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I deal with a range of issues including anxiety, depression, relationships, self-esteem and stress.
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What are your main hobbies?
I enjoy going to the cinema, spending time with family and friends, listening to music, going to the gym. I love travelling.
What kind of television, films, and music do you enjoy?
I’ve got a cinema pass so I like to try different things. I try all sorts of films I wouldn’t go to see normally and have really enjoyed them.
I love Beyonce, Destiny’s Child, Jennifer Lopez.
Just anything that puts you in a good mood as well. I like reality TV too, just because it makes you relate to other people. You just switch off for half an hour and don’t think about your life. I don’t want to be switched on all day every day.
What do you do to stay well?
I think self care is so important so, for me, driving home from a session is the most significant thing, listening to my favourite songs. Even things like having a bath and taking time for you. I like to have alone time, which I think is important. If I spend too much time with other people I do want to close off a bit, so I make sure I do have that alone time.
I think a lot of people think self care has to be climbing mountains or big stuff – it’s not. It’s whatever makes you feel better and gives you that space to process what’s happened that day.
What is your favourite place?
New York. I went there last year and absolutely loved it.
I love seeing different cultures, seeing what it’s like in other places, and getting a feel for the food and music there. I think it’s really important to open your eyes, especially because a lot of people would just be in the pub on a Friday night and spend easily £100. That money to me is a flight or a holiday, so I’d rather use my money in that way.
What would you say are the main issues people are facing?
Nine out of ten of my clients present with anxiety.
I think people are realising that mental health is just as important as physical health.
I have seen more and more males come into my practice, and I’m so pleased that they’re doing that and finding the confidence to come and see someone.
A lot of people don’t talk. Just having one person to talk to makes such a difference and I think it’s so important.
What do you think are the main causes of anxiety?
I would say a lot of it is due to not having someone to talk to, because you bottle it up and explode.
What kind of therapist are you?
I am trained in Person-Centred therapy, so basically the emphasis is not on the therapist fixing you. It’s more that you’re there to do the work and I’m going to support you, be by your side, and listen to you.
I think the most beneficial part is the listening, as so many people aren’t listened to. It really does help you to open up and unravel things. I don’t give guidance or direction, which a lot of people think counsellors do. I am literally here to listen and help you dig deeper into what the issue is. It’s not about treating the symptoms – it’s about treating the cause.
If someone was nervous about starting therapy, what would you say to them?
I try and keep it as simple as possible. I explain exactly what’s going to happen.
I try and be as friendly as possible during the conversation, using simple terms to not overcomplicate it. I try to reassure them that you don’t have to keep coming if you don’t like it – you can come once, see how you feel, and then decide if it’s for you. I try and make it as least pressured as possible.
Hannah is a registered BACP counsellor working with issues including anxiety, depression, relationships, self-esteem and stress.
The Liverpool native is passionate about making counselling relaxed and accessible, and will help you deal with emotional issues while encouraging a better understanding of yourself.
Hannah understands the importance of being fully heard and believes in dealing with the underlying cause of any issues. Not just the symptoms.
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I help clients with issues such as: anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and grief.
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A BACP registered counsellor, Ieva treats issues including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, unhelpful behaviours, relationship struggles and abuse.
She understands the difficulty some face when talking about emotional struggles, and the loneliness this can bring. With care and encouragement, Ieva helps her clients to develop self awareness and inner strength.
Ieva is passionate about mental health, expertly using her therapeutic skills and her lived experience to help her clients become the best version of themselves.
What are your main hobbies?
I started learning guitar when I was about 13 or 14. That’s also something that can be therapeutic as well, just to make up tunes and hear the different sounds. It can be really relaxing and can elevate your thoughts. It’s almost like a meditative or cathartic thing.
What kind of television, films, and music do you enjoy?
I’m sort of into dad rock really! Bob Dylan, The Beatles. I like a lot of stuff from the sixties and seventies, like Queen, David Bowie, and Fleetwood Mac. The more contemporary stuff I’m into is bands like The White Stripes – that raw, kind of indie or garage rock sound. Bluesy stuff like The Black Keyes too.
I love Game of Thrones and I also quite like Tim Burton films. I really like Drew Barrymore as well and I watch everything she’s in. A sort of cheesy film that I like – going back to when I was in school – is Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion with Phoebe from Friends in it. Friends is also one of my favourite TV shows, as well as The Big Bang Theory.
One of my favourite books is Frankenstein by Mary Shelley. I just love that Gothic style and the rich detail. It just really had me gripped page after page.
