Find your therapist

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
During my professional training, over a 6 year period, I obtained a Post Graduate Diploma and Masters Degree at The Gestalt Centre London, accredited by the London Metropolitan University. I am now an accredited psychotherapist by the United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP) and adhere to their code of ethics. I also have a Diploma in Supervision, completed in 2015.

Since training, I have worked within the NHS as a counsellor in GP surgeries and in a psychiatric hospital. I have worked as a psychotherapist at the Priory Hospital with individual clients and running therapy and psycho-educational groups for adults and adolescents on issues such as self-esteem, assertiveness and depression.

believe psychotherapy is essentially a creative process between therapist and client as I help you to find a new perspective on your life. Prior to my professional training, I worked as a designer and creative director within the advertising industry and have found this creative and artistic background an important resource as a psychotherapist.

My experience of working under the pressures of the commercial and corporate sectors in a number of different roles and of having traveled widely, have proved invaluable in my work with individuals and groups. This depth of life experience and cultural understanding is an important aspect of psychotherapy which demands an open and tolerant attitude towards a diversity of cultures, views and beliefs.

My interest in understanding how people think and behave has led to a number of written contributions to publications such as Psychologies magazine and the website, Big White Wall. I have also contributed to a number of articles featured in national newspapers which can be seen on the ‘Media/other projects’ page of this site. In January 2016 my work was featured in a TV programme about Facebook addiction called ‘On Friendship’.

HOW I WORK
I incorporate different techniques and theories tailored to suit the unique situation of each client or couple. These approaches include gestalt therapy, with its focus on the present; CBT (Cognitive behavioural therapy) to identify and challenge distorted thoughts and perspectives and psychodynamic therapy which examines the past and how it has shaped us. Mindfulness, visualisations, role plays and creative experiments are offered to enliven the process with experiential learning providing tools to use outside the sessions. This integrative approach enables the flexibility to work with many different issues and concerns.

I have many years of experience as a Counsellor and Hypnotherapist helping clients overcome various deep-seated issues. It is the individual’s choice as to whether they need my help through a variety of different counselling skills or even split the session into a combination of Counselling and Hypnotherapy.

As a member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) I adhere to their standards and ethics, offering both Counselling and Hypnotherapy clients a safe, confidential and non-judgemental environment to explore their issues.

All clients are treated with respect, no problem is too big or too small. I will work with you at your own pace and help you find the solutions that will work best for you. I am able to offer appointments to suit you daytime or evenings.

Counselling has the potential to positively change your life. Finding the right counsellor is most important. Making the first step can be difficult. I offer 15 minutes consultation free of charge to help you with your search to find the right professional.

I have 15 years of experience working with; anxiety, depression, stress, relationship difficulties, trauma, eating disorders, and addiction. I provide a safe space where you can explore your difficulties, identify obstacles, find tools, and resources to move forward and live a more satisfying life.

With support, you will not only get through difficult times successfully but use them as a stepping stone to advance in your journey of personal growth 

I provide online sessions for quite some time, my clients say it works just as well ‘you forget there is a camera between us’

Hello. My name is Anna and the thing I love most about counselling is the incredible, diverse mix of people that I am lucky enough to work with.

I work in a Person Centred way which means I hounour the pace of each client and work to their requirements. I make it my aim to understand exactly how things are for each person in order to validate their feelings and experiences and to lessen their pain with a view to working towards a more contented way of being.

I’m experienced in working with both adults and school age pupils and when I’m not working from home, I work one day a week at a secondary school.

Please feel free to get in touch and I will do everything I can to make your counselling experience enriching and empowering in equal measure.

With the outbreak of Corona Disease i am now offering support via Telephone and internet versions of face to face therapy, supporting people affected by the condition or illnesses that could be regarded as high risk during this tough period.

Life can sometimes be so complex and difficult that we do not always feel able to sort it out and get back to feeling “normal again”.

The complexity of life and the hardships that some people have to endure has always fascinated me, and having experienced many personal losses and life changing events myself, my passion has grown, and I would like the opportunity to “make a difference” and support those when it is most needed.

Working in my current work environments I understand how the demands of daily life and major life events such as a Bereavement, Domestic Violence, Physical/Sexual abuse, or divorce can leave us feeling overwhelmed, confused or even just sad.

I also have experience of supporting Family affected by MND, and emotional support around the journey they will be going through.

My role as your Counsellor is to help you to explore the feelings and emotions that are often related to your current/past life experiences. I offer you the opportunity to reflect on what is happening in your world and for me to support you therapeutically to explore alternative ways of copings and dealing with emotive issues, that impact negatively on your life and to family and friends that are dear to you..

