Jenny Gibbs Counselling

How I work

"The degree to which I can create relationships, which facilitate the growth of others as separate persons, is a measure of the growth I have achieved in myself.”

― Carl R Rogers, On Becoming a Person: A Therapist's View of Psychotherapy

I offer a safe and confidential space in which to explore whatever it is that has brought you to therapy at this time and to feel heard and accepted. My work is largely underpinned by Humanistic and Person Centred foundations with a strong influence and focus on the existential elements of life.

My work is relational which means that I understand the importance of our relationship. I take time to understand how you are feeling and learn what your life is like for you as we explore what has brought you to counselling. I strive to create a trustworthy relationship which will enable you to open up and get the most out of the session.

My work is client led, which means that I have no agenda and am there to work with the needs of the client at all times.

I work from a calm, quiet and comfortable private room, easily accessed by train or car. and see clients either face to face or online via Zoom.

I believe that clients have, within them, the resources for growth and change, and that they are the experts in themselves. My role being to help support and encourage exploration of the self, helping each client connect with their inner values and intrinsic sense of self-worth, in order to gain self understanding and an ability to find their own way forward.

I work Existentially, helping individuals live more authentically, exploring what it means to take ownership of their lives and to live fully in the present. Developing healthy relationships with themselves, others and the world around them. The view of the person as actively seeking meaning and fulfilment puts a strong focus on the concept of process. This sense of fulfilment is a continual challenge or journey to be experienced, not an end-state to be attained.

Essentially, for me therapy is about finding a way of 'being' in the world that feels manageable. Finding ways to cope and recognising that we are all defined by our choices and actions; restrictions and freedoms and our awareness of such.

'An existential approach to psychotherapy recognises and considers the various experiences life can bring. This involves the understanding that from time to time life can be difficult and challenging and it is the role of the therapist to consider and help clarify these issues.'

Chris Scalzo (2018) Therapy with Children.

An Existential Perspective.

Sessions are 50 mins long and can be time limited or open ended.

I offer long-term work or more short term depending on need.

“People are just as wonderful as sunsets if you let them be. When I look at a sunset, I don't find myself saying, "Soften the orange a bit on the right hand corner." I don't try to control a sunset. I watch with awe as it unfolds.”

― Carl R. Rogers, A Way of Being