Helen James

Psychotherapy

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Integrative and person centred creative mental health support for adults, teenagers and children.

sussex


Helen James, Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist.

(MA. Psych. BSc. Psych. PG Dip. MBACP & UKCP).


As an experienced psychotherapist and counsellor I am dedicated to

helping clients achieve their goals and explore new ways of thinking.

I provide a safe and non-judgemental space for children, adolescents,

and adults to work through their emotional difficulties.

My integrative approach allows me to tailor therapy to your specific needs, so you can find the therapy that works for you.



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Why psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy is an effective means of addressing a multitude of emotional and mental health concerns.


At my practice, I provide attachment-focused therapy that emphasises the development of interpersonal relationships and connections with others. With my support, you'll be able to explore your emotions and experiences in a safe and collaborative setting.

Natural Therapy


My training


Training in integrative (meaning different modalities combined into a whole) psychotherapy at Terapia in London has equipped me to work with a variety of therapeutic techniques, including and not limited to, art, drama, music, and play. I strongly believe in the expressive power of play and of using creative mediums such as clay, paint and sand. The integrative approach allows me to customise my approach to suit the needs of each child, young person, or adult. My focus is always based in seeking to understand the unconscious dynamics which might be adversely affecting the client’s life and in helping my clients understand themselves whilst supporting them in building a stable and healthy sense of themselves in the world. I am keenly aware of the need to develop a child or adult’s capacity for resilience, and for their sense of their own agency and identity to be fully expressed.


I have a long-standing interest in attachment difficulties and adverse childhood experiences and work from a Trauma informed position; believing firmly in establishing a sense of safety for my clients as quickly as possible, prioritising the relational aspect of the work.When working with parents, I see my role as supporting them in thinking about how to understand and support their children through difficult periods in their lives. I find working with parents and facilitating dialogue to help them better understand their children a very rewarding and important part of my work.


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Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response.

In our response lies our growth and our freedom".


Viktor E. Frankl


My experience.


I have been working with children and young people for over twenty years. Formerly working with children, teens, and adults, teaching art techniques for creative emotional expression, I went on to study Psychology, and become a Psychotherapist, specialising in children and adolescents, a career which combines my two great passions; young people and creative expression perfectly.


I have worked with the YMCA as a mentor to young people living in the organisation’s hostels in Brighton and Hove and have been involved with the Children with Diabetes (CWD) organisation, both in the UK and USA over many years. I have worked with children and young people in a range of settings, from Primary, Senior and Boarding schools all the way through to Further Education colleges and Universities in East Sussex, prior to setting up my own practice.


Until last Autumn, I also worked in an NHS Acute Adolescent Inpatient Psychological unit which gave me invaluable insight and experience in working with young people who are reluctant to engage in the therapeutic process and who are experiencing the most acute mental health difficulties.​​​​




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Specialisms:


Anxiety and Panic

Self-harm

Perfectionism

Disordered Eating

PTSD

Depression

Self-esteem difficulties

Pre and post-natal support

Parenting support

Bereavement and anticipatory grief

Simple and Complex Trauma

Chronic Illness

Relationship breakdowns



I also offer online Psychotherapy via Zoom.


Poppy Flower in Nature

What I can offer:


Weekly individual sessions, either in person (50 minutes) at my office in BN27, in Brighton or remotely via Zoom. These ​can be short or long-term to suit your preference and needs.


Parent reflective sessions where we can explore your child’s challenges and work to understand what your child’s ​presenting behaviour is communicating about their inner world and their struggles. My work in this area work integrates ​Dan Hughes' and Dan Siegel’s principles. These sessions can be for any age child, but can be especially useful for the ​parenting of teenagers or tweens. I welcome work with couples who are expecting a baby, or with mothers or fathers who ​have pre or post-natal anxieties and/depression.


For all services, I conduct an initial assessment session; offering us an opportunity to discuss your needs and for you to ​determine whether I am the right professional for you.




My fees are £65 per 50 minute session for face to face work, and £55 for Zoom sessions. I can accept insurance from ​AXA, Vitality and AVIVA.


I can offer slight reductions for booking a course of sessions in advance and I also offer a few low cost spaces where available.

(By prior arrangement).

Minimalist Still Life, Green Eucalyptus Branch and Emty Ceramic Vase on White Table by White Wall
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My peaceful garden office near Hailsham, East Sussex,BN27, has free on street parking and a bathroom available to clients.


We are also fortunate to have an incredible coffee shop right next door.


I also have a small office in Brighton.


I look forward to working with you soon.



helen@hjamespsychotherapy.com


0779 338 7810


Anonymous.

'I will always appreciate having you to lean on when we needed help the most .

We see the benefits of the work you did with our son on a daily basis as he navigates his world. His resilience to deal with tough situations is much better because of you.

Thank you for doing what you do . You helped us find our balance as a family, or at least the understanding that one day we will be balanced & until then, that it is ok to be where we are'.


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