Chris Kirkness

Happy to discuss my availability during our initial call. I work in the voluntary sector with children and adults and have a private practice. I have found that life has many challenges; finding the resilience to accept them can be one of the greatest. Worry, sadness, stress, anxiety, greif or feeling stuck—whether in your personal circumstances or relationships are all natural responses to difficult circumstances. At these times, we all need support. Sometimes feelings, thoughts and emotions become overwhelming, compulsive, and intrusive making it hard to feel fulfilled, content, and happy. I understand at these times it can be especially hard to reach out. I sincerely hope we can work together to find your calmer space.

About me and my therapy practice

I believe in the therapeutic power of connecting with nature. The experience offers benefits, including reduced stress, anxiety, and depression, while also boosting happiness, creativity, and focus. Spending time in natural environments can lower heart rate and blood pressure, activate the parasympathetic nervous system for a "rest and digest" state, and even improve sleep quality by regulating the body's natural circadian rhythm. A strong connection to nature is linked to a greater sense of life satisfaction and purpose. Sessions are outside in Southeast London's beautiful parks on well-established paths. Walks are created to suit your needs and to ensure confidentiality. They provide an opportunity to appreciate the changing seasons, to find a calm moment in an overwhelming world and experience the grounding effect of natural green spaces while focusing on the issues affecting your life. If the outdoors is not for you I can also provide in person sessions in a more traditional setting.

About Me

I am a qualified counsellor registered with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (Â鶹ԭ´´). I have worked in various Charities and under NHS and local authority contracts providing support to adults and children. My approach is Person-Centred Therapy. I have been a coach, mentor, trainer and manager and can draw on these experiences to include elements of solution-focused interventions, if that feels appropriate for you. I can support you in creating plans to enhance aspects of your life and blend these approaches to provide a tailored and effective experience bespoke to your needs. I firmly believe in the power of change and personal growth, and I am here to support you on your journey.

I am currently pursuing a degree in Psychology and Counselling, further deepening my knowledge and skills to provide the best possible support for my clients.

I work within a person-centred approach, providing a safe, non-judgmental space for you to focus on yourself and any issues you want to bring. We are a product of our experiences and environment past and present. If we work together, my assessment process will recognise your childhood experiences as well as current relationships and patterns of behaviour.

Finding the right therapist for you is a vital part of your process. I offer a free phone interview, usually about 15 minutes, to see if we want tp progress. I can offer a detailed assessment to establish if we are a good fit and decide if we want to work together. Assessment can consume a whole session so if we feel not suited, the fee will be refunded at your discretion, and I will endeavour to support you in finding the right therapist.