Alison Penfold - Counsellor/Psychotherapist for Individuals and Couples in Central Bath

BA (Hons) MBACP (Accredited/Registered) BAPAM Registered

Welcome to My Therapy Practice

A confidential space to explore the thoughts, feelings and challenges in your life

ABOUT ME

Having established a successful private practice in London from 2010, I began my practice in Central Bath (and online across the UK) in 2019.

Originally from an arts background, for many years I worked as a classical singer before making my decision to train as a therapist.

My training began with an Advanced Certificate in Counselling Skills and Theory, continuing with a BA (Hons) degree in Integrative Relational Counselling. From 2008 I began my practice in a busy NHS Medical Centre with clients presenting with a very wide range of issues.

I see both individuals and couples and I have obtained a certificate in couples therapy from COSRT, the College of Sexual and Relationship Therapy. I support clients experiencing all types of difficult issues and situations including low self-worth, bereavement and loss, childhood abuse and trauma, sibling abuse, work related stress, performance anxiety, relationship and friendship issues and much more. Using the concepts of attachment theory, I have extensive experience of supporting clients with personal development and relationships of all kinds.

Drawing from my background as a classical singer and voice teacher, I regularly support performers and others in a wide range of Creative Arts.

Alison Penfold, counsellor
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I am a BAPAM registered therapist and have worked as a guest lecturer at Trinity Laban Conservatoire, presenting workshops on emotional wellbeing for performers.

In my work with young adults, I feel able to engage on a wide range of issues and to offer you a space in which to safely explore any difficulties that you are experiencing.


I am a fully accredited member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy, having completed a rigorous post-qualification process. I work within the BACP Ethical Framework for Good Practice. I continue to support all my work and to increase my knowledge and understanding with ongoing training. I am also AVIVA and BUPA registered.

ABOUT THERAPY

I offer therapy from premises in central Bath and online across the UK. I work with individuals (including young people over 18) and couples, either on a short-term or long-term basis, dependant on your need. I have extensive experience in working with depression, anxiety, sexuality, relationship issues, personal development and self-care, addiction recovery, loss and bereavement, trauma, historical abuse, sibling abuse, self-esteem and confidence issues, self-sabotage, difficulties in the workplace and other major life-changes. I also specialise in working with creative artists and I am a BAPAM registered therapist.

The distinction between Counselling and Psychotherapy often causes confusion. The names are often used interchangeably, and whilst both might focus on either a single issue or a range of concerns, it might generally be considered that counselling more readily refers to shorter term therapy with a clearer goal and focus; also that psychotherapy describes therapy in which the client is supported over a longer period to identify, understand and change patterns of behaviour which are now experienced as problematic.

The developing relationship between therapist and client is particularly significant. In contrast to other relationships, it more readily takes place in a confidential, non-judgmental space, offering opportunity to explore, experience, heal and grow. This in turn might help you to find self acceptance, balance and meaning in your life.

Primarily, our first consultation is used to explore the difficulties that you are experiencing, to decide what might be the most helpful way for us to work together, and to discuss practicalities such as time of sessions and fees. As a fully accredited member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), I work within and am guided by their ethical framework.

FOR PERFORMERS

I utilise my performing and counselling experience by continuing to work with performers in a therapeutic context. As a guest lecturer at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, I created and presented workshops to both staff and students on emotional well-being for performers. I am also an approved therapist with the British Association of Performing Arts Medicine Trust (BAPAM), where I support performers who are experiencing emotional difficulties and performance anxiety.

COUPLES COUNSELLING AND RELATIONSHIP COACHING

Sometimes it can feel as though we have completely lost the ability to relate to our partner. We might feel angry, frustrated, and deeply hurt that they do not seem to hear what we are trying to say… and sometimes, they might feel the same! It might be that you feel betrayed and are unable to imagine ever getting past these feelings, or bringing the intimacy and connection back into your relationship.

CONTACT ME

Should you wish to contact me for further information about my practice or to book an appointment, please call 01225 315 935 or contact me by e-mail. I will respond to your message as soon as possible.

All enquires are usually answered within 24 hours, and all contact is strictly confidential and uses secure phone and email services.

MY LOCATION

I am based in Central Bath and my practice also covers Bathampton, Batheaston, Bathford, Bradford-on-Avon, Bristol, Chippenham, Frome, Keynsham and Trowbridge, and other surrounding areas. Early morning, daytime and evening appointments are available.

FEES & AVAILABILITY

I offer both short and long term therapy. My current fee is £70 per session for individuals and £100 per session for couples.


© Alison Penfold

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