A counselling author that I really love is Irvin Yalom. He’s a really famous counsellor and psychotherapist who writes fiction as well as books about clients. He actually teaches me a lot and has been my biggest teacher lately. He’s really funny and he’s like a dog with a bone. You get taught as a counsellor to let it come from the client; don’t try and chase a story, and go with their own feelings at their own pace, but he really is relentless in trying to find out the reason behind things. He does it in such a skilled, professional way that he really helps and really deeply cares about people.
What do you do to stay well?
The first thing that comes to me is communication. That’s something that has really deepened for me since training to become a counsellor; communicating openly and authentically with everybody and not storing things up.
I’m also into meditation. I like doing silent meditations and they’re my favourite. I’ve also used apps like Insight Timer, which is a great free app which teaches you how to meditate. I’ve recently started doing yoga in the morning with my housemates too.
I love nature and going on walks, especially with a friend or with my boyfriend to talk. I love going to the beach as well.
What is your favourite place?
It sounds quite cheesy but at the moment, my favourite place anywhere on earth is with my boyfriend.
In terms of travelling, a place I really felt at home in was Berlin. There was just a sense of being brand new there and everyone feeling comfortable to be whoever they want to be. It felt so fresh and I think that might be mainly because it has all been rebuilt after the war. You can feel a sense that it’s brand new and everyone is young.
There’s just an energy there of everyone wanting to be connected and that everyone is reinventing themselves there. People just talk to you in coffee shops – total strangers. When we went out clubbing, it’s not like here where you just go out with friends. People actually wanted to meet you and be friends with you.
What would you say are the main issues young people are facing today?
A big thing that comes to mind generally is social media. I think a large part of being happy comes from connection and as people are becoming more and more disconnected they’re losing that sense of connection with people. People are more anxious now, people are more depressed now, and people are basically glued to their phones.
People aren’t really in the moment anymore. A lot of people can’t just go and sit with someone in a coffee shop, give them eye contact, and enjoy the richness of a conversation. Some people just stare at their phone obsessively and that’s their biggest source of connection.
It feels like emotions are becoming sort of a narrow road and dead because people aren’t really connecting and communicating fully. We’ve evolved to be around other people, to connect with them, and to socialise with them but I feel like society is moulding people to become more antisocial in a way. That especially affects young people because they have grown up with this dynamic. They don’t really know any different.
I see it at social functions as well. I was at a christening the other week and I could see teenagers constantly on Snapchat or Instagram videos. One minute they are sitting at a table but the next they’re dancing into their phones, and as soon as the camera stops it’s back to reality. It’s like being a character in a film, putting on this show. Happiness becomes ‘likes’ and how you’re perceived by other people. That’s all that matters – people seeing you on a screen but not the people in front of you.
It all becomes about how people perceive you and looking cool. It could be like an Instagram post at a cool coffee shop with flowers in the background or whatever. That’s more important than everything going on around you.
What would you say are your personal approaches? What kind of therapist are you?
I’m trained in Person-Centred therapy. It was invented by a psychologist called Carl Rogers and it’s based on empathy; unconditional positive regard, which is unconditional acceptance of the person; and congruence, which is realness or genuineness. In other types of therapy, you might get a therapist who just nods along or doesn’t really say anything but in this type of therapy you are just yourself. You bring your personality to the room, so when someone says something to you you give a genuine response about how you feel or how they come across to you. It’s based mainly on that relationship between you both.
As you’re developing a relationship that aims to be connected through giving each other eye contact or communicating at a deep level by being honest and open, this helps the client because it teaches them basically how to do that in their own life. The more they share with you and the more they feel comfortable with you, they will get the urge to do that always.
Someone might come to you and they find it hard to talk about their real feelings so they put on a mask and say, “Yeah, I’m fine! I’m great!” and joke around, but really they’re anxious and unhappy. The more they reveal to you – those true feelings – the more comfortable and able they will be to reveal their true feelings to those around them.
Person-Centred therapy is my specialist approach, but really I try to tailor therapy to each client. It doesn’t so much matter what the person has come in with, whether it’s anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or whatever. The way that I treat them is based on how they are as an individual. It’s not so much about the causes of distress but it’s more about in the moment and what they’re saying. As everyone is so different, it’s basically taking the words of what they say and the process of how it’s happening and how it. makes them feel. It’s revealing them as a full person and taking them in as a full person.
What do you think your strengths are as a practitioner?
Clients always tell me, pretty much from the get go, that they feel so comfortable because most people come in with a lot of anxiety. It’s scary to have therapy for the first time. A lot of people rehearse what they will say because it’s so nerve wracking, and I’ve been there myself. I’ve had therapy and it’s so nerve wracking the first time to think that this stranger who I’ve just seen a picture of and know nothing about will be sat there listening to me being raw and exposed. Usually this is stuff they’ve never said to anyone else.