I appreciate how difficult it can be to discuss personal problems or even where or how to begin, but I offer a safe place to express your feelings and concerns, listen to you without judgement, and give you the time and safety to explore your emotional concerns, and support you through your decision making process.

Free yourself from Stress, Anxiety and Depression the natural way. Learn how to get on track and stay on track with a solution focused toolkit for life! I can help you resolve mental health issues, overcome life challenges and achieve your goals.

I have been practising a variety of Holistic and Mental Health Therapies for more than twenty years.

Specialist in Online Therapy – Skype, Zoom or easy access video link (no software needed).

Telephone consultations are also available.

IT’S SO SIMPLE

My Online Clinic is open Monday to Friday.

Choose a time convenient for you.

Book a session by clicking the Inquire Talk link. 

You’ll receive a confirmation email.

You don’t need to leave your own home. 

At the appointment time, just click the link we email you and you’re in!

HOW IT WORKS

The first session is an Initial Consultation, where I will take notes that include what issues or challenges are being experienced and what goals you’d like to achieve along with some medical details and other relevant information.  I will then explain how the brain works and how these issues arise and, most importantly, what can be done. You will very quickly learn how you can get on track and stay on track. Ongoing sessions are a combination of talking therapies, relaxation and guided visualisation according to your needs and choices.

 WHAT I DO

According to your needs and wishes, I offer an integrative programme of

– Counselling

– Advanced Medical Hypnotherapy

– Clinical Psychotherapy

– SFBT (Solution Focused Brief Therapy)

– CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy)

– NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming)

– Solution Focused Mindfulness

– The latest research-based and clinically-proven neuroscience

 ISSUES TREATED INCLUDE

– Stress

– Anxiety

– Depression

– Relaxation

– Smoking Cessation

– Weight Control

– Anorexia, Bulimia and Eating Disorders

– IBS and Digestion Problems

– Grief and Bereavement

– Alzheimer’s and Dementia

– MCI (Mild Cognitive Impairment)

– Concentration and Memory

– Confidence and Self Esteem

– Public Speaking

– Motivation and Inspiration

– Sport Performance

– Stage and Screen Performance

– Academic Performance

– Writing and Creative Block

– Migraines and Headaches

– Pain Management

– Fibromyalgia Syndrome

– Fatigue and Exhaustion

– Blood Pressure

– Workplace Stress

– Insomnia and Sleep Issues

– Self Esteem

– Child and Teen Issues

– Student and Exam Stress

– Phobias and Fears

– Driving Anxiety

– OCD and Compulsions

– Obsessive Thinking and Paranoia

– Panic Attacks and Nerves

– Nightmares and Flashbacks

– PTSD and Other Trauma

– Eczema, Psoriasis and Skin Issues

– Anger Management

– Road Rage

– Addictions and Detox

– Relationship Difficulties

– Sexual Problems

– Fertility, Pregnancy and Childbirth Solution Focused Hypnobirthing

– Post Natal Depression

– Menopause and Perimenopause Symptoms

– Post Operation Recovery

– Cancer (Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy Support)

– Cancer (Palliative Care)

– Life Coaching and Manifestation

– Many other issues and challenges

I am professionally registered with:

– Welldoing (NHS Choices)

– CNHC (Complementary and Natural healthcare Council

– UK Government Professional Standards Authority Accredited Register

– NCH (National Council Hypnotherapy)

– AfSFH (Association for Solution Focused Hypnotherapy)

I am a humanistic therapeutic counsellor and I offer long and short-term therapy.

I have always been passionate about helping people and helping them reconnect with their true self. I decided to change my career and become a counsellor after my positive experience in therapy as a client. I believe that self-awareness is the foundation for personal growth and positive life changes.

I am a person centred therapist which means I believe you are the expert in your own life. I work to help you understand yourself better and make decisions based on your own unique experience.

My experience covers a variety of addiction, including drugs and alcohol,  I am trauma informed, ASSIST trained and in the process of further training to allow me to work with children and young people.

I am passionate in taking the stigma and taboo away from mental health and therapy.  I strive to make therapy as accessible as possible and to ensure that my clients can get the support they need.  I acknowledge that many clients come to therapy when they are worried, stressed, overwhelmed and some times frightened.  I work to improve mental well being and resilience and to work with clients to support them to feel that they can cope with issues and concerns and can work towards their goals at their own personal pace.

I work well with clients who find it difficult to talk about how they feel, or ask for what they need.  I help clients to build self esteem, be more self compassionate and build the tools they need to maintain mental wellness and resilience.

