Rhys Hawkins

I aim to offer a space that is:

• grounded but not rigid (I use aims as a compass for us both)
• exploratory but not overwhelming (We go at your pace - you are in control)
• supportive without being passive (Gentle challenge is sometimes necessary)

Some people come to therapy wanting space to talk. Others want something more active. Most want a bit of both. I don't see why therapy can't be as fun as it is healing and challenging. If you feel keen to explore, confused, scared or curious - I'd like to create a safe space where we can go where you want to. 

As a loose guide I use the principles of 'Meet - Connect - Grow' 

Meet - we get to know each other, and discover / hone what you need. 

Connect - we build a strong working relationship - you start to feel safer to be yourself in the therapy space. We bond over use of imagery, meditation, playful tools and lots of talking and exploration. 

Grow - we put into action what we learn along the way, moving in the directions we've agreed on and work on the aims you've chosen. 

Alongside a safe, light-hearted and warm conversation, I often draw on:

• Metaphor and imagery to make sense of complex inner experiences
• Body awareness to help you tune into what’s being held physically, not just with your thinking mind 
• Creativity and doing things together to explore things that can’t always be put into words

This might look like slowing things down, noticing patterns as they happen in the session as they emerge inside you, or experimenting with new ways of relating to yourself and/or others.

I like to see our therapeutic relationship as a safe, non judgemental and intensive 'template' - which we can branch out to how you relate to yourself and others. 

My qualifications include a Clinical Diploma in Integrative Psychodynamic Counselling, a Masters degree in Psychology, and a BA in Social Work, and a certificate in Counselling Skills.

I am seeking further training in trauma informed practice, particularly working with the body, and specialised training from Gendered Intelligence, Pink Therapy and The Queer Therapist. 

As part of my ongoing interest and commitment to providing a therapeutic space for everyone - I have personal and professional experience working with the trans community. I have also worked with young people for 8+ years as a counsellor delivering mental health support online with national mental health services. This has included delivering hundreds of online text chat and messaging sessions with young people across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum - at varying points in their own unique journeys.