Kensho Counselling
Kenshō (n.) - from the school of Zen Buddhism, translates as ‘seeing one’s nature’. This insight occurs during times of temporary pain and results in self-awareness and growth.
All of us struggle with our mental health at some point - it is simply an unfortunate part of being human. But that doesn't mean our only option is to resign ourselves to suffer until these issues pass. Having someone to support you as you work through and overcome difficulties with your mental health can be hugely beneficial. It provides a safe space to make sense of your thoughts and feelings, and develop self-awareness, self-compassion and resilience so you can live a full, contented life.
Before starting the process, it can feel like counselling will take you to an uncomfortable place by making you face difficult feelings or situations. Sometimes, though, this is necessary in order to process and overcome what is causing your suffering. Having the support of a trained counsellor, who listens to you, accepts you and doesn't make you work beyond your own pace, gives you the tools to take steps out of this difficult place towards healing and growth.
How can counselling help?
How I work
Hello! I'm Amy and I'm a pluralistic, person-centred counsellor. I can help you work through and overcome difficulties you may be experiencing with your mental health in a safe, relaxed and non-judgemental space.
As a pluralistic practitioner, I believe that you, the client, and I, the counsellor, are equal partners in the counselling space. Instead of being an 'expert' who dictates what you should do, I work alongside you to enable you to find your own solutions. This often involves using tools and methods from different therapeutic approaches, as well as regular feedback from you about how helpful these tools and methods are.
As a person-centred counsellor, I believe that everybody has the ability to overcome issues and fulfil their potential when given the right conditions. This approach is built upon three core conditions - empathy, genuineness and unconditional acceptance of every individual. This creates a non-judgemental space where we can explore your thoughts, feelings and beliefs to encourage growth and develop self-awareness.
I am a National Counselling Society accredited counsellor and hold a Level 5 Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling Practice along with an MSc in Psychology.
Services and Fees
I can help you with a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, low self-esteem, family/relationship troubles and grief, to name a few.
Although I work with individuals from all backgrounds, I have a particular interest in working with those engaged in the arts, and how the counselling process can be used to enhance artistic practice as well as personal wellbeing. This area of interest originates from my early career as an actor and from working as a volunteer counsellor at a drama school.
I offer a free 30-minute introductory session so you can decide if I am the right counsellor for you. In this session, we can talk about why you are seeking counselling and about how we would work together. There is no obligation to continue sessions if you feel it's not for you.
Subsequent sessions are priced at £50 for one hour.
I also offer longer sessions which are priced at £70 for 90 minutes.
Please note that I currently offer online sessions via Zoom. Should you prefer to have face-to-face sessions, please get in touch as this may be something I can accommodate. Face-to-face sessions would take place in Manchester city centre.
