About Me
My name is John Harris. I am a qualified Integrative Therapeutic Counsellor, working with adult clients (18+) on a one-to-one basis, at the Wellbeing Centre in Chepstow.
My love and respect for the therapeutic process is founded in my own positive experience of personal counselling, which was invaluable to me in the past and to this day. Counselling helped me understand my thoughts, feelings and behaviors, which over time has allowed me to grow as a person, find acceptance and become my authentic self. My aim is to help others as I was helped.
I am an accredited member of the NCPS (National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society), working to their code of ethics. I am on a register accredited by the Professional Standards Authority, which was set up by government to improve standards and safety for the benefit of the public. This accreditation demonstrates my commitment to high professional standards, enhancing safety and to delivering a better service.
I believe in equality, honesty and respect and ensure my service is fair and accessible to all.
Before starting my private practice, I worked at Newport Mind, helping my clients with a variety of issues, including; anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, physical and sexual abuse, confidence issues, workplace bullying, stress, death and bereavement, body image, panic attacks, suicidal feelings, stress, spirituality, eating disorders, drug use, ASD, ADHD, BPD, anger issues, physical health problems, and past trauma. If you come to me with something not covered in my experience and training, I will refer you to someone else who can help.
Professional Qualifications
Foundation Degree in Therapeutic Counselling (Merit, Level 5) – Gloucestershire College/ University of Gloucestershire (September 2024)
CPCAB Certificates in Counselling Studies (Levels 2 & 3) – South Gloucestershire & Stroud College
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Contact Me
Contact Me For More Information
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1-1 Sessions
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Confidential
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Fully Qualified
Tel: 07974548117
the Wellbeing Centre
Manor House
Bank Street
Chepstow
NP16 5EL
Tel: 07974548117
The Wellbeing Centre
Manor House
Bank Street
Chepstow
NP16 5EL
Location
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How do I know if I need counselling?Counselling can be beneficial for anyone experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, or other emotional difficulties. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or just need someone to talk to, counselling can provide support and guidance. It’s a personal decision, and seeking help is a positive step towards improving your well-being.
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What can I expect in my first session?At our first session, we will discuss things in more detail and complete an assessment so that I fully understand your situation and goals. We will also agree our contract, which outlines what you can expect from me, what I need from you, and how we will work together moving forward.
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How long do sessions last and how often should I attend?Sessions are 50 minutes long. We would normally work weekly at the same time every week, to maintain continuity and help you make steady progress. However, the frequency can be adjusted to meet your personal circumstances.
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Will my conversation be kept confidential?Yes. This is a corner stone of counselling and everything you share is kept private and confidential. As required by law, the only time I will break confidentiality is if you tell me something that might be a danger to yourself or others or if you disclose serious criminal activity.
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What happens when I contact you?We’ll arrange an introductory 20-minute telephone consultation (free-of-charge), where we will discuss your situation and needs. I will answer any questions you may have and if you are happy with everything, we will arrange our first face-to-face session at the Wellbeing Centre, Chepstow.
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Can I choose what I talk about in my session?Absolutely. You can bring up whatever is on your mind. This is your time to talk and be listened to, in a safe space.
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How many sessions do I need?The path to personal growth through therapy is different for everyone, some things take longer than others. But don’t worry, we’ll review things regularly to see how you’re feeling about your progress and make sure we stay on the right track. There is no limit placed on the number of sessions you can have.
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What is your availability?I currently work Mondays to Thursdays, 1pm until 5pm. We will discuss available time slots during our initial consultation.
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What do I do if I need to cancel or reschedule?Please give me as much notice as possible, if you let me know at least 48 hours in advance, you will not be charged for the session.
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What does it cost and how is payment made?My fee is £50 per session, payment is by bank transfer/direct debit, in advance.
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Do you have parking?Welsh Street car park is to the rear of the Wellbeing Centre. Just walk through the small arcade to the side of the library and you will find us to your left.
How I Can Help
Since you are reading this, it’s likely that you’ve made a decision to try and change something in your life for the better. That takes courage, especially when you may be overwhelmed by your thoughts, feelings or behaviours.
I know it’s not always easy talking to family and friends – they want what’s best for you of course, but they may not always be great listeners or be the most empathic; they may want to give you advice about what you should do, without seeing the whole picture. You may even feel that they might judge you. A professional counsellor, however, will listen to you fully and impartially, will never judge you. They will be there with you in a genuine, trusting, working relationship to support you and help you reach your goals.
Whether you are looking for a counsellor for the first time or you have already experienced the benefits of talking therapy, I offer you a safe, confidential place where you can talk and be heard. Together, we will have the time and space to explore your individual experience - how you think and how you feel, to understand what this means for you and discover and develop who you are as a person. Your goals will be my goals.
As an integrative counsellor, I am able to draw on multiple theories and techniques to help you to gain clarity of thought and self-awareness. I offer a tailored approach to you as an individual. I draw on my own life experiences - we’ll be using some of the same approaches that helped me so much personally in the past – in times of depression, bereavement and relationship difficulties. I know what it’s like to be overwhelmed by life events and how therapy can get you to a better place. Ultimately, you will find that the answers will be found within yourself. I will work with you to help you find those solutions and realise your aspirations.