Rate Wendy Dunbar

Welcome! I'm a qualified person-centred counsellor/psychotherapist, based in the UK, and experienced working with children, young people and adults, in many areas including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, OCD, illness, bereavement and ADHD/Autism. I strive to create a trusting space where you feel encouraged to share your thoughts and feelings and start to gain a more in-depth insight into the issues you face; you can begin to make positive changes, reconnect with others, and regain control of your life.

There can be many reasons a person may feel they need to reach out. Maybe you have thoughts around not being good enough and feel stagnant and stuck in a world that at times can feel overwhelming and suffocating, leaving you possibly feeling isolated from others? Or have you suffered an unimaginable, indescribable loss of someone or something dear to you, leaving you feeling numb or in excruciating pain? Life may have continued on, but your world is shaken and has taken on a 'surreal-ness' where you no longer feel physically present or able to function. Have you experienced a profound trauma, either physical or emotional, such as a life-changing illness/diagnosis or a significant operation that's left you feeling like a shadow of the person you once were, wanting to hide away from the world and disappear? Or maybe compulsive and addictive behaviours have started to threaten the quality of your life, leaving you feeling powerless, like you’ve lost control?

I’m here to help create that trusting relationship in a confidential environment, where you felt safe to communicate your full self and feel truly listened to, accepted and heard. This can be hard to find in our busy, everyday lives and yet it can promote growth and give us the strength to move forward in a positive direction. I will not claim to be an expert in your world, as how can I possibly know exactly how it feels to be you? What I do know is deep within us, we have all the necessary tools needed to help us uncover unimagined possibilities, discover solutions, make decisions and find some healing in the essential unity of the mind and body.

As a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), I’m regulated and supported in keeping up to date my skills through the ethical standards of good practice.

As part of my professional standards in ensuring ethical practice, I’m committed to my continuous professional/personal development. I attend regular supervision with a trained professional.

Confidentiality is paramount to me as I’m aware you will be sharing personal experiences. I will stay committed to protecting your safety. If you share anything that worries me regarding your safety or the safety of another, then this may be an exception and I will need to share this with my supervisor. I would try to discuss this with you where possible beforehand. I am legally obliged to also break confidentiality if you disclose any money laundering or terrorism.

I have gained knowledge and skills working as a practitioner in the health industry, supporting physical and emotional wellbeing through relaxing body techniques.

I progressed into the educational sector, where I've supported many children over the last 20 years, including those considered to have learning and behavioural difficulties. I have worked alongside other services providing a type of wraparound support placing the person at the centre.

I have a personal and professional interest in the psychological stress/impacts of life-changing physical health problems/injuries, as well as a good knowledge/experience addressing emotional issues with clients who hold spiritual or religious beliefs e.g. Christians.