Craig James Counselling
Person-centred Counselling IN Harrogate & Online
Welcome, and thank you for visiting Craig James Counselling. My name is Craig and I am a counsellor providing both short- and long-term therapy to adult individuals in Harrogate & Online.
About me
I am a person-centred counsellor. This means that you are at the heart of the work we will do together, and that the sessions will move at whatever pace suits you.
I am also a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. This is a governing body, and I work within the confines of their ethical framework.
I consider myself warm, relatable and easy to talk to, as this is what clients often tell me when I ask how they have found working with me during the review. The review is something which is conducted every five session or so, in order to ascertain how the counselling experience has been for you so far, whether you feel you have met any goals that you might have set for yourself before starting working with me, or if anything has come up during the sessions that you might like to explore further. This is also an opportunity to discuss your thoughts so far as the continuation of your counselling is concerned.
I have previous experience of working with Just’B’, a charity which specialises in bereavement. This included training in understanding and working with clients with addiction issues, bereavement support, domestic abuse awareness, safeguarding children and adults, and suicide awareness.
Additionally, I have worked with Pegasus Men’s Well-being. I chose to work here as men’s well-being is something that I have experienced, both personally, and through those closest to me. I feel it is so important to promote men speaking out. And in this position I enabled them to do so.
I also worked with York Medical Group. The counselling service within this group was set up by one of the doctors because they were tired of the lack of counselling available to their patients. I felt that this was a fantastic initiative. And I am proud to say that I was a part of it.
I also currently work with the Charity MIND. Another fantastic charity that I am proud to be helping achieve their goals.
Qualifications
The Benefits of Person-Centred Counselling
I believe that person-centred counselling is suitable for helping with any issues you might have, as it provides you with a safe space in which you can explore any thoughts, or feelings, that you might be experiencing as a result of your current situation. Learning to recognise and understand our thoughts and feelings can enable us to understand ourselves and our behaviour better. Person-centred counselling is also non-directive, which means that you are free to take each session in the direction that you wish to take it. Naturally, I will be there to guide you through this exploration, offering an empathetic, understanding, and non-judgemental ear, in addition to guidance.
The Importance of Sharing Your Story
Life can be difficult. And not everyone has the support they require or someone they are happy to discuss their issues with. So, having the opportunity to 'tell your story' to an interested listener is therapeutic for all of us.
So, whether you are suffering with depression, anxiety, stress, imposter syndrome, or an issue which is unique to you, I am here, and ready to listen.
Making the time and space for yourself to engage in therapy is an act of self-kindness.
Exploring Personal Challenges and Growth
Some people have specific relationship challenges they want to explore and overcome, others might want to use the space for personal development, or to find purpose, while some might not know exactly what they want other than to generally feel better, or to understand a part of themselves that is making them feel bad.
My location
I am available to for face-to-face session at Hiive, 40 Commercial Street, Harrogate, HG1 1TZ, but I am insured to work with clients from anywhere in the world.
Therefore, I offer online sessions via Microsoft Teams for anyone who can not make it to Harrogate.
Sessions & Fees
In your first session I will do an initial assessment. This is an opportunity for you to share with me what has brought you to counselling, and for you to decide if you feel that I am the right counsellor for you. At this stage there is no obligation to continue your therapy with me. However, should you choose to continue with me, then each session will last fifty minutes at a cost of £55. I may be able to refer you to another counsellor should you decide that would be preferable.
The sessions will be predominantly person-centred therapy. However, I may incorporate elements of cognitive behavioural therapy, or psychoanalysis, should it become apparent that these approaches would be beneficial for you. I mention this as we are all individuals, with our own ways of processing. Therefore, I feel there is a need to tailor the sessions to suit.
Get in touch
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions about how counselling works, or to arrange an initial assessment appointment. This enables us to discuss the reasons you are thinking of coming to counselling, whether it could be helpful for you and whether I am the right therapist to help.
You can also call me on 03300430662 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.