Welcome to my counselling service…

I am a Person-Centred therapist but I also use CBT and Solution Focus approach when required.
I have a broad range of adult and young people’s clients covering a range of issues including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, personality disorders, and relational issues. I can work with issues that relate to trauma, PTSD, loss, anger management, addiction, eating disorder, social anxiety, OCD, and substance misuse.
I can say I am passionate about counselling, which helps to empower clients, enabling them to live fulfilling lives.

I hold a BA (Hons) Degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy and MSc in Psychology. I am also a life and Health and Wellness coach.

If you are thinking about making some changes in your life, and if you feel you need a helping hand, I can help you find a way through. I know it’s a cliché but you really have made the first step already. Take a few minutes to read a little more, and if you think I can help, just let me know.

I have over 30 years experience within Addiction /Dependencies, and related fields, working with a wide variety of clients from diverse backgrounds and cultures.  I have developed and managed an integrated Hypnotherapy approach which includes aspects of Solution Focus and Motivational models, and elements of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. In addition to Alcohol and Drug problems, many of my clients have been seeking help for Anxiety and Stress, Relationship difficulties, Phobias, Confidence issues, and Smoking Cessation.

All that might sound a bit complicated but, to be honest, it can be quite simple really. We talk things over for a bit, look at the changes you want to make, decide between us if Hypnotherapy might help, and we take it from there. There is no great mystery to Hypnotherapy. Nothing to be afraid of. No one can make you do anything you don’t want to do.  TV stunts are nothing to do with Hypnotherapy. In all these years I’ve never seen anyone cluck like a chicken but I’ve seen plenty make a positive difference in their life.

Please note that all sessions are via Zoom until further notice.

We are living in challenging times where fear, uncertainty and confusion are commonplace.

Many people I consult with are worried about not fitting in rather than what makes them unique and special. As well as what unites and connects them to others.

It’s easy to become used to over-relying on what others want from us, whilst losing sight of who we really are.

We’ve not been encouraged in many of our communities and establishments to practice self-inquiry and reflection. This is not good for personal autonomy or building courage or confidence to be ourselves.

It’s easy for us to lose touch with how we feel, and be vulnerable to manipulation by others. Perhaps because we are afraid of what others might think of us if we dare to express our differences.

Thankfully coming to counselling and coaching can be a way of learning to manage and cope with uncertainty and the fear of rejection. Helping us to get back in touch with what is important to us, and reconnect with our true feelings and senses.

From here we can grow both mentally and physically stronger and more confident of who we are, and what is right for us and our loved ones.

I always want my work to be first and foremost about being of service to others.

I’ve had an awareness for many years that much of the suffering and terrible things that happen in the world are fundamentally unnecessary and wrong. And that collectively we can help each other to grow stronger and more resourceful individuals and communities.

Self-development is not only an investment in ourselves, but it’s also an investment in society. In that, we are saying we are committed to becoming a better version of ourselves each day for the benefit of our community.

Maybe now is the perfect time to invest in yourself? More and more people are seeking to become more self-actualizing and to reach their true potential.

What would you like to understand better, react differently to, grow stronger in, or be more accepting of?

One of the ways we can do this is by, when possible, making use of the challenges and adversity we face in seeing them as opportunities to grow rather than negativity. Of course, this is not always easy, and we may need help along the way.

I have found through activities like ‘Wim Hof method’ cold therapy training, that doesn’t kill us can most definitely can make us stronger.

If we take sensible strategic risks and practice relaxing into our fight-flight responses, we can develop the resilience we need through gentle repetitive exposure to what we find challenging. This can help us to re-write our responses.

As well as reducing the need to over-rely on medication to function, which also risks putting harmful toxins into our bodies as well as having potentially negative side effects including addiction.

It’s far better to get back in touch with our true nature the way many of our ancestors were.

I am a fully qualified Integrative therapist with over 20yrs experience of a variety of client issues. I believe that ‘no problem is insurmountable’, there is always a way forwards. All of us need help at one time or another, allow me to help you to help yourself. Get in touch today.

I have experience of a wide variety of client issues. Addiction, Body Dysmorphia, Family Issues, Adolescents. Couples counselling.

The therapeutic relationship is paramount to life transition, this is why a ‘good fit’ with your therapist is essential. Please feel free to call prior to booking for a confidential discussion to see if you would like my assistance in moving forwards.

No Problem is Insurmountable.

My name is Alva Spencer, I am the director of dearalva the Psychological therapy and counselling service. I am currently based in the ​​​​Greater Manchester area as a therapist, delivering face to face sessions, video calls and private phone calls.

