Amanda Swan

relationship-counselling-canterbury

Relationship Counselling Canterbury

 

Hello, my name is Amanda, and I’m a fully qualified Psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience supporting people emotionally in a wide range of roles and settings. I work with both individuals and couples, and my aim is always to provide a safe, non-judgemental space where you can feel understood, supported, and gently challenged.

My approach to therapy is integrative, which means I draw on a range of therapeutic models to suit your unique needs. These include emotionally focused and solution-focused approaches, which are particularly helpful in strengthening communication, deepening connection, and managing conflict – especially in relationships.

Whether you’re attending therapy alone or with your partner, my goal is to help you feel truly heard and to support you in moving forward. I believe that building trust and rapport is key to effective therapy, and I’ll always work at your pace. I’ll help you explore what’s going on beneath the surface, but also provide practical tools and strategies you can use in everyday life.

I’m someone who listens closely, respects your lived experience, and holds space for your emotions — even the difficult ones. Together, we’ll work through what’s troubling you and find a way towards clarity, understanding, and lasting change.

Qualifications

  • BSc in Psychology – University of Kent
  • Advanced Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling – National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society
  • Diploma in Counselling Skills & Theory – National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society
  • Working Directly with Trauma Certificate – National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society
  • Cruse Bereavement Care Support Foundation Course
  • Cruse Bereavement Care Safeguarding
  • Hypnobirthing Practitioner
  • Certificate in Building Awareness of Adult Autism – British Psychological Society
  • Training on Suicide and Self-Harm Online – British Psychological Society
  • Training in Safeguarding Children – Kent County Council
  • Core Learning Course – Victim Support Kent
  • Serious Sexual Violence Course – Victim Support Kent
  • Training Panel Matters – Youth Offending Service, Kent County Council
  • Training in Working with Circles of Support and Accountability
  • Restorative Justice Conferencing Course – Kent County Council
  • MA in Criminology – University of Kent

Background Experience

Over the years, I’ve worked in a wide range of services including Victim Support, Youth Offending Teams, rehabilitation of offenders, an SEN school, and Cruse Bereavement Care. I’ve supported individuals, couples, and families across different life stages and circumstances.

I’m also a qualified hypnotherapist and hypnobirthing practitioner, and trained in group facilitation, conflict resolution, and restorative justice. My background has helped me develop a deep appreciation for the social, cultural, psychological, and emotional factors that shape our wellbeing and relationships.

Living abroad as a young person and travelling extensively has also influenced my outlook. I’ve come to understand that while some aspects of human nature are universal, we all experience life differently. Being open, empathetic, and respectful of these differences is at the heart of how I work.

How I Can Help You

As your therapist, my role is to support you in finding clarity and building confidence in whatever areas of life or relationships feel challenging right now. Here’s how we’ll work together

I’ll be someone you can build trust and rapport with, so we can work together towards the goals that matter to you.

In every session, I’ll hold a safe and supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and accepted.

I’ll help you communicate more clearly and calmly, drawing on my experience in reducing conflict and improving mutual understanding.

We’ll work through whatever issues you bring, even if those concerns shift and evolve over time.

I’ll guide your therapy and support you in finding practical strategies and tools you can take away and use in everyday life.<

Whether you’re navigating a difficult relationship, feeling overwhelmed, or simply want to explore your thoughts and emotions more deeply, I’m here to help.

Types of Therapy Offered

Amanda offers support across a wide range of therapeutic areas, with a strong focus on relationship and emotional wellbeing.

  • Couples Therapy
  • Marriage Counselling
  • Emotionally Focused Therapy
  • Family Therapy
  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
  • Person-Centred Therapy
  • Psychodynamic Therapy
  • Trauma Therapy
  • Bereavement Counselling
  • Anger Management Therapy
  • Depression Counselling
  • Anxiety Therapy
  • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Therapy
  • Young Person Therapy (age 11+)
  • Career Counselling