Yasmeen Akhtar
Counselling and Psychotherapy​
About Me
I am an empathetic, caring and reflective person, who is motivated in listening and supporting individuals who wish to access counselling and psychotherapy. I see individuals as an expert of their own self and believe everyone has the potential for growth and healthy living. I empower individuals to bring forth issues they wish to explore in a safe and confidential environment.
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People often seek psychotherapy when they feel distressed, anxious or feel stuck in some way. These feelings may stem from being in a difficult relationship, a work-related situation, bereavement or when individuals are finding it difficult to move on from past experiences or unwanted thoughts and feelings. These issues can impact individuals in various ways; such as depression, anxiety and addictions. Counselling/psychotherapy can be effective in helping individuals explore their issues and bring about positive change.
My Approach
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I hold a Masters in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy. My approach includes attachment theory, Gestalt and person centred. My approach is reflective of my life philosophy and central to my beliefs of respecting an individual’s worldview.
The heart of the work is navigating the individuals here and now and exploring how their past may influence their present circumstances. I am compassionate, non-judgmental and work on developing a strong therapeutic relationship, which can aid in positive outcomes in therapy.
My Expertise
Qualifications
Masters in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy BSc in Social Work
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Professional Titles
Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychotherapist
Social Worker
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Registration
I am registered with BACP, UKCP and Social Work England.
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Like most psychotherapist, I can work with a wide range of issues, however I am more experienced working in the following areas:​
Identity
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Anxiety
Low self-esteem
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Self- Harm
Social anxiety
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Anger
Bereavement
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Adjustment to lifestyle changes
Depression
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Low moods
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Relational issues
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Loss
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Trauma
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Abuse
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Impact of family break up
Therapy
Child and Adolescent
My first career is in Social Work, and I have almost two decades of experience working with children, who have experienced early trauma, loss and abuse. Thus, I have a comprehensive understanding of the needs of traumatised children. As a therapist I work with children from the age of 5-18 with a diverse symptomology. I am passionate about helping children express their emotions and work through the challenges that they experience by providing a safe and confidential space. The therapeutic work includes engaging children and adolescents in a versatile way, by the use of play, images, metaphors and through creative work. These techniques help children to gain a self-awareness and contributes towards their healing.
Adults
I work collaboratively with individuals by building a strong and trusting relationship, which produces a positive change in their physical and emotional health. Together we can explore what is brought into therapy, helping the person gain clarity to repair, heal and grow. Counselling and psychotherapy primarily consist of talking therapies. Other activities such as mindfulness, body awareness and creative work, can also be used in our sessions, if this is something you wish to try.
Services
I offer the following services:
An Initial free twenty-minute consultation
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Long- or short-term therapy available
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Face to Face Online
Frequently Asked Questions
What is integrative therapy?
Integrative therapy draws on various approaches and I am able to tailor the techniques to the individuals needs and personal circumstances. I use Gestalt, person centred and attachment theory to draw upon my work.
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What are your charges?
My usual fee for working with adults is £45 and £60 with children and adolescents.
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What will the first session entail?
The first session entails getting to know you and what you would like to explore in therapy. I usually complete an assessment and a working agreement with you, so that you are fully informed about the expectations of the work.
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What ethical framework do you follow?
I am registered with BACP and UKCP. You can view the ethical framework online:
Home | UKCP (psychotherapy.org.uk)
The therapy is confidential and safe as the ethical guidelines are adhered to.
How long is the therapy?
I offer both short- and long-term work. Regardless of the length of the therapy, I regularly review the work and check in with you to learn what is working and what can be done differently to meet your needs. Each session is 50 minutes long and it usually takes place once a week at the same time.
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Why should I choose you as a therapist?
I work in an honest and transparent way with individuals from various faith or non-faith backgrounds. I am a sensitive and flexible person who offers a free twenty-minute consultation, thus allowing us to mutually decide whether we are able to work together to reach your goals.
Contact Me
It takes courage to seek help and choosing the right therapist can be confusing. If you would like to talk through your concerns and how we might work together, please contact me.
Please contact me using the form below, or email me
