Dr. Fiona Barlow Counselling
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Testimonials


​Whilst I am happy to share with you the comments of recent clients, in order to protect their anonymity I have removed their names and any distinguishing references.
Life is full of ups and downs and the unexpected downs can be hard to cope with. I first consulted Fiona in desperation as I was struggling to make sense of events in my life. I knew I needed to do something. To be honest, I wasn’t convinced of the value of counselling. I have lots of good relationships with people and I talk…a lot. So I couldn’t see how talking to a counsellor could be any different.
But it was. The thing is, every conversation we have is restricted by unseen boundaries and filters. We seldom say what we really think because of the other person. Talking to a counsellor is very liberating...no filters, no restrictions…saying what you really think becomes quite intoxicating!
Fiona listens. When she does speak, it’s often to deliver a bombshell- a concise, to the point observation or question that becomes a ‘light bulb’ moment where you realize (often with an incredulous laugh) that you have been looking at this all wrong! You find new ways of making sense of life.
I also found that the sessions set off a kind of ‘stewing’ process in my brain. Many times, during the weeks between sessions, I would have a sudden burst of clarity on things where my subconscious had obviously been working on ideas set in motion by the counselling.  It was, at times, quite mystical and strangely reassuring. I stopped ‘beating myself up’ for not having all the answers and was content to wait for them to come.    
The sessions with Fiona were one of the most productive things I have done for my wellbeing. I will certainly go back the next time a need arises. The next time I am saddened, infuriated, confused or bewildered by life.

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​'Thank you very much for your help. When my wife died I could not see a way forward. I didn't see a future for me. Now I am building a new life and with your help I now have a future'

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''Fiona, I just thought I’d let you know that everything has turned out … We’re very happy, moving into the bungalow in January and getting married when we’ve settled in. Thank you so much for everything. I‘ve learned a lot and with your help got my life back on track.'
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'The good news is that 3 days after our last session  XXX came back and we are now back together, but this time properly. …The main reason however for me writing this is to say a very big thank you for helping me. If I hadn’t had those sessions with you I would never have had the confidence.'


Just a card to say thank you. I am so grateful for your help. I am now back to how I used to be
!
It has been a good few years since I finished seeing Fiona, but the effects of her support have been so long standing it is truly worth a mention. Having tried many different therapists over the journey of my anxiety and depression, none of them gave me any more relief than that of a sticking plaster. Fiona gave me life tools to adjust my thinking and most importantly of all to be kind to myself and follow my own path not the one expected of me by others. So thank you Fiona. I start my PhD this October, I am now on a path of fulfilment I never though possible, I’m so grateful for what you enabled me to do!

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Part of a poem written by a client......
At last glimpse the light, still not very bright,
But at least it's glimmering down in the hollow.
Things getting more clear, more solid....Oh dear.
The trouble is  I want it now.... not tomorrow!
Can't explain what has happened on this journey of mine,
But I am different, chilled, less intense, more sublime
I know I'm not fixed, in some ways a bit mixed,
But I am getting there, and will given time
Find some peace, some tranquillity and fulfilment...

and thats fine!
'Fiona, I have just had a lovely holiday. Thanks to you! I used the coping strategies you taught me  and guess what... no panics!'

​Something has happened to me and I feel as if I have finally lost the alien within me! (that horrible green sticky thing which kept lashing out !!) Can't explain it but something has happened. I feel so very different and have done so since the start of the year….Once again a very big thank you to you - I know you say that I did the hard work but you helped me so very much. I will always be pleased that I picked up that phone, dialled your number, heard your strong voice and thought 'she won't pussy foot around with me’!!!!!!​'
'Just wanted to say a big thank you for helping me find ME again, it was like being lost and you guided me back to the light. I know it’s your job but I can never thank you enough. I know I've still got a way to go but I now have faith that I will get there.​'
'My counsellor was very welcoming and understanding. I have found counselling very helpful and feel better within myself. Thank you Fiona.'
Counselling, Psychotherapy and Emotional Support to the people of Fareham, Portsmouth, Gosport and surrounding areas.

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07740 350533
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fiona@drbarlowcounselling.com
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  • Home
  • What To Expect
    • FAQ
  • Counselling Areas
    • Anxiety & Stress
    • Emotional Distress
    • Depression
    • Bereavement and Loss
    • Work Related Issues
    • Anger Management
    • Couples & Marriage
    • Divorce & Separation
    • Pre-Nuptial Concerns
    • LGBT
    • Adoption
    • Workshops & Training
  • Experience
    • Qualifications
  • Testimonials
  • Supervision
  • Contact