Steve Birtwistle

I am a humanistic integrative counsellor based in Dorset and registered with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. I offer individual counselling face to face, walk-and-talk sessions outdoors, and counselling by telephone, from a safe space where everyone is welcome.

My work is client-focused. As an integrative counsellor I draw on person-centred therapy, gestalt therapy and transactional analysis. Above all, I see and accept the whole of you, without judgement and with empathy, integrity and respect.

There is real power in talking to another person who sees you, hears you and accepts you. You will have the time and space to talk through whatever you need, and together we find a way forward, with a clearer sense of who you are and who you want to be.

Who I work with

I have worked with many people experiencing depression, anxiety and addiction, difficulties in relationships or at work, or a sense of feeling lost or stuck. Some know exactly what they want but are struggling to get there.

A bit about me

I came to counselling after careers as a professional musician, in IT and as an actor, alongside work as a personal trainer and massage therapist. I have had counselling myself and know what it is like to be on the other side of the room.

Three things from person-centred therapy guide me every day:

• Empathy: stepping into your shoes to see how the world feels for you
• Unconditional positive regard: accepting you as you are, without judgement
• Congruence: being honest, open and genuine

Sessions are 50 minutes and continue weekly for as long as you feel you need support.