COUNSELLING & THERAPY IN GUILDFORD AND ONLINE

About Me

Before becoming a counsellor, I had a twenty-year career in science and technology, the last decade of which was paralleled with my own personal journey of change and growth as I addressed various addictive / compulsive behaviours and the confusing symptoms of Complex-PTSD. I understand first-hand that change and progress can be something that happens quite quickly but also something that develops and evolves over time. It can be at times frightening, painful, and upsetting but also cathartic, liberating, and inspiring.

My Experience

I have worked with a diverse range of clients with a wide range of concerns as a counsellor within a busy NHS GP practice, within a charitable setting offering support to adult carers of family members and within my private practice. As part of my own personal journey of change and growth I have worked with my own personal therapist for a number of years and continue to do so.

Since late 2021 I have been been working in addiction treatment centres helping those struggling with addiction begin a life of sobriety and recovery. I am currently a team member delivering the Addiction Treatment Programme (ATP) at the Priory Hospital, Woking

My Approach

Person-Centred

A Humanistic approach that addresses how clients consciously perceive themselves.

Central to the Person-Centred is the belief that you can use your own resources to achieve your potential if shown empathy, unconditional positive regard and congruence.

Gesalt

A Humanistic approach that views every individual as a whole (mind, body and spirit) and that you are best understood from your experiences of your current situation.

It is an approach that focusses on the ‘here and now’, promoting awareness of how you think, feel and act in the moment and gain insight into how you find relief from current distress.

Psychodynamic

With its roots in Freud’s Psychoanalysis, the Psychodynamic approach builds on a multitude of analytic therapies.

The aim of psychodynamic therapy is to increase self-awareness and build understanding of how the past influences what is happening for you In the present.

If you wish to find out more about the many and varied approaches to counselling, the BACP has a webpage with more information here. And I have links to some additional information on my helpful links page here.

MattBrooksCounseling is a trading name of 416 Consulting Limited