Jason Childs

Counselling offers people a confidential and nonjudgmental space in which to discuss their personal challenges, explore the meaning of their experiences, examine their values and beliefs, and consider and decide upon changes for the future. People seek counselling for many different reasons. Some do so because they are struggling with a recent (or not-so-recent) event, such as a personal or professional loss, or because they wish to address uncomfortable feelings, such as sadness or anxiety. Others come in order to address entrenched behaviour patterns or habits they wish to shed. Others hope to deepen their self-knowledge or find greater freedom and satisfaction in life. In our sessions, I will invite you to speak openly about whatever is on your mind. I will listen carefully and, more importantly, I will help and encourage you to hear yourself in new ways. This process can lead to important changes. My practice is oriented by the tradition of psychoanalysis, especially the work of the French analyst Jacques Lacan and his exponents. This means that I will pay close attention to your use of language, and that I will encourage you to explore desires and intentions of which you may not be immediately aware. Our work together will not involve me making a diagnosis, offering you advice, or training you in specialised mental techniques. Instead, I will encourage you, through speech, to come up with your own answers and with solutions unique to your situation. This can take time and patience, but ultimately makes more meaningful and lasting outcomes possible.