Is this a difficult season? Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges?
Do you find yourself in need of someone to help you make sense of your emotions - looking for the ‘stepping stones’ ?
In life, there are many seasons - it can be a journey filled with twists, turns and pivotal moments which shape us in profound ways. Yet, sometimes these experiences can weigh us down, affecting our relationships, well-being and overall outlook.
Whatever you are facing, know that support is available. Reaching out can be the hardest but it is the most important first step toward positive change.
Counselling is more than just a conversation; it is a collaborative process designed to empower you with tools, insights, and strategies tailored to your needs.
It is an opportunity to gain clarity, foster resilience, and take meaningful steps toward improved well-being, whether you are addressing specific issues or seeking greater balance in your life.
When asked what counselling is and how it can help, it can helpful to think of life a bit like a suitcase. Just as a suitcase can get jumbled and things get stuffed in, the same is true of our emotions. The events and experiences of life, both the good and the bad can get all shoved into our ‘emotional suitcase’ and it can become heavy to carry each day, or you may even feel that it has burst open, and its contents is all over the floor!
This is where counselling can really help. In counselling, we look through that ‘emotional suitcase’ together in a safe space. Some of what is in there you may decide you no longer want, and it needs to go! Other things will be ready to be put straight back in as it is something treasured, whereas other things may need to be refolded before it can go back in.
For various reasons, you may feel unable or hesitant to share your struggles with friends or family. This is understandable, as certain issues may require a level of confidentiality and impartiality that personal connections cannot always offer. A counsellor can meet you where you are with empathy, professionalism, and expertise, helping you explore your concerns openly without fear of judgment.
I’m Jen.
I am a qualified, BACP registered and experienced therapist based in Orpington, south-east London. In addition to being a therapist I am also a qualified and registered British Sign Language interpreter - I split my week between both professions as I have a genuine love of both… I like working with people!
I find that not only does this allow me to offer counselling sessions in BSL for Deaf clients, but being an interpreter provides me with a wealth of experience that extends beyond traditional counselling. The professions complement one another and also gives me particular insight into those professions prone to vicarious trauma and the emotional toll of witnessing challenging events as part of their work life.
You’ll find me warm, approachable, honest, and deeply passionate about the transformative power of counselling. I am passionate to support and work with people so that they can become all that they want to achieve, without barriers.
If not working, then I can be found pottering around the garden enjoying the seasons or I love nothing more than a walk by the sea or watching a good film!
Prices
telephone
£60
Sessions 50 mins
Online
£60
50 mins Zoom
Face To Face
£65
Sessions 50 mins
Counselling is an investment in the self and when budgets and time is tight it can seem a lot, but you can arrange what works for you.
For instance , coming to counselling every two weeks may suit you more than weekly.
I also offer you first session for free, this way you can see if I am the right counsellor for you without obligation.
Do you have a specific specialism?
My area of specialism is loss and grief - loss and grief can impact all areas of our lives and in ways we do not realise that can be traced back to a loss. In addition to this, my work as British Sign Language interpreter means that I share a unique understanding and insight of working in those professions that are prone to vicarious trauma and emotional toll of witnessing challenging events.
However, this does not mean that I do not work with those who are wanting to work on other things. I also work with individuals who are struggling with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression through to dyslexia and learning difficulties. Moreover, there are moments... or seasons in life... when we need to simply just sit and talk things through with someone.
Why are sessions 50 mins?
50 mins is what is known as the 'counselling hour'. It is the agreed profession optimal length for clients, however for some a longer session once a month may be what they are looking for...If I can accommodate it I will!
Do you have a particular counselling approach?
I am an integrative counsellor this means that I do not only follow one single method for all my clients. Instead, I will come alongside and find out what the individual needs and apply the most appropriate psychological theory and approach for that person - after all we are not all the same!
Will you give me advice?
No.
This is a common misconception about counselling. I believe you have the answers you are looking for within you and it is far better if you find your own answers. I will work with you to support you to find those answers … or, to continue the theme of this practice - find your personal ‘stepping stones’.
How many sessions will I need?
This will be up to you!
You are not tied into a fixed number of sessions.
It will depend on what you are looking to work on - the more complex an issue, the more time it will take to work through.
It will also depend on how much time you want to give to working through the things that have brought you to counselling.
Many people come to counselling for a ‘season’, and then feel ready to finish. That is always the aim of counselling, that you will no longer feel you need us!
Where are your face to face sessions held?
Currently I am offering face to face sessions in Orpington, just up from the Nugent Shopping complex. It is easy to find and there are excellent transport links.
Do telephone and online sessions work as well?
For many clients this is their preferred way to have counselling! Many people feel more comfortable and confident in their own spaces. It is just important to ensure that you can find a space that you can speak freely and not be overheard, as confidentiality is essential.
There are many benefits to working on the telephone or online. For many people time is limited, so working on the telephone or online reduces the time and effort required for travelling to and from a session. This is particularly beneficial for those with limited mobility.
Do you have a cancellation policy?
Yes.
I would always ask my clients to give me as much notice as possible if they are no longer able or wanting to attend an agreed session.
However, if there is less than 48 hours notice I will charge for that session.
OK, I'm interested... what do I do now?
Sending me an email on: info@seasonsandsteppingstones.co.uk or filling out the contact form below is the best way to get in contact with me. We can then arrange a time so that we can chat through what you are looking for.
