About Stacy Ismael Counselling

Personal Journey to Counselling

In 2007, I began my journey to becoming a counsellor after being diagnosed with post-natal depression, anxiety and panic attacks. It was then that I had my first counselling sessions. Initially, I was unsure if counselling would be helpful, but it turned out to be life-changing for me. As I relaxed and embraced the therapeutic process, I not only worked through my depression and anxiety but also started processing past traumas and grief that I had carried for too many years.

Being able to express my innermost thoughts and feelings to my counsellor in a safe and supportive space was liberating. It gave me the opportunity to reflect on my past, recognise destructive patterns in my behavior and contemplate how I wanted my life to be moving forward. It also gave me the courage to find my voice in relationships and acknowledge the validity of my needs. It was like rays of sunlight emerging from behind grey clouds.

Now, my passion and aim are to provide my clients with a similar positive and life-transforming experience. I am determined to break down the negative stigma attached to mental health by offering help to those who reach out to me.

Throughout my counselling journey, I have worked with clients from diverse backgrounds, dealing with various issues. These include:

Childhood trauma

Bereavement

Relationship challenges

Family conflicts

Parenting difficulties

Work-related stress

Feelings of loneliness and isolation

Struggles with low self-esteem. 

My Personal Calling and Professional Commitment

Bereavement counselling, including early bereavement support, has become a particular calling for me. I volunteer weekly at a local bereavement charity, driven by the desire to be there for those experiencing loss.

Today, I am trained primarily as a person-centred counsellor (CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling) and, as a member of the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (BACP), I adhere to their Ethical Framework and receive monthly confidential supervision to ensure I am providing the best possible support.

I have also completed extensive bereavement training (including infant loss) and regularly engage in continuing professional development (CPD) to expand my knowledge and skillset, making sure I can offer the most effective assistance to my clients. My dedication to growth and supporting others is unwavering.

Get in touch

Feel free to contact me if you have any questions or to arrange an appointment.


You can also call me on +44 7494 107849 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 appointment.

All enquires are usually answered within 24 hours, and all contact is strictly confidential and uses secure phone and email services.

Are you in crisis now?

If so, please click here to be directed to The Samaritans website or call the UK Helpline on 116 123

Frequently asked questions

What happens during the 15 minute, free consultation?

This is just an informal chat for me to introduce myself and for you to tell me what brings you to counselling. I will explain how I work and if I feel I am able to help you. Remember, it’s important to find the right counsellor for you.

Is there much paperwork to complete?

No, if we agree that we can work together, I will email to you my contract for counselling which will need to be either signed online or handed to me at the beginning of our first session.

What happens during our first session?

I will verbally go through the contract for counselling to ensure you understand the terms. We will then complete a short assessment to identify how you are feeling in the moment and any goals you wish to work towards, and collect some contact information.

I’m worried about confidentiality. How can you ensure this?

I treat confidentiality very seriously and am a member of the ICO. I will explain more about it in our first session. If you want to know more now, click here to read my privacy policy.

Anything else come to mind?

I’m happy to answer any other questions you may have. Please click here to complete my contact form and write your query in the box provided

What's best, in-person or online sessions?

We can discuss this in our informal chat. You may prefer the intimacy of an in-person session or find it is easier for you to have your sessions online from the comfort of your home. There’s no right way, only the right way for you.

How do I make payment?

I will send a payment link to you 48 hours before your first session. Payment is kindly requested at least 24 hours before your session is due to commence. If you have any problems with this, please just let me know and we can make alternative arrangements.

How many sessions will I need?

This varies from client to client. Some may need four to six and others twelve, some clients prefer open ended sessions. Whatever you decide, this is completely flexible and I will review where you are regularly throughout the counselling process.

It’s been a long time since my loss and I’m not sure if it’s just bereavement counselling I need?

Bereavement counselling is helpful at any stage in your loss journey, sometimes years later. As I work in a person-centred way, it is your choice to bring to each session whatever you feel you need to.

My location

I am based in Essex and offer both in-person and online sessions.

In-person sessions take place from two locations: Barkingside, IG6 and Buckhurst Hill, IG9. Both therapy centres are confidential, relaxing and immaculately presented.

Availability

I am available for in-person and online sessions:

  • Monday to Friday between 9am and 8pm
  • Sundays between 1pm and 8pm.


To arrange a complimentary 15 minute, confidential consultation to discuss your needs by telephone, please click here to complete my contact form and lets have a chat about how I can best help you.

Fees

In-Person Counselling Sessions

£65 per session

Online Counselling Sessions

£55 per session

I also offer up to 6 online low cost sessions for those experiencing financial difficulty please just ask.


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