My clients will say, “I really feel like you’ve got your full attention and focus on me.” That’s so obvious to me and it’s so nice to have that dedicated time and attention. They also tell me that they like how real I am. Sometimes I’ll disclose things when appropriate about myself, and that’s something that really develops trust as well.
I think I’m quite a visual person, so we’ll use imagery and visualisations to explore how things look as well as how things are put into words. A lot of my clients will use metaphors and then I’ll use visual metaphors as well. We really explore things in detail and they tell me that they love that.
It feels quite creative and I think that’s why I love it. I’ve always wanted a creative job and to help people in some way, and it just gives me that perfect blend of purpose and feeling like I’m using what I’ve got and making people really good and comfortable.
If a young person was nervous about starting therapy, what would you say to them?
I would usually say to them in the session that I’ve been there and I really get how nerve wracking it is for them. I really appreciate how hard it is for them to be there and how uncomfortable it is. I would say that they’re making a really brave step just by coming in.
Charlotte is a BACP member counsellor helping her clients to gain clarity and insight into how they think and feel.
Her approach helps individuals to heal and grow, to be kinder to themselves, to let go of old habits and live life more fully, with a greater sense of meaning, connection and purpose. "I am on your side, and I will do my very best to help you."
All of our therapists are CRB checked. Scroll below to read more about Charlotte!
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I’m an expert in mens mental health
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Get to know Alan in our Q & A below!
What are your main hobbies?
I play guitar and sing in a band! We play older rock stuff like Led Zeppelin through to stuff like The White Stripes.
I’m also into meditation which is one of the ways I stay well for myself. It helps to ground and centre me.
What kind of television, films, and music do you enjoy?
I’m obsessed with reading Irvin Yalom’s stuff. I’d like to read more novels because nearly everything I read is to do with counselling or therapy and mental health!
I used to be into horror films. But now I like things that are optimistic and make you think.
What do you do to stay well?
I enjoy spending time in nature – it’s really cool where I live because we’ve got a few parks and things.
I also like exercising and weight training. I’ve got a little garage gym set up with weights. I’ve been a bit lazy lately, but I usually train three or four times a week. It’s good for the head.
What would you say are the main issues people are facing today?
I think life can be quite hard for people at the moment. There’s a lot of pressure to try to get on in life; to get an education, to get a job, and decide what they want to do with their lives. I think it’s harder sometimes for young people now than it was for previous generations, and there’s a lot of pressure on people.
One of the benefits is people these days are being offered more support around their mental health. It’s no longer something that’s just pushed under the carpet and buried. People are no longer being expected to just get on with things and put up a front. I think places like The Mind Map are making it more accessible for people to talk about how they feel.
How do you think therapy can help?
I think therapy gives people an opportunity to get to know themselves; to figure out who they are and who they want to be in a safe space where they don’t feel the expectations of parents or family members. They don’t feel judged or like they’re burdening their partner or parents.
They can just be real and say it as it is with somebody that is a professional and qualified, but who is also a human being who wants to listen to them and support them – just a sounding board really. Who wouldn’t benefit from having somebody just to sound off with and explore things with?
What would you say are your personal approaches? What kind of therapist are you?
My original training is Person-Centred therapy. I’m also really into existential therapy.
I have a lot of experience in addiction therapy as well, including with young people dealing with addictions. I think addiction is often a way to escape from things. I think it might reflect on the pressures on young people and trying to escape from life that feels difficult or stressful. It’s also not just drug addiction – there’s technology addictions and even gambling.
I’m getting a lot of people coming through at the moment with gambling issues. As I’ve worked in rehabs in the past, I’m getting a lot of those clients coming through who want to try and overcome these addictions and build a life they don’t need to escape from.
What do you think your strengths are as a practitioner?
I think people tell me that I have a very calming nature. They just get a sense that I’m a genuine person who really wants to listen and can make them feel heard, understood, and like I’m on their side. It gives them a safe place to figure themselves out, figure out what they want to do, and find some support and encouragement from someone who can walk alongside them if they want to make those changes in their lives.
If someone was nervous about starting therapy, what would you say to them?
Everyone feels nervous when they come for therapy. I do say to clients that that’s a very normal reaction. It takes a lot of courage to come and sit with a stranger and start to spill the beans on your deepest, darkest thoughts and feelings.
Most therapists have been through their own shit or their own mental health struggles and have been through therapy themselves. You have to go through therapy as part of your training, so I always say to clients that I know what it feels like because I’ve sat across in the other seat.
I would also reassure them that it’s at their pace. You don’t have to jump in straight away to the most difficult thing – just start talking and opening up. It’s my job to make them feel safe and comfy. Knowing what to expect can help too.