I completed my Clinical and Pastoral Counselling Skills Level 6 course at Glasgow Caledonian University in 2007. I am also registered member of the BACP.​​​​​​​​​
 

​

Welcome to my profile. My number one aim, passion and priority is to make a positive difference to your life. For me, counselling is a process that supports, empowers and facilitates well-being. A space that you can trust with no judgement or criticism for you to feel free to express and explore what’s important to you. I offer an empathic nurturing relationship so that you are supported to achieve your goals, whether it would be personal development and self-actualisation or to overcome distressing/traumatic events, thoughts or feelings. Attentively, I actively listen to you so I understand deeply, you and your lived experiences. I highly value your internal natural tendency for growth and development which is important to help resolve many issues such as depression and anxiety. Ultimately, I work in a way that is tailored and bespoke to you. Therefore my practice highly respects and welcomes your autonomy.

I suffer from a neuromuscular condition called SMA type II. I believe that my disability has allowed me to connect deeply with clients who have experienced injustice, judgment, and oppression in their lives. Also, to empathise with clients who have experience of being subjected to negative attitudes or stereotyping from others or society.

The most important thing to me is that you are comfortable when you are talking about personal and sensitive topics so that you are able to share without any felt consequences or regrets. If you feel that you would like to contact me to arrange a session then please do not hesitate to get in touch and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

I have full indemnity insurance and have a current valid DBS enhanced certificate. (Used to be known as CRB check)

I offer online counselling to children, young adults, adults and older adults.

I offer telephone counselling to children, young adults, adults and older adults.

I do not currently offer face to face counselling.

I am a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist with extensive NHS experience. I am the Mental Health Lead for the Cambridge Medical Academy (Cambridge University), where I train a global network of 800+ doctors and nurses in mental health. My research on improving access to mental health has been published internationally. I lecture at Southampton University teaching the Phd and MSc Psychology students. I provide in depth assessment and treatment for a range of psychological and emotional problems.

During my career, I have gained significant experience and supporting people to become psychologically and emotionally well again. Many of the patients I have supported have required specialist support with chronic anxiety and depression, low self-esteem, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, addiction and physical and psychological pain. I have in-depth clinical knowledge of how to manage complex psychological conditions.

My first degree in Anthropology and MSc in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy sit as a foundation for all of my professional work. This has included the clinical delivery and management of services for young people, troubled families and secondary care psychotherapy (complex comorbidity and Personality Disorders).

I am a BACP UK registered Counsellor with a wealth of experience in counselling, mental health & well-being, self development and spirituality. I am also a certified Level 5 Coach, a passionate restorative yoga teacher, author of ‘Self Love Shift’, and the creator of ‘Self Love Therapy’.
Being an Integrative counsellor means that I work holistically, in a way that suits your needs, focussing on the here and now, helping you to make sense of your past and individual experiences.
I work with both men and women and currently offer sessions via Zoom, Skype or on the telephone. 

I am a qualified Psychotherapist counsellor who practices with a Humanistic & Integrative approach. This means I will focus on the needs of you, using techniques from different approaches.

Each and everyone of us are unique and therefore I do not feel I am the expert of you and can tell you what to do, my belief is to support and guide you, with my experience to help you work through your concerns. So that you can start to feel more complete within yourself.

The first step in starting counselling can feel overwhelming, bringing past thoughts to the surface and stirring up feelings of being judged, neglect, not trusting the other. My attitude is to value you for doing the best you can. It can be tough for us at times. Let us accept us for who and how we are right now at this moment.

I have personal experiences around being judged, mental health as well as trauma, so please do not feel you are alone. Once we allow ourselves to sit with the uncomfortable feelings, we will begin to flourish.

Peter Doyle – Psychotherapist & Counsellor BACP (Accred)
About Me

I am an experienced counsellor and psychotherapist. I help clients work through depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, stress, work related problems, bereavement, spending/debt,addiction,and many other problems that we are faced with in life.

I have gained extensive hands-on experience with my work in Psychiatric hospitals, Prisons, the community, and my own private practice.

I am currently working at a Psychiatric Hospital where I do individual therapy, and group work with individuals experiencing Depression, Anxiety, and Personality disorders.

I also run a successful private Practice in North London.

I offer a safe and confidential environment, where together we can work through any concerns you may be facing, and to help you gain more insight and understanding as to the cause of your problems.
Qualifications
Diploma in Psychodynamic Therapy, BACP (Accred)

National Counsellor Accreditation Certificate (NCAC FDAP -Federation of Drug & Alcohol Professionals

Foundations Certificate in Group Analysis, (IGA) Institute of Group Analysis

Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you would like to arrange to have therapy, or even if you just want to have a chat to discuss whether therapy is for you at this time or not (no obligations).

