Joanna Woods

I am a psychotherapeutic counsellor providing counselling in Brighton & Hove and online.  I am also a school counsellor working with young people aged 11 to 18, and spent 3 years as an honorary counsellor for a local LGBTQ+ mental health charity.  My approach is inclusive and affirming of gender, sexual and relationship diversity.

Whether you are in the midst of a crisis, or wanting to come to terms with something that happened long ago, counselling can provide some calm and space in our busy lives and fast-changing world. You would be free to choose how you use your counselling sessions, and I will be alongside you as you explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences in any area of you life. You might want to increase self-awareness and deepen understanding about feelings, relationships and behaviour patterns, and to develop strategies and resilience in response to life’s challenges. I can help you to explore new ways to manage uncertainty, anxiety and distress, navigate a life transition, or explore relationship dynamics that are not working for you.   I would bring compassion, calmness, attentiveness and honesty in working with you.

My counselling approach prioritises the relationship between the two of us as a safe and confidential place. I will respect you as a whole person rather than focus solely on a problem, label or diagnosis. I understand that everyone is unique, and everyone has their own experiences and understanding of the world we live in, our relationships and past events.