About Ruth Basten
Most of us go through times in our life when we need a little, or a lot of, support. That is where I come in as a person-centred counsellor.
Often it is good to talk to someone who is not a friend or family member. We can be more honest and don’t feel that we are putting our problems onto those we love.
If you are having relationship issues or feel that you would benefit from couples counselling I am able to offer support in both of these areas.
Sometimes we are lonely, suffering from anxiety or depression and believe that we are alone with our troubles and it is useful to have someone to share our thoughts and feelings with. Counselling is there for young and old, men and women. It is my job to help you to find your way through the minefield of life and to help you to make the changes you need or want to make. I believe that we all have the answers to our own questions within us and it is my job to help you to recognise those answers and enable you to work with them. You will be offered a confidential, supportive, understanding and non-judgmental environment in which to achieve this.
I work from two locations - Congleton and at IQ Therapies in Alsager. IQ Therapies has just expanded its premises and the counselling room offers a lovely homely and relaxing environment. As well as counselling the centre offers physiotherapy, alternative treatments such as Reiki and hot stone massage and group classes such as Yoga (all therapists are experts in their fields). You may find some of these other treatments work well alongside your counselling, especially for relaxation.
Which ever location you come to you will be offered a full hour’s appointment in pleasant surroundings and the session can include a relaxation and breathing control period if you would like it to (learning how to use your breathing to control anxiety and panic can be very beneficial).
Some people find that one or two sessions of counselling is all they require to help them think through their issues whilst others need longer term support. I am more than happy to work in whatever way suits you best and we will do regular informal reviews so that you are always kept in touch with how much progress you are making and you will know and be able to make the decision as to when it is the right time to stop counselling.
Many of my clients have low self esteem or lack self confidence and benefit from an understanding and introduction to assertiveness, which enables them to feel more in control of their lives and more able to deal with confrontation. I offer assertiveness training as part of on-going counselling for clients who may benefit from this.
Whilst counselling is often about change and development it can also be a place to put things into perspective, to find alternative ways of looking at life and to come to terms with the things we have no power over. It is always a challenge but I hope that I can offer the kind of support which enables you to feel accepted and ultimately leads most people to feeling more positive about themselves and about their lives and thus able to make whatever changes they wish or feel they need to make.
I came into counselling after a career in theatre and education. My life has taken a number of directions during the years and I have experienced personal loss and serious illness. I do believe that my life experience combined with my belief in the goodness of human nature enable me to offer a positive and non-judgmental relationship with those I counsell. I am not shocked or offended by what I hear but rather accept the person who sits beside me as a valuable and important individual who needs support which they may feel unable to access elsewhere.
My training, work experience and any achievement
I have just completed a PhD at Keele University.
Master of Science Degree (with distinction) in Counselling Psychology, Post Graduate Diploma in Counselling Psychology, Certificate in Counselling.
Master of Arts Degree Theatre Studies, Bachelor of Arts Degree English and Drama.
I am the Counsellor at I.Q Therapies (Physiotherapy & Complimentary Health), Alsager.
I also run a private counselling practice from my home in Congleton.
I have worked for The Dove Counselling Services in Hanley which specialises in bereavement and life changing illness. I have also worked for a GP practice dealing with any GP patient referrals. Further Information
Whilst working with all issues and problems I am experienced with and have extensive knowledge of Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
Other concerns & issues I deal with
life changing illness, bereavement. loss
Price List
Special Online Booking Offers
Book six sessions in advance for the price of five.
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