Free yourself from Stress, Anxiety and Depression the natural way. Learn how to get on track and stay on track with a solution focused toolkit for life! I can help you resolve mental health issues, overcome life challenges and achieve your goals.
I have been practising a variety of Holistic and Mental Health Therapies for more than 20 years.
Specialist in Online Therapy – Skype, Zoom or easy access video link (no software needed).
Telephone consultations also available.
 
IT’S SO SIMPLE
My Online Clinic is open Monday to Friday.
Choose a time convenient for you.
Book a session by clicking the Inquire Talk link.
You’ll receive a confirmation email.
You don’t need to leave your own home.
At the appointment time, just click the link we email and you’re in!
 
HOW IT WORKS
The first session is an Initial Consultation, where I will take notes that include what issues or challenges are being experienced and what goals you’d like to achieve along with some medical details and other relevant information. I will then explain how the brain works and how these issues arise and, most importantly, what can be done. You will very quickly learn how you can get on track and stay on track. Ongoing sessions are a combination of talking therapies, relaxation and guided visualisation according to your needs and choices.
 
WHAT I DO
According to your needs and wishes, I offer an integrative programme of
– Counselling
– Advanced Medical Hypnotherapy
– Clinical Psychotherapy
– SFBT (Solution Focused Brief Therapy)
– CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy)
– NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming)
– Solution Focused Mindfulness
– The latest research-based and clinically-proven Neuroscience
 
ISSUES TREATED INCLUDE
– Stress
– Anxiety
– Depression
– Relaxation
– Smoking Cessation
– Weight Control
– Anorexia, Bulimia and Eating Disorders
– IBS and Digestion Problems
– Grief and Bereavement
– Alzheimer’s and Dementia
– MCI (Mild Cognitive Impairment)
– Concentration and Memory
– Confidence and Self Esteem
– Public Speaking
– Motivation and Inspiration
– Sport Performance
– Stage and Screen Performance
– Academic Performance
– Writing and Creative Block
– Migraines and Headaches
– Pain Management
– Fibromyalgia Syndrome
– Fatigue and Exhaustion
– Blood Pressure
– Workplace Stress
– Insomnia and Sleep Issues
– Self Esteem
– Child and Teen Issues
– Student & Exam Stress
– Phobias & Fears
– Driving Anxiety
– OCD and Compulsions
– Obsessive Thinking and Paranoia
– Panic Attacks and Nerves
– Nightmares and Flashbacks
– PTSD and Other Trauma
– Eczema, Psoriasis and Skin Issues
– Anger Management
– Road Rage
– Addictions and Detox
– Relationship Difficulties
– Sexual Problems
– Fertility, Pregnancy and Childbirth Solution Focused Hypnobirthing
– Post Natal Depression
– Menopause and Perimenopause Symptoms
– Post Operation Recovery
– Cancer (Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy Support)
– Cancer (Palliative Care)
– Life Coaching and Manifestation
– Many other issues and challenges
 
ABOUT ME
– Co-Founder and Director of Alchemy Hypnotherapy
– Consultant Medical Hypnotherapist and Clinical Solution Focused Psychotherapist
– Recognised by NHS Choices, The BMA (British Medical Association), The BPS (British Psychological Society) and The Professional Standards Authority
– Trained at The Clifton Practice with the eminent David Newton and Susan Rodrigues
– Guest speaker with David Newton at The National Council of Hypnotherapy (NCH) Annual Conference 2018
– Co-Founder / Director of The Penarth Practice
– Co-founder / Director of Lightbulb Solutions Group (Sport Performance, Education, Training and Transformation: Presentations, Speaking and Seminars)
– Medical Hypnotherapy for Cancer Patients, Marie Curie
– Winner of Zokit Business Awards (2017) for “Outstanding Contribution to Community”
– Special Commendation from Cancer Research Wales
– Reiki Master / Quantum Healing Master / Other Holistic Therapies
– Marketing, PR, Communications and Event Consultant (Quantum Communications)
– Author, Journalist and Broadcaster (Worldshift Media)
– Teacher (Schools, Neath College, Cardiff University, Brunel University)
– Founder, Fundraiser, Trustee (Tsunami Relief, Ecoshelter)
– Winner of “Intelligent Optimist of the Year” (ODE Magazine)
 
I am professionally registered with
– Welldoing (NHS Choices)
– CNHC (Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council)
– UK Government Professional Standards Authority Accredited Register
– NCH (National Council for Hypnotherapy)
– AfSFH (Association for Solution Focused Hypnotherapy)