Senior Occupational Therapist, Veronica Hicks Dip D.T.D.B.T, specialises in psychological therapies. She uses behavioural and cognitive approaches to help people gain additional skills and insight so they can make positive life changes.  " I have been working for Ocean Health since December 2002 offering help within the areas of psychological and emotional development.  Although I use a traditional counselling or therapeutic approach in my sessions I also offer a variety of techniques and skills to assist people in their development in specific areas; handling their relationships, emotions, and coping when in distress. In addition to my work at Ocean Health, I have been employed by Dorset Health Care Trust for the last twelve years and work in a unit that provides specialist psychological services within an individual and group setting. On a personal level, I initially pursued a career in art, completing my degree in Brighton. My interest in being creative continues and I enjoy drawing, painting and three-dimensional design. I have an interest in keep fit and enjoy jogging, the gym and country walks."

Nurse Therapist, Fiona Hamilton, specialises in psychodynamic therapies and preventative approaches. She has expertise working with groups and individuals improving their skills and insight so they are able to manage their emotions, relationships and stress.

Counselling at Ocean Health

Do I have to be mad?

No one we see is “mad”. Most people have successful, satisfying lives …. But either due to recent circumstances or changes have experienced thoughts, feelings or behaviour that are creating stress or emotional pain for them. They come with the aim of making some changes, resolving the problem and getting on with their lives.

What can counselling help with?

Counselling can help with many issues, including:

What will happen when I come and see you?

As a general rule, the first two sessions are about us getting to understand the problem. This includes understanding the problem within an understanding of your background and personality i.e: your childhood and life experiences.

The remaining six sessions are focused on solving the problem and we have a huge tool box of psychological skills that I dip into depending on the need. You then put the skills into practice during the week and report back as to how helpful it was or not.

What happens if it doesn’t help?

If someone seems to need something that we am unable to offer then we will recommend the therapy we think would be more helpful. This can be group therapy, couple counselling or an NHS referral for longer term work etc.

How much will it cost?

Can I just come for a one-off session?

You are very welcome to come  for one session to discuss the problem and no commitment is expected of you at that time.

Is it confidential?

Yes. We will ask you for your consent to send a brief letter to your GP. The only exception to this is if you have attended at your employers request and a brief summary will be sent back to them regarding the outcome of the sessions.

What is available?

We offer a range of individual and group counselling:

Where are the counselling sessions held?

All of our counselling sessions, whether for individuals or groups, are held in the privacy of our modern and relaxed consulting rooms.

We hope the above has been helpful and informative. If you have any further questions please feel free to phone and ask one of our reception team or ask to speak to me directly.