James Walford
INTEGRATIVE COUNSELLOR
Approach and background
As an Integrative Counsellor, I draw on a range of therapeutic theories to build a tailored approach that adapts to your individual needs.
I offer a non-judgmental space in which we can explore whatever is affecting your life. Together, we'll look at how you think and feel about your past, deepening your understanding of why you feel the way you do in the present. By bringing unconscious thoughts into awareness, greater self-understanding becomes possible. Alongside this reflective work, I draw on techniques such as mindfulness-based stress reduction to support positive psychological change and build resilience.
I am also neurodivergent — I have ADHD and autism — and I know first-hand how challenging it can be to navigate a world designed for neurotypical people. I aim to offer a space where you can explore your differences openly, and where we can work together to develop self-awareness and coping strategies that help you find your own way forward.
Through both my private practice and my work for the NHS, I have supported a wide range of clients with many different presenting issues. A strong therapeutic relationship, built on trust and empathy, is at the heart of what I do and is the foundation from which we can begin your journey towards greater peace, contentment, and well-being.
I work with a broad range of concerns affecting mental health, with particular experience in anxiety, depression, stress, grief, addiction, and relationship difficulties. Past trauma often plays a significant role in how we feel today, and by exploring these experiences with care and sensitivity, we can begin the process of healing.
Training, qualifications, and experience
I am a qualified Integrative Counselling Psychotherapist and have completed a diploma in Integrative Counselling.
I spent a year living off grid in Spain and this experience taught me the importance of connecting with nature and of taking life at a slower pace. It was during this period that I learned to meditate. Meditation gave me a daily practice which allowed me to take a step back from my thoughts. This has greatly helped with both my anxiety and depression. I now teach meditation to complement my counselling work.
I taught English in Cambodia and learned from this that I liked working with people and wanted to be in a profession where I felt like I was helping to make the world a better place.
I have experience working with the NHS talking therapies program and in private practice.
I was drawn to the counselling profession after I made a recovery from substance addiction. A diagnosis of Crohn’s disease at age 10 was traumatising and resulted in severe anxiety and depression. This led to me becoming a substance addict to try and self-medicate. After surviving a suicide attempt in 2017 I decided there had to be a better way. Using counselling, meditation and exercise I managed to reach a place of inner peace. I found my counsellor such a helpful part of my recovery. I decided I wanted to retrain and help others who were struggling with their mental health.
I am a registered member of the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (BACP) whose code of ethics I abide by.
Diploma in Integrative Counselling @ The Awareness Centre 2024
Level 2 Counselling Skills @ East Sussex College 2021
Level 1 Certificate in Interpersonal Skills @ East Sussex College 2021
BA in Psychodynamic Counselling
Availability, fees, and contact details
I offer all my slots in-person and online.
I offer weekly and fortnightly sessions.
I offer appointments from:
10am-8pm on Mondays
9am-8pm on Tuesdays
10am-8pm on Thursdays
9am-6pm on Fridays
I do have some flexibility so please get in touch for current availability.
I offer a free initial call and sessions are from £60-£80 for individuals and £100 for couples thereafter.
You can contact me on Jwalfordcounselling@gmail.com or on 07935948235