Andy Bateman

• B.A. (Hons).
• P.G.C.E.
• Dip. Couns.
• MBACP.

I have a background of over ten years work with families and young people in social work and educational settings. Since I qualified I have worked with clients in private practice and in prison college and school. I work with any client over the age of eleven and have had in depth training in young peoples' issues and in parenting work.

Counselling can be a process taking a few sessions or a longer process depending on what want to talk about and what your aims are. I am happy to work either short or long term depending on your needs.

There may be many reasons why you may consider counselling. You may be experiencing confusion anxiety under achievement compulsion to behave in certain ways difficulties in relationship depression or other troubling or saddening experiences. You may be seeking support to deal with a crisis in your life.

I aim to make a relationship between us that feels as safe and as equal as possible. I will accept you and not judge the things you have to say. I believe this way you will find your own answers.

When it seems appropriate I may share what I hope will be useful thoughts. I won't assume I am "right" or try to impose a fixed view on you. It's part of working together to try to find what works for you.

I may suggest different techniques or ways of working. I will discuss them with you and answer any questions you may have. I will be trying to match the ideas and experience I have to your needs. They are suggestions only and I will ensure you are in control of what happens in the session.

I have invited clients to draw make diagrams sculpt with pebbles discuss photographs. I will listen to your ideas and try to sense what may work for you. For lots of clients just talking and being listened to seems to work fine without any special techniques. Just to feel really listened to often makes a big difference.

Clients I have worked with include:

• Male and female survivors of sexual abuse.
• Gay clients including gay parents.
• Clients from a range of racial and religious groups.
• Young people over the age of eleven.
• Young people and adults being bullied at work school college or in the family.
• Those experiencing depression.
• Those who have become isolated from others.
• Those having difficulty with parenting issues.
• Those dealing with bereavement or other loss.
• Those having difficulty with guilt.
• Those dealing with their own or others' issues addiction.
• Young people with family difficulties.
• Those having difficulties with anger.
• Those with relationship difficulties.

I live and work in Sheffield. I have a partner and two sons one grown up and one still living with me. I love mountains and the outdoors.

I am available Wednesday mornings and Monday afternoons and some other times by arrangement.