With Lynne Parnall
Counsellor & Psychotherapist
At times we may ask ourselves: “Do I accept who I am or challenge myself?” or “Do I connect with new possibilities and let go of things that aren’t working?” Many of us struggle in our lives to find balance between these choices. Sometimes this can lead to pain, frustration, unhealthy patterns and possibly even addictions.
How do we even know what type of therapist are we looking for? We can read the blurb but does a lovely website make me good therapist? Not really, I’m not a techie expert but I am human, with everything that goes with that!
Clients can be nervous or excited (or both!) when they first arrive, and opening up initially may be difficult and painful, so I do my best to make that first encounter feel OK. It can be a relief to finally be heard, and after a first appointment you’ll likely feel a little bit of hope that things can change. Seeing clients move from that first contact through to the day, whenever that is, when we sit together and agree our work is done is indescribable; it’s such a privilege to do the work I do.
I describe myself as a “Generalist” meaning I see clients across a range of difficulties or topics. In no particular order: adverse experiences, trauma, grief, life-changing or life-limiting illness or conditions, struggles to express feelings, anxiety, worry, depression, low mood, body issues, problematic or worrying alcohol consumption, substance abuse, hopelessness, relationships (of all kinds), stress, abuse, family difficulties, child loss, bullying, work trauma, self-harm, illness, and family life, are the most common.
I welcome everyone across all belief systems, gender, sexuality, background, ethnicity, physical condition, age, neuro-diverse / typical, and political persuasion. In my space, I strive to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected, fostering open dialogue and understanding among diverse perspectives.
I don’t tend to use language like disorder, broken or ill, but I appreciate you may use that language and that’s ok. I prefer to think of our work as an opportunity to heal wounds and reveal more of the true you. Of course, more often than not, it does require us to discuss and explore painful experiences and feelings.
As humans we strive to understand our true selves. My work is about providing that safe, confidential, warm, welcoming, non-judgmental environment for us to explore your thoughts, feelings, behaviours and experiences.
Sometimes it may be challenging for you, and much of our work is about ensuring we go at a pace and extent of challenge that feels safe for you whilst still “exploring your edges”.
My office is conveniently located on the Ground floor, ensuring easy access via the main door, making it approachable for those with different mobility needs. I believe that diversity enriches our community and enhances our collective experiences, so I encourage individuals from all walks of life to visit and share their unique stories.
Originally from Hampshire, England, I moved to Wales in 2018 to enjoy the countryside and the Welsh way of life. My background is in Social Care and Teaching in Further Education, moving into management in both the education sector and business sector.
I’ve trained in the counselling field over many years and, working in counselling services along the way as well as using my counselling skills within the workplace. Over the last few years I’ve worked with a local Mind as a counsellor and Assessor.
I moved into this type of work as I’m interested in the human condition, what makes us tick and how do we survive this life thing. I personally do best when I’m feeling balanced myself but I can honestly say that took me a while to work that one out. When I’m not with clients, I’m likely to be practicing my own self-care; Watercolour painting, knitting (badly)! gardening, or maybe just watching TV….
I’ve had therapy myself (by the way, I tend to use psychotherapy, counselling and therapy interchangeably) and began to see the benefits of speaking to someone in a confidential, non-judgmental space who had reliable, evidence-based psychological knowledge. I always find this helpful, sometimes just to put things into perspective.
Qualifications and Accreditations
Sometimes it can be perceived that academic credentials in the therapy field don’t matter, focussing on the personality of the therapist instead.
The relationship is vital for successful therapy and the evidence backs that up. However I’m an advocate for the combination of academic, personal and clinical requirements to be demonstrated too. The list below show my qualifications which run alongside life experience. I’ve undertaken many hours of my own therapy giving me a real knowledge of what its like to be the client.
My qualifications are:
. Certificate in Psychodynamic Counselling
. Advanced Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling (Integrative)
. Diploma in Adlerian Counselling
. Diploma in Hypnotherapy
. Certificate in Online Counselling
I’m accredited with BACP (British Association of Counselling & Psychotherapy) and follow their ethical framework which means I work within boundaries which are there to keep you safe. Follow this link here to find out more:
BACP Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions
Membership Number: 411381
I regularly undertake CPD (Continued Professional Development) events to keep my knowledge and skills up to date.
Fees and payments
Each session lasts for sixty minutes, face to face. We will arrange a time that suits us both and see each other at the same time, on the same day weekly.
My fee for is £50 per hour. The first session will be for ninety minutes to enable me to gather information and for you to see how you feel about working with me. There is a charge of £60 for this first meeting.
Payment can be made weekly or monthly upfront, either in cash or via bank transfer.
