you have any questions or would like to discuss how counselling could be helpful for you, please feel free to contact me via email (details in the top right corner). My privacy policy and additional resources can be found in the bottom left corner

    

A common question is, "What is counselling, and who can benefit?" Counselling is a talking therapy that provides a safe and confidential space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings with a trained and qualified counsellor. It can be helpful for a wide range of concerns, from everyday stresses, low mood, and relationship difficulties, to more complex issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, eating disorders, experiences of abuse, and trauma. Sometimes, people seek counselling when facing a specific challenge or feeling "stuck" in a particular area of their lives. This list is not exhaustive, and counselling can be beneficial for anyone at various points in their lives.

Counselling offers an opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery within a non-judgmental and empathic environment. It can be a valuable tool for enhancing self-awareness and reaching your full potential. While counselling does not involve giving direct advice, it focuses on collaboratively exploring different perspectives and strategies to help you navigate your unique circumstances and find solutions that work best for you.

My interest in human behaviour and a desire to support others led me to pursue a career in counselling. I am passionate about understanding the complexities of human emotions, motivations, and mental health. Prior to training as a counsellor, I gained valuable experience working within health and social care. Subsequently, I volunteered at Redlands Counselling and Training Agency, providing support to adults experiencing common mental health difficulties. I also worked with a diverse range of individuals and presenting issues at a local drug and alcohol agency. I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), hold an enhanced DBS certificate, and maintain full professional indemnity insurance.



Professional qualifications:

MSc Health Psychology
Level 4 Humanistic Integrative Counselling
BSc (Honours) Psychology
Ongoing CPD training

My therapeutic approach is integrative, drawing primarily from person-centred, transactional analysis, and Gestalt therapies (further information on these modalities can be found in the resources section). I view the therapeutic relationship as a collaborative journey, where you are the expert on your own experience, and I provide guidance and support. I offer a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, whether you choose to meet remotely or in person.
I also adopt a biopsychosocial perspective, recognising the interconnectedness of biological, psychological, and social factors in shaping an individual's wellbeing. Therapy can be short-term or open-ended, depending on your individual needs and goals, with regular reviews to ensure we are working effectively. I offer flexibility regarding the frequency of sessions to best suit your circumstances.

Issues I help with:

Anxiety	Trauma
Stress	Coping
Depression	Women's issues
Changes, transition	Health-related problem
Relationship/family issues	Cultural issues/belonging
Historical abuse	Sex-related issues
Burnout	Identity issues
Self-esteem	Work-related problems