About Me
Hello, my name is Alena, and I am an Integrative Counsellor. I have also worked as a GP for over a decade having qualified as doctor over 20 years ago.
I do private practice on Fridays and Saturdays at Blake House, Bootham, York.
In addition to private practice I volunteer as a counsellor at a Leeds-based charity.
My Background
The decision to train as a counsellor grew out of my own experiences and the experiences of patients I have cared for over the years. After completing certificate level training at York College, I completed an MA Integrative Counselling at Leeds Beckett University.
My Approach
Who I Work With
‘Integrative’ means that I use a combination of therapeutic models in my work with clients, which I adapt to suit each client in their context. The core of my practice is person-centred; in the therapeutic relationship I am neither expert nor guide, but a person with whom clients can think about the course of their lives, their relationsh
‘Integrative’ means that I use a combination of therapeutic models in my work with clients, which I adapt to suit each client in their context. The core of my practice is person-centred; in the therapeutic relationship I am neither expert nor guide, but a person with whom clients can think about the course of their lives, their relationships with themselves and their relationships with others, and the possibility of change, acceptance or both, in the way that is right for them.
There is more information about therapeutic models on the BACP website here.
Who I Work With
Who I Work With
I work with adults (aged over 18 years) and have helped clients with past and present life difficulties including, but not limited to:
- Chronic illness
- Transitional life events, both planned and unexpected like bereavement, divorce, family estrangement
- Late diagnosed neurodivergence
- Identity issues
- Burnout
- Work issues
- Relationship difficulties
- Finding meaning in life
