Helen Greaves MBACP
Psychotherapist and Counsellor
There are many reasons for seeking therapy, but the first step can feel daunting. You may feel vulnerable and reluctant to reach out. Or perhaps you’re in the habit of managing very well on the surface while pushing your anxieties out of view?
Whoever you are and however you’re coping, or not coping, I can offer you a place where you’ll be listened to and helped towards a better understanding of yourself and your situation.
When we see ourselves clearly, we open up new possibilities and create choices. We make ourselves stronger.
My work is collaborative and inclusive. I work transparently. I won’t suggest you lie on a couch. My starting point is what’s happening in the here and now.
At times therapy can feel challenging but I will always be on your side. It’s a process of discovery, a journey that we embark upon together.
MY
APPROACH
Effective therapy starts with a good relationship between client and therapist.
I’m open, warm and non-judgmental.
I aim to understand the world from your perspective and bring to your attention patterns of behaviour you may not be aware of.
MY
EXPERIENCE
I've worked with a diverse range of clients aged from 18 - 80 yrs in private practice and for NHS services, offering long-term and short-term therapy.
Professional bodies:
I'm fully insured and a member of BACP.
Registered member MBACP 412650.
I have a degree from The University of Manchester, a Diploma in Counselling Skills from The Mary Ward Centre and a Counselling Diploma from The Gestalt Centre. I have worked for The Awareness Centre providing counselling services for the NHS.
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In an earlier career I worked in the theatre and I was a script editor and Drama Producer at the BBC and a screenwriter in film and television.
I work with issues arising from a sense of powerlessness, of low self-esteem, of isolation, of love and loss. Perhaps you recognise yourself somewhere
in all of this.
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Anxiety
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Depression
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Bereavement & grief
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Self-esteem
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Shame
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Relationship issues and problems
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Parenting, step-parenting and family dynamics
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Narcissistic abuse
ISSUES
I WORK WITH
I work with people suffering from depression and anxiety. With those impacted by narcissistic abuse. With people who carry the burden of hidden shame arising from sexual abuse, neglect, trauma and betrayal.
I work with clients who have been trapped in complex family dynamics, and with those who can’t make their relationships work. With those who feel they could be happier and more fulfilled but don’t know how to achieve that.
WORKING
TOGETHER
My practise is loosely based upon the principles of Gestalt but is influenced by studying other forms of therapy and by my life experience - who I am.
In practice this means:​
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I aim to build a trusting relationship with my clients and create an environment in which they feel comfortable to express themselves.​
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I strive to understand the world from my client’s perspective.​
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I believe myself and my client to be individuals of equal status.
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​I work together with my clients in the spirit of setting out on a journey.
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I’m curious and creative.
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I don’t just talk about the past, I pay attention to the here and now.
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I seek to raise my client’s awareness so they can better understand how they communicate and relate to others.
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I help to identify where my client can exercise choice.
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I believe my clients have everything within themselves to improve their situation.
MY
PRACTICE
I offer long-term and short-term therapy in person at Barnsbury Therapy Rooms in Islington and online.
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Barnsbury Therapy Rooms:
144 Liverpool Rd, Islington, N1 1LA
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I offer a free phone call for any prospective client in advance of a first session.
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Please contact me about rates. I have a few concessionary places for those on lower incomes.
