Michelle Strange MBACP (accredited)

Counselling - Frequently Asked Questions

What sort of counsellor are you?

I am a warm, empathetic and thoughtful person, who respects clients’ needs and individual agency. My work does not involve making diagnoses, using a couch, or telling you how to run your life. Most important for me is the personal interaction between client and counsellor, which can help you understand what is happening in your life and relationships, and identify resources to find a way through. 

My work is integrative and relational, with a wide training which enables me to incorporate a range of theoretical models and techniques. My original training used Clarkson’s five-strand model of the therapeutic relationship, and I have since undertaken further study of humanistic, attachment and contemporary psychotherapy theory, mindfulness-based therapy and Buddhist psychology, working with trauma and with couples. I am also a trained mindfulness meditation teacher (MBCT/MBSR), and I may offer to incorporate some practical mindfulness into our work when I think it may help.

  How can counselling help?

I believe that most people find it helpful to talk through how they feel with an experienced and trained person. The safe space of the counselling room allows you to explore what is going on for you, and to feel clearer about what you need. Counselling is collaborative work, and we look together at what might be getting in the way of what you want from your lifeu. As our work progresses we may explore how significant life events and patterns in relationships may continue to shape current events. Recognising this can open up space and choice, helping to bring about lasting changes in the way you live your life, and feel about yourself.

I would like to come for counselling with my partner/another person. How do you work with more than one client?

I work with pairs of clients who are struggling in relationship with each other, whether they a couple, family members or professional partners. My approach when working with more than one client is also integrative and relational, seeking ways for both parties to hear each another, whilst respecting individual choice and agency. Depending on what you bring, I will give examples of work that you and your partner can try together between sessions.   

I have, or am seeking a diagnosis regarding my mental health or my personality, or I am/have been under the care of secondary mental health services. Are you able to work me?

We are all individuals with individual feelings, whatever our diagnosis or mental health history. If you have or are seeking a diagnosis, or have a past history of significant mental health disturbance, I’ll be happy to explore what is bringing you to therapy at an initial meeting (see below for details).

How often will I come to counselling and for how long?

I generally meet individual clients weekly, at the same time, for 50 minute sessions, and meet couples either weekly or fortnightly. At our first meeting we will agree upon an initial number of sessions, and some time into the initial period, we will look at this again together. At that point may agree upon more sessions or move to a more open-ended basis where this feels more appropriate.

How do I set up an initial meeting?

The first step is to contact me by email. We will arrange an initial 50 minute meeting, in which you will be able to experience how I work, tell me what has brought you to therapy now, and expectations you may have. Depending on what you bring, I may suggest that we extend this discussion over two meetings. If I think that working with me may help you, I will offer you ongoing sessions. I will provide you with written terms that explain my policies on confidentiality, Data Protection, fees, holidays and cancelled appointments. If I think that your needs might be better addressed by another avenue or therapy, I will discuss options with you.  .