Welcome to Speyside Counselling Service

A safe place for healing and growth

Jennifer Upson

Welcome, and thank you for visiting.

My name is Jennifer, thank you for visiting my website. I am fortunate to be based in the picturesque village of Garmouth in Moray. I have enjoyed working in various locations across Scotland since I qualified as a Counsellor in 2006. When I started out, I worked for Aberdeen Foyer before moving on to Glasgow Council on Alcohol within a Senior Management role. While maintaining my counselling practice, I added to this the role of Counselling Supervisor in 2011. I have also previously lectured on the COSCA Counselling Skills course and am an experienced trainer.


In 2018 I took my life in a new direction and set up Speyside Counselling Service, offering face to face counselling and supervision from Garmouth and working online and via telephone across the United Kingdom. I also embarked on a soon-to-be completed degree in Fine Art at Moray School of Art in Elgin, so life is full and fulfilling.

My life experiences, as well as my professional development, have shaped me as a person and influenced my counselling approach.

My approach

I have been practicing as a therapist for over 15 years and, in this time, life, training and professional experience have shaped me into the down to earth, authentic and empathic therapist I am now.


My core training in the Person-Centred approach taught me of the importance of the relationship between client and counsellor. I have an interest in 'parts work', finding the Integrated Family Systems approach incredibly useful on my own journey. My learning continues.


I offer a safe and confidential space for you to understand and work through the challenges you are facing. In our counselling sessions you have a place where you can make sense of the past, deal with present day stresses and / or make decisions about your future.

What issues can counselling help with?

I have worked extensively with young people and adults dealing with a wide range of difficulties including:

Depression and anxiety

Relationship issues

Work-related stress

Alcohol-related problems

Self harm

Low self-esteem

Bereavement

Abuse

Loss and change

Personal development

This list is not exhaustive so please get in touch with any questions you might have.

Counselling services

I am a firm supporter of counselling and therapy, having experienced the positive impact of safe, supportive counselling relationships both personally and professionally. Please be assured that you will be met with empathy, warmth and respect and a solution-focused attitude.


We will work at your pace to bolster your autonomy and sense of empowerment: allowing you to make sense of your thoughts and feelings and gain a greater understanding of self and the world you inhabit.


Beginning the counselling process is a leap into the unknown and therefore can be a nerve wracking step but with curiosity and courage may come greater contentment.


I am a Registered Individual Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and as such, I abide by its Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions. I am also an Accredited Member of the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society.

With all of the above in mind, I am an Integrative Counsellor, and tailor my approach to the needs of the individuals coming to see me. After an introductory call, we will work together to help you identify your needs, while developing a safe therapeutic relationship.

My location

I am based in Spey Street, Moray and am easily accessible from Aberdeenshire, Aberdeen City, Highland, Elgin, Keith and Buckie.

Fees & availability

Counselling sessions last 50 minutes to an hour and tend to be take place once a week. I am flexible in this, so will work with you to decide the schedule that suits you best.

Sessions can take place either face to face, online or via telephone. These choices can make therapy more accessible.

The cost per session is £40 - £60. I offer a free initial telephone consultation, a sliding scale for fees and also provide concessionary rates on a case by case basis.


I am also happy to offer single sessions as and when required, as a 'top up' or for a very specific issue.

Get in touch

I am available via email and mobile for initial enquiries and I like to have an informal conversation with everyone who contacts me to help ease any nerves and answer any questions. Please get in touch by either of these means or by booking an introductory call.


© Jennifer Upson

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