James Walford
Approach and background
As an integrative counsellor I draw on a range of different theories to build a tailormade approach that will vary depending on your individual needs.
I offer a non-judgemental space within which we can explore any issues that are affecting your life. We will explore how you think and feel about your past as this will enhance your understanding of why you feel the way you do in the present. By bringing your sub conscious thoughts into awareness a greater degree of understanding can be achieved. This approach coupled with a range of techniques such as mindfulness-based stress reduction will aim to bring about positive psychological change and increased resilience to stress.
In my private practice and in my work for the NHS I have worked with a variety of presenting issues and clients. A strong therapeutic relationship based on trust and empathy is essential and is the first step towards helping you on your journey towards a place of peace, contentment, and lasting happiness.
I am prepared to work with any issues that are causing problems with your mental health. However, I mainly work with anxiety, depression, stress, grief, addiction, and relationships. Past trauma plays a large part in damaging our mental health and by sensitively examining these events the process of healing our inner wounds can begin.
Training, qualifications, and experience
I am a qualified integrative Counselling Psychotherapist and have completed a diploma in integrative Counselling.
I spent a year living off grid in Spain and this experience taught me the importance of connecting with nature and of taking life at a slower pace. It was during this period that I learned to meditate. Meditation gave me a daily practice which allowed me to take a step back from my thoughts. This has greatly helped with both my anxiety and depression. I now teach meditation to complement my counselling work.
I taught English in Cambodia and learned from this that I liked working with people and wanted to be in a profession where I felt like I was helping to make the world a better place.
I have experience working with the NHS talking therapies program and in private practice.
I was drawn to the counselling profession after I made a recovery from substance addiction. A diagnosis of Crohn’s disease at age 10 was traumatising and resulted in severe anxiety and depression. This led to me becoming a substance addict to try and self-medicate. After surviving a suicide attempt in 2017 I decided there had to be a better way. Using Counselling, Meditation and Exercise I managed to reach a place of inner peace. I found my Counsellor such a helpful part of my recovery I decided I wanted to retrain and help others who were struggling with their mental health.
I am a registered member of the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (BACP) whose code of ethics I abide by.
Diploma in Integrative Counselling @ The Awareness Centre 2024
Level 2 Counselling Skills @ East Sussex College 2021
Level 1 Certificate in Interpersonal Skills @ East Sussex College 2021
Availability, fees, and contact details
I offer all my slots in-person and online.
I offer weekly and fortnightly sessions.
I offer appointments from:
10am-8pm on Mondays
9am-8pm on Tuesdays
10am-8pm on Thursdays
9am-6pm on Fridays
I do have some flexibility so please get in touch for current availability.
I offer a free initial call and sessions are £65 thereafter.
You can contact me on Jwalfordcounselling@gmail.com or on 07935948235
