Hello. My working hours are as follows:

Heathfield Rooms - Mondays 9.30-7.30

Home visits - Flexible 

Online and telephone - Flexible 

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Hello, my name is Sophie and I am a person-centred counsellor specialising in working with people with dementia and their families. A diagnosis of dementia causes distress and uncertainty to the person with dementia as well as their loved ones. It can feel as though there is little hope and whilst the medical side is being addressed a person's emotional and mental health can be forgotten when that is needed more than ever.                                                Person-centred counselling can be a valuable tool for both people with dementia and their families. By fostering a safe space and bringing empathy and understanding I can assist the client to express their emotions, share life stories and find meaning in their present experiences. For families, counselling provides a safe space to talk and be heard, this can strengthen bonds and increase resilience. I pride myself in holding a safe space with each individual client, whether it is a home visit or within my comfortable counselling room

I am based near Heathfield and cover Hailsham, Polegate, Horam, Eastbourne, Uckfield and Mayfield

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As a person-centered counsellor working with people with dementia, my approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and a commitment to seeing the individual behind the diagnosis. 

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In the first counselling session with a client living with dementia, my priority is to create a welcoming and calm environment. I start by introducing myself in a clear and friendly manner, explaining what counselling is and reassuring them about confidentiality in simple terms. I take time to build rapport, often using gentle conversation about familiar topics or shared interests to make them feel comfortable. If they can, I invite them to share what brings them to counselling, how they are feeling, and any challenges they are experiencing. In this session, I also assess their comfort level, preferred communication style, and how best to support them. My goal is to make the client feel safe, valued, and respected while gathering information to tailor future sessions to their needs and abilities.

In the first counselling session with a family member of someone living with dementia, I'll focus on creating a safe, non-judgmental space where they feel heard and understood. I'll listen actively and encourage them to express their emotions, concerns, and struggles. The session will help them explore feelings of grief, frustration, and guilt while providing validation. Through empathetic listening, I'll reflect their thoughts and feelings, helping them gain clarity and self-awareness. Ultimately, I'll support them in discovering personal strengths and coping strategies, while also giving information regarding future sessions to address ongoing challenges.