Michele Atkin - Profile

Hello, my name is Michele, I am a registered degree qualified counsellor. I have a gentle calming approach to the way I work. Clients have commented about how they feel safe and emotionally supported during our sessions. I support people during times of stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, loss of identity, chronic illness and relationship issues.

Taking that first step can be daunting. I understand that for some people talking about what brings them to counselling can feel quite scary. It may well be the first time you’ve spoken out loud about what’s on your mind. You may feel resistance. Insecurities may surface. Will they judge me, will they be able to understand? Will they be able to help me?

Sometimes life can feel ‘just too much’, you feel like you have reached your capacity, you are emotionally sensitive or feel numb. You lack clarity in your thoughts and do not know where to turn. Take a deep breath and know that help is at hand. I offer guidance and support in a safe, non-judgemental space, to explore the things on your mind. I work face to face and online, facilitating our sessions, working with you, at your pace, allowing you to tell your story. I will hear your words and see you as a unique individual. I believe in your ability to heal and grow.

My approach is integrative, meaning I combine techniques and theories from different therapeutic modalities to tailor treatment to your needs. My style acknowledges that no single approach is effective for everyone, and I seek to integrate elements from various theories, such as cognitive-behavioural, humanistic, psychodynamic and systemic approaches.

I have a specialist interest and experience of working with people who struggle maintaining healthy relationships and may feel a loss of self-identity. Clients that I work with often lack focus, direction and feel totally overwhelmed. I work with a broad range of client conditions, anxiety, chronic illness, low self-esteem, and trauma.

At the heart of how I work, is the relationship we build together. Over the past 16 years of working in therapeutic private practice, I have seen how positive outcome in therapy comes from forming a strong professional relationship with clients. Mutual trust and respect in our therapeutic relationship is the safe container that will allow us to go where you need to go. From this foundation change is possible.
Working together I can help you gain greater insight into the difficulties you are facing, help you understand why you act or react to them the way you do, and see how you can start to make better, heathier choices moving forward.

I volunteered for The Fountain Centre for 6 years. Providing therapy for cancer patients and their carers. I also volunteered, in a counselling capacity for Oakleaf Enterprise on a weekly basis for 2 years, supporting clients through difficult life events, relationship problems, upsetting or traumatic experiences, difficult emotions, depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems.