Sometimes, when we face problems, especially ones that feel overwhelming or deeply personal, we withdraw from others out of exhaustion, shame, self-doubt, fear of being judged, or loss of hope. But isolation only deepens the feeling of being alone in your struggles. Perhaps you have tried talking to your loved ones. Yet, often these conversations are met with well-meaning advice, misplaced reassurance, or even silence - leaving us feeling unheard or misunderstood. Talking to a counsellor offers a different kind of space. You don't have to go through this alone.
Hello, my name is Monique. I'm 54 years old. I've done both good and bad things in my life, and just like you, I've had doubts, fears, dilemmas, and worries. I've felt shame, guilt, and confusion.
I am an integrative counsellor, psychotherapist, and a trauma therapist. I want to hear your story. Discussing sensitive or deeply personal issues with a stranger may be a daunting prospect - I can reassure you that I genuinely care about my clients and give them warmth, and empathy. I have a relaxed, flexible approach to counselling, and although I may occasionally challenge you, I will always do so with respect and the intention of offering a new perspective.
Having lived through my own varied experiences, I know how tough things can become. I listen with an open mind and an open heart even when faced with the most difficult situations and feelings. I want you to feel free to express yourself openly, without fear of judgement or concern about appearing foolish, or flawed. There are no better or worse emotions. All feelings and experiences, no matter how big or small, are valid and worth exploring. I can help you see how they all fall into place.
You may be afraid of confronting painful or intolerable subjects during therapy. That's perfectly understandable. I will never push you to reveal anything you are not comfortable with. You, the client, set the pace of therapy and there's no rush to address difficult topics until you feel ready.
Talk to me
You may be scared of things moving fast, and what emotions it will bring up. Sudden change, even positive, may be overwhelming. My counselling room is a safe space, where change is gradual, and I provide a supportive environment for processing emotions in your own time.
Sometimes your problems may seem unfathomable: I've been fine all this time so why am I not coping now? But the truth is that, most likely, your issues have been in the making for many, many years. Up until now you have managed to navigate your way in the complex world of emotions - your mind and body have established some coping mechanisms, we all do - but there may come a time when things just become too much and your defences begin to fail you. I can help you understand why they are no longer working and how to build new ones.
There is no magic wand to solve life's problems but talking to someone who truly gets you and is always on your side may be the second best option.
Get my help
Yes, it's good to talk, but sometimes it's hard to put your feelings into words, or things just don't seem to make sense. You may feel unsettled even when everything seems fine or get tangled in anxious thoughts without a clear cause. This can lead to confusion and frustration. Words and understanding alone may not be enough. While logic is important, simply knowing why you feel a certain way doesn't always make it easier to change how you feel.That's when we can go beyond talking therapy, exploring body or art-based techniques to uncover the non-verbal signals that may reveal deeper insights. Together, we'll listen to these cues and work toward greater clarity.
You may feel like you're in a dark and lonely place, and that can be terrifying. Yet, there is no light without darkness, and it's often in the shadows that we begin to truly see ourselves. I can help you get there.
Book a session
I have gained experience working for Serendipity York, 1-2-1 Counselling, York St John Communities Centre, and my own private practice.
Talk to meFace to face appointments off Heslington Road. Online, and telephone appointments anywhere in the world. Sessions are charged at £50 per session and last 50 minutes.
After an initial discussion, clients typically start with a block of 6-8 weekly sessions. Following this, the frequency can be adjusted based on progress and needs, with options for weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly sessions. One-off sessions are also available for immediate support or specific guidance.
07738 813 683 monique@frontroomyork.co.uk Front Room