Are you looking for compassionate counselling from someone who has been there?
Alan provides relaxed, non directive sessions, full of empathy and compassion, and free of judgement.
He uses his own lived-experience of mental health issues and recovery to further enhance his approach.
Alan successfully treats issues including anxiety, depression, OCD and self esteem. He is one of the counsellors currently seeing students at our client, the University of Liverpool.
He has a special interest in mens mental health, and is trained in mindfulness and meditation.
Fully accredited by the BACP Alan is a highly skilled counsellor who will offer gentle encouragement as you embark on your therapeutic journey.
All of our therapists are CRB checked. Scroll below to read more about Alan!
Zuzana is an experienced counsellor, working with a variety of issues including low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, relationships, trauma, and sexuality.
Zuzanah offers an opportunity to explore your thoughts and feelings, free from judgement,
She'll help you find ways to manage your struggles, as you embark upon a journey of healing and growth.
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My counselling is founded upon mutual respect and empathy
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Amy's practice is founded upon mutual respect and empathy. She encourages her clients to relax and open up free from judgement and expectation.
Depending on your needs, Amy can adjust her therapeutic techniques, and offers a variety of approaches, from the creative to the more practical.
She says: "Around a quarter of people have accessed counselling at least once in their life and that is increasing with more mental health awareness. People choose counselling for all kinds of reasons throughout different stages of their life. I'm able to meet you at whatever stage in life you are at."
Amy is fully accredited by the BACP, and will guide and support you as you explore your struggles, and unravel your thoughts, in a warm and caring atmosphere.
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I provide a safe, therapeutic environment for you to explore difficult emotions, thoughts or behaviours
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With a Masters in Counselling and Psychotherapy, Kerry merges a variety of therapeutic techniques to offer each of her clients the best individual experience.
She provides a safe environment for you to explore any difficult emotions, thoughts or behaviours.
With an approach grounded in mutual trust and respect, Kerry can walk alongside you as you explore your struggles, offering guidance and encouragement where appropriate.
Kerry offers support across a wide range of issues, for short or long term and is fully accredited by the BACP.
She offers both short and long term therapy, and can also offer a variety of therapeutic approaches.
Kerry has worked with many issues, including: depression, anxiety, stress, self-harm and phobias. .
Tess is a trainee counsellor, studying for a Masters in Counselling and Psychotherapy at Liverpool John Moores University.
To enquire about Tess' availability contact info@themindmap.co.uk.
Tess may be able to see you if:
- You are 18 years and over
- Experiencing a non-urgent common mental health condition
Unfortunately Tess can't see:
- People experiencing a severe mental illness to the extent that primary mental health services are deemed inappropriate.
- Currently under the care of a secondary mental health service
- Currently receiving psychological services elsewhere
- Those rated as high risk or acute/immediate risk when applying the risk assessment
- Young persons under the age of 18 years.
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I’m passionate about counselling, coaching and mentoring people
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Smita is keen to mentor people who wish to bring positivity and encouragement to their lives.
With a great deal of experience, Smita is confident in working with all clients, from all backgrounds and cultures.
Working with Smita may also be a good choice for those looking for more solution focused therapy.
A fully verified member of the BPS, she offers empathic, confidential, ethical counselling, supported by her varied skillset and lived experience both, personally and professionally.
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I’m passionate about supporting people.
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Digna is a warm and empathic counsellor. She is passionate about helping her clients to heal, build awareness, and gain a new perspective on their lives.
Offering empathy and care, in a relaxed environment, Digna will offer gentle guidance as you embark upon your journey of personal growth.
She uses a variety of therapeutic techniques, alongside her own personal experience, to provide comprehensive emotional support.
Digna is registered by the BACP.
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Explore issues in a safe, warm, and non-judgemental environment.
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Andy is a skilled counsellor, who believes in experiencing the therapeutic process in your own way, at your own pace. Listening carefully to your issues Andy will support you throughout your personal journey.
He is also trained in mindfulness which is a powerful coping tool, and he has an open and warm approach.
No issue is off limits for Andy. He understands that choosing a counsellor can be a difficult task, and he welcomes any questions you may have before your session.
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My approach is warm, non-judgemental and accepting.
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Carl is a BACP registered counsellor and psychotherapist based in Liverpool, working online and on the telephone.
He can work with clients on a long-term or short- term basis; dependant on preference.
Carl ensures his work as a therapist facilitates an environment that is warm, non-judgemental and accepting, whilst also being steeped in empathy. His work is always strictly confidential.
His approach to therapy is one that is flexible and person-centred, ensuring that your needs and experiences are the focus of our work together. He have worked in a number of settings from educational working with teenagers to working with males with complex trauma and sexual trauma.