Red Kite 
Counselling







Monica McLeod MBACP
Psychotherapeutic Counselling in Hertfordshire

About Me

Hello, I'm Monica, a fully qualified, Person-Centred, Psychotherapeutic Counsellor based in North Hertfordshire

You may be struggling with feelings of low self-esteem, stress, anxiety or depression; or perhaps you are experiencing personal and relationship difficulties; or be struggling to come to terms with particular life events.  It could be that you have suffered from loss or bereavement. 

I provide a safe, confidential space in which to help you to talk about and to explore personal issues. I am non-directive in my approach which means that you are able to explore your feelings in your own way and at your own pace.  

I will listen to you very carefully with empathy, warmth and understanding.  I will help you to express your feelings and what is on your mind.  In this way, a trusting therapeutic relationship will develop where there is no judgement.

I believe that within that special therapeutic relationship with a skilled and effective counsellor, you can begin to understand your feelings, situations and relationships in a new way. You will begin to find, with that support, that you will be able to understand yourself better.  You will then be able to find your own solutions for things that you previously felt were unmanageable and from that can follow healing and change.  

It is important to find a counsellor with whom you feel comfortable so please get in contact and have a conversation with me to see whether you would like to work together.

I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and work within their Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions. My BACP Register Number is: 389935. 

 I hold full professional indemnity insurance. 

 

 

Person-Centred Counselling

'Person or client-centred therapy is based on the view that everyone has the capacity and desire for personal growth and change, given the right conditions.  

Rather than being seen as the expert and directing the therapy, the counsellor offers unconditional positive regard, empathy and congruence to help you to come to terms with any negative feelings and to change and develop in your own way.'  

from the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy  (BACP)

 

 

'It is the quality of the interpersonal encounter with the client which is the most significant element in determining effectiveness' 

Carl Rogers

How I work

As a Person-Centred therapist, you will find that I am non-directive in my approach.  This means that you are able to explore your thoughts and feelings in your own way, at your own pace.  I will listen very carefully to you and help you to make sense of your concerns and feelings.  I will help you to find out what you feel is best for you. I will not offer you any advice or try to direct you in any way. 

I offer sessions both online and as well as in-person.  Choosing online enables you to be in an environment which feels familiar to you.  Of course, it is important that you are able to talk in a space which is private and where you cannot be overheard.  If you choose to meet in person, you will find me in the town centre of Hitchin, Hertfordshire. 

I understand that it is important to find a counsellor with whom you feel comfortable.  In order to help with this process, I am happy to offer a free initial telephone conversation. During this call you will be able to find out more my approach and about how I work and you may also like to tell me a little about yourself.

 

I believe that it is the quality of the counselling relationship rather than any approach or technique which creates a truly therapeutic and beneficial experience for the client.  

Confidentiality

I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy and I adhere to their Ethical Framework.  Accordingly, I receive regular clinical supervision in order to reflect on my professional practice, to maintain a high standard of work and to meet ethical standards.  

I keep electronic records of counselling sessions which are held confidentially and securely. 

There are some situations in which there are exceptions to the confidentiality of the counselling session. This happens very rarely and only for safety, ethical or legal reasons. For example: 

1. If a client were to discuss any serious intent to harm themselves or someone else. 

2. If a child, young person or vulnerable adult was at risk of harm. 

3. If a client shares information relating to an act of terrorism.

 

Privacy Notice 

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Photo Credits: Red kites by Sean Weekly