Peter Dunn - Profile

While most of us can find solutions to our problems ourselves, when things are very difficult it can feel impossible to resolve what is so troubling without skilled help. Or sometimes, we might just need someone to talk things through with. I will listen to you carefully, and I will not make assumptions about you or judge you. Using a person-centred approach combined with warmth and empathy, I can gently enable you to unpack the issues you are struggling with. As an integrative counsellor, I combine person-centred methods with psychodynamic insights to help you understand where problems might have originated and how they can be eased. I can also use Gestalt, transactional analysis and cognitive-behavioural techniques to help you manage difficult emotions. Some people use these long after counselling has ended.

I qualified with the Diploma in Integrative Counselling in 2022. I have a degree in Social Science and a Diploma in Social Work. I have worked in professional helping roles for over forty years. I have experience of helping victims of violent crime, supporting people through bereavement, and working with life-limiting health conditions. I have worked extensively with LGBTQ+ communities. I have first-hand experience of responding to workplace bullying and discrimination. In 2010 my research with victims of homophobic violence earned me a PhD in sociology. Having qualified as a counsellor in later life, I can help people who are grappling with major life changes such as retirement, being an ‘empty nester’, and managing chronic illness. I have recent experience of counselling people around depression, anxiety, bereavement, illness, family problems, and making the most of neuro diversity. I can help with existential questions about making life meaningful.

I am a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. I work from Eaves Counselling in Guildford, and on-line. My fees start at £45 per session. I am happy to offer a 30 minute consultation by phone or Zoom, free of charge, to help you decide if you would like me to work with you.

I completed two placements while training to be a counsellor. The first was with NHS in Sutton, offering people six to twelve sessions of counselling, on-line. This enabled me to work in a brief, focused way that involves helping people change in a short period of time. My second placement was with The Eaves in Guildford with their low-cost service. This involved longer term, face to face work.