Welcome to GB Counselling Services
Face to face sessions in the Poole and Bournemouth area.
My name is Gillian Brake, I am a counsellor providing short-and long-term therapy to adults.
About Me
I am particularly passionate about enabling and supporting people to make changes and empower them in their choices. Currently I am working as a counsellor with a local charity that supports those who have experienced sexual trauma. Through this work I offer psychoeducation and use a trauma model to ensure a safe and phased approach.
I help those who are at a crossroads in their life or who are recognising they are feeling overwhelmed or lost. We can all have times when there is a sense of heaviness and a feeling of being stuck.
I gained an Advanced Diploma in Integrative Counselling (Iron Mill) and then pursued an MA in Counselling and Psychotherapy in Practice. I remain committed to engage in meaningful Continued Professional Development especially where there can be a direct impact on my work of supporting others.
Working With Me
My role as a counsellor is to offer a confidential space for you to consider any issues that are troubling you. As an integrative therapist I will draw upon different theories but will keep you at the centre as I believe that you are a unique individual who knows yourself best. I will sit alongside you without judgement and use an empathic approach. Through our time together we will begin to explore what is happening and what you would like to change. Counselling will not give you solutions but will enable you to move forward in your own choices.
I offer a chance to reflect on the difficulties or problems you are experiencing in a safe and confidential environment, with someone from outside your day-to-day life.
Together we can explore your situation in a way that leads to fresh perspectives – and perhaps a new understanding of yourself. Therapy isn’t about giving you solutions or advice, but empowering you to make your own changes.
I work with people from all walks of life and backgrounds, coming to me with a diverse range of problems. As a fully-qualified therapist I am a member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy, and abide by their code of ethics.
Speak in Confidence
Are you feeling stuck in your past and it’s impacting you daily? Finding a space where you can speak in confidence is so very important. Sometimes our family and friends don’t know what to say to help us. Seeking out a professional therapist is a courageous first step to feeling better.
A problem shared
Are you feeling lost in your thoughts? The idea of talking to someone you do not know may seem quite scary. Speaking to a counsellor may feel unfamiliar; however, having a place away from day to day concerns may offer a fresh perspective. Talking through thoughts and feelings can enable you to see a way forward.
A new path
Are you feeling overwhelmed and have anxieties? By using different techniques life’s sometimes bumpy road can be made a bit smoother. Focusing on yourself and spending time with a professional counsellor can help to focus on what is important to you. I can help you move forward and take steps to feeling better.
What issues can therapy help with?
People come to me for help a wide range of issues. Here are a few of the more common difficulties that can be supported through therapy:
Depression
Problems with confidence or self-esteem
Anger management
Issues relating to sexuality
Difficulties at work or in retirement
Problems with family or school life
Feelings of stress or anxiety
Panic attacks
Relationship problems
Grief, loss or bereavement
Trauma and post-traumatic stress
Abuse
Frequently Asked Questions
Both Counselling and psychotherapy are broad terms for talking therapies. Counselling can be good for issues that may be resolved within a shorter time period. Psychotherapy may concern issues that consider how the past can impact on a person’s life and this generally will be longer and deeper work.
Confidentiality is an important aspect of seeing a professional counsellor. What is discussed in sessions is private. There are circumstances where a counsellor may refer to an outside agency; if there is a risk to self or others or where there is a requirement by law. Where possible this will always be discussed with you prior to any referral.
This will be different for each person. Sometimes a few sessions can help to clear an issue and see a way forward. Other times it may seem like open ended therapy may be beneficial. As part of our initial session we will work together to agree the amount of sessions you may be looking to attend. We will review together regularly and agree adjustments accordingly.
I aim to offer you an initial assessment session within a week or two. Following this we will arrange to meet at the same time each week. Availability can be discussed in our initial phone call.
My location
I provide face to face sessions in the Poole and Bournemouth area. Exact location will be provided on enquiry.
Counselling rooms are conveniently placed with good transport links and nearby parking.
Fees & availability
Sessions last for 50 minutes and usually take place on a weekly basis; we can discuss a plan when we meet. Each session will cost £50.
I have convenient daytime and some early evening appointments. I do have limited spaces for reduced fees available for trainee counsellors.
I require 48 hours’ notice if you wish to cancel an appointment otherwise you will need to pay for the missed sessions.
I accept payment in cash, by cheque or by bank transfer.
Get in touch
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions about how therapy works, or to arrange an initial assessment appointment. This enables us to discuss the reasons you are thinking of coming to therapy, whether it could be helpful for you and whether I am the right therapist to help.
You can also call me on 07592445067 if you would prefer to leave a message or speak to me first. I am happy to discuss any queries or questions you may have prior to arranging an initial appointment.
All enquires are usually answered within 24 hours, and all contact is strictly confidential and uses secure phone and email services.
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