AJ Quarmby

 

Hello, I'm A.J. I offer a warm welcome, and help you feel believed and understood – so you
can get through life’s knotty stuff. I’m here for those times when life has been unkind, and
your emotions seem too much or you can’t feel at all.

Perhaps you’re tired of people not understanding you, or telling you how you should act and
think… and what would you like is to feel at home in your own life. If this is you, counselling’s
a grand place to start.

I’ve been counselling people of all ages since 2005. I’ve worked extensively with survivors of
abuse, with children and teenagers, as well as with autistic children and adults, parents, and
folk who are bereaved. Working in schools, a family support agency and domestic abuse
project, my focus has always been to help people find their voice and know with confidence
who they are; and for their thoughts and worries to get a reviving breath of fresh air.

My service is inclusive, fostering an approach that respects and recognises everyone’s
identity and experience. When I’m counselling younger children, they can use play to
process overwhelming thoughts and feelings. For clients under 18, I offer an initial
discussion with their parent or carer. I’m also trained in pre-trial therapy for crime victims who
are trial witnesses.

If you contact me, I’ll help you feel at ease and encouraged, give you time, and happily
answer any questions. I hope you find the right person to talk to – good luck!

To help you decide, here are four good reasons why counselling helps…
1. It helps you find words. Maybe, in a past time, it was difficult for you to talk; but with a
trustworthy therapist, you find the words to convey your experiences at your pace, in your
way.
2. You can choose to reflect on how different times in your life have affected you, and get to
know the different parts of who you are.
3. When you’re with someone who gets what you’re going through, your mind becomes
rewired – so you feel readier to deal with life’s surprises.
4. It's you who decides what to talk about, and when to talk about it. As your therapist, I’m
trained in how the mind works, and this helps best when you are free to take the lead. You
might need me to simply listen; or you might prefer a more interactive dialogue, where my
questions guide you through your worries and hopes.

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