Andrew Ellerby

There are several factors that inspired me to pursue a career in professional counselling:

1. Passion for helping others: I was naturally drawn to supporting and assisting others in overcoming challenges and improving their well-being. The desire to make a positive impact on people's lives is a strong motivator for pursuing a career in counselling.

2. Personal experience: I have personally benefited from counseling or therapy in my own life. Experiencing the transformative power of counseling firsthand inspired me to want to provide the same support and guidance to others.

3. Empathy and compassion: I possess a high level of empathy and compassion and find myself naturally inclined towards counselling. I have a deep understanding of others' emotions and a genuine desire to alleviate their suffering.

4. Interest in psychology and human behavior: A fascination with human behavior, emotions, and the mind drove me to pursue a career in counselling. I enjoy learning about different theories and therapeutic approaches and have a genuine curiosity about what makes people tick.

5. Desire for personal growth and self-reflection: The field of counselling often requires me to engage in ongoing personal growth and self-reflection. I am motivated by my own personal development and I enjoy introspection. I find counselling to be a fulfilling and rewarding career choice.

6. Advocacy and social justice: I am passionate about advocating for the rights and well-being of marginalized populations or individuals facing social injustices. I am driven by a desire to address systemic issues and promote equality and inclusivity through my work.

Ultimately, the decision to become a professional counsellor is deeply personal and can be influenced by a combination of these factors. It is a profession that requires dedication, empathy, and a genuine desire to support others on their journey toward mental and emotional well-being.

I belive myself to offer a great service to my clients and I have all of the skills listed below to provide a supportive, rewarding and unique experience towards a successful journey of recovery.

1. Empathy: A great counsellor is empathetic, able to understand and share the feelings of their clients. They create a safe and non-judgmental space where clients feel heard and understood.

2. Active listening: I actively listen to my clients, paying attention to both verbal and non-verbal cues. This helps me to understand the underlying issues and provide appropriate support.

3. Communication skills: Effective communication is crucial in counselling. Great counsellor’s are skilled at expressing themselves clearly and adapting their communication style to meet the needs of their clients.

4. Non-directive approach: While offering guidance and support, great counsellor’s allow clients to explore their own thoughts and feelings. They encourage self-reflection and personal growth without imposing their own beliefs or values.

5. Trustworthiness: Clients need to trust their counsellor to open up and share their deepest concerns. A great counsellor builds trust by maintaining confidentiality, being reliable, and acting ethically.

6. Knowledge and expertise: A strong foundation of knowledge and expertise in counselling theories, techniques, and practices is essential. Great counsellors continuously update their skills and stay informed about the latest research and developments in their field.

7. Cultural competence: A great counsellor demonstrates cultural sensitivity and respects the diversity of their clients. They are aware of how cultural backgrounds can influence beliefs, values, and communication styles, and they adapt their approach accordingly.

8. Boundaries and self-care: Maintaining appropriate boundaries is crucial to ensure the counsellor’s well-being and the quality of the therapeutic relationship. Great counsellors prioritize self-care and seek their own support to prevent burnout and maintain their own mental health.

These are just some of the qualities that contribute to being a great counsellor. I have my own unique strengths and approaches that make them effective in my work.

Telephone & Face Time sessions available to suit my clients specific needs. This service provides access to counselling where distance or travelling difficulties may occur.