Welcome to Ian Higgins Counselling
Counselling and Psychotherapy in Shortlands, Bromley and Online
Counselling and Psychotherapy in Shortlands, Bromley and Online
Counselling has given me the opportunity to explore my lifelong interest in people, particularly how we think, feel, behave and relate to others. It has also given me a valuable outlet for my passion for helping others and seeing people develop into their fullest selves.
My background is in Higher Education, having worked in several different universities over 15 years. Teaching and supporting students gave me my first experience of helping others through difficult life experiences, and allowed me to develop my skills in listening to and empathising with others. Seeing students overcome the challenges and obstacles in their lives to succeed in achieving their degrees gave me a great sense of satisfaction, and encouraged me to seek out more opportunities to help people reach their goals.
As a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), I adhere to their ethical framework and values, and am committed to upholding client autonomy and wellbeing. Safe, legal and ethical practice is central to how I work, as is treating all clients equally and valuing difference and diversity.
In 2019...
I decided to begin my training, undertaking the initial Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills and Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies qualifications. These introductory courses enabled me to develop my listening and helping skills, and confirmed my desire to become a professional therapist. In 2020 I began my Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling, which included over 100 hours' of placement experience both in the NHS and in a private agency. In 2022 I completed this programme and became a qualified therapist, beginning my work in private practice that year.
In 2023...
I added to my skills by obtaining my Level 5 Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Theory and Skills, qualifying me to integrate CBT within my counselling practice. I continue to be active in learning and undertaking qualifications to improve my skills and knowledge as a therapist.
My Approach
As a therapist, my focus is on supporting each client as a unique individual and finding a way of working that best meets their needs. I take a client-centred, empathic approach, providing a safe and non-judgemental space in which clients can fully explore their thoughts, feelings and sense of self. Positive outcomes are key to how I work, with a focus on helping each client to meet their therapeutic goals and achieve lasting personal change and development.
I am a qualified therapist who has trained in an integrative approach, which means that I combine different theories: psychodynamic, person-centred, and cognitive behavioural therapy. This enables me to provide a tailored approach to meet individual client needs. As a member of the BACP, I adhere to their ethical framework in order to work legally and safely to the benefit of clients.
Initial Consultation
I offer a free initial telephone conversation of 15 minutes to discuss how I work and to give potential clients a chance to ask any questions. This enables potential clients to make an informed choice whether they wish to book a first appointment. The first appointment includes an assessment in which I will take some personal details and ask clients to complete a questionnaire about their health and wellbeing.
Session Information
Sessions last for 55 minutes and usually take place weekly at the same day and time (although in some circumstances I can provide fortnightly sessions where appropriate). I offer both in-person and remote (video/telephone) counselling. In-person sessions are available near Bromley town centre at a professional consulting room space.
I ask clients for one session’s notice to terminate their therapy with me so that we can end the counselling work safely and appropriately.
Fees
My fee for remote counselling is £35 and in-person is £50 per session. I offer a £10 discount on these rates for concessions (low income, students, OAPs, unemployed, trainee counsellors, refugees). Clients can pay by the end of the session either by bank transfer or cash. I ask that clients please provide 24 hours notice of any need to cancel or reschedule sessions, otherwise an invoice may be raised.
Get in touch
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions about how counselling works, or to arrange an initial assessment appointment. This enables us to discuss the reasons you are thinking of coming to counselling, whether it could be helpful for you and whether I am the right therapist to help.
You can also call me on +44 79562 29943 if you would prefer to leave a message or speak to me first. I am happy to discuss any queries or questions you may have prior to arranging an initial appointment.
All enquires are usually answered within 24 hours, and all contact is strictly confidential and uses secure phone and email services.