About
Hello, I’m Stephen Stokes.
I am an intergrative Counsellor, which means I have trained in different modalities and will tailor my services to meet your individual needs,
I have spent the last few years volunteering for a national bereavement charity and have worked with many different people face to face, on the phone and online. It is clear going forward from 2021 that we need to be as flexible as possible in our approach to offering support. I will work with you either on the phone or online using secure video software.
My Approach
I am an integrative counsellor which means I use a range of approaches with you depending on your unique needs.
I have been trained in Person Centred counselling, Gestalt Therapy and Cognitive behavioural therapy. I continue to receive training through the charity I volunteer for and have an ongoing program of Continuous Professional Development (CPD).
Person-Centred counselling is based on the ideas of Carl Rogers and focuses on the importance of the therapeutic relationship established through a congruent, warm, non-judgemental and empathic approach to the client. At its core is the belief that the client has within them the possibility to self-actualise, that is to be the best version of themselves that they can be.
Gestalt Therapy focuses on the here and now, how are you feeling emotionally and physically in this moment. You are encouraged to be present and challenge some of your core beliefs, but always in a safe and nonconfrontational way.
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is widely used in the NHS to deal with the immediate symptoms of anxiety and depression. It works by challenging your negative thought patterns and working with you to establish new coping strategies. Often in this therapy the client will be asked to do ‘homework’ between the weekly sessions.
I choose to work exclusively online & on the telephone. This enables me to work with clients across the UK and rest of the world.
Qualifications and Experience
I am a member of the National Counselling Society (NCS) I work within their Ethical Framework and abide by their Codes of Practice.
I attend monthly supervision to ensure my practice continues to be safe and ethical.
Foundation Certificate in Psychotherapy and Counselling
Bath Centre for Psychotherapy and Counselling
Advanced Diploma in Counselling Accredited by the National Counselling Society
Heartwood Centre for Counselling and Psychotherapy Training
Prior to my training I enjoyed a long and varied career in media.
What does the logo mean?.
Inspired by the Greek symbol Psi which has long been associated with mental well being, the leaves denote the innate ability within all of us to grow and achieve our potential.