Ainsley Proctor Counsellor/Psychotherapist - NCPS (Acc.)

Lincoln Counselling Centre

About me 

I am an Integrative therapist trained in the three main modalities of therapy, CBT, humanistic and psychodynamic.  I work in NHS hospitals where I help staff a counsellor as part of an Employee Assistance programme.   This has given me extensive experience in a wide range of mental health issues and challenges where I work to a solution focussed model.   Previously I have worked in secondary schools as a counsellor and retail in customer facing roles.  I enjoy walking, motorsport, travel and spending time with family.

My approach to counselling

I take a person centred approach to counselling which means I'm led by what you bring to the session, value a person's capacity for growth and will work with how you are feeling with empathy and compassion.  When the time comes and you're ready to end counselling I will discuss this with you and ideally plan an ending session.  There is no pressure or judgements and sessions can progress at a pace that suits you.  I believe in the power of listening, the client feeling heard perhaps for the first time which can be a powerful and liberating experience.  

If you would like a specific form of therapy then my approach can be tailored to your needs as I can be adaptable to different needs and preferences, just reach out for a chat to discuss further.

Areas I can help with 

·    Bereavement

·      Work stress/burnout

·      Relationship difficulties

·      Anxiety/attachment disorders

·      Trauma

·      Depression

·      Low self-esteem and confidence

·      Life changes

Qualifications and professional memberships 

National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society (NCPS)  Professional registrant - PNCPS (acc.)

Psychology MSc Student (Northumbria University)

BSc Therapeutic Counselling (Leeds Beckett University)

Level 4 Diploma in Counselling Practice (North Notts College)

Level 3 Counselling (North Notts College)

Level 2 Counselling Skills (North Notts College)

What you can expect from counselling

I offer face to face counselling sessions from the Lincoln Counselling Centre on the high street, easily accessible by car, bus and walking from or near the city centre.  Its convenient location makes it a perfect place and the comfortable rooms make for a relaxed experience where you are able to sit back and unpick what brings you to therapy.  No long waiting lists or limits imposed on sessions, just honest trustworthy and professional counselling that puts you at the heart of everything and in control.

In the first session a short assessment will take place to clarify your expectations, set any goals and see if we are a good fit to continue.  The assessment will not take up the whole session but will allow you space to tell me what you would like to work on.  I would also recommend at least 6 sessions weekly to begin with to build momentum and consistency and for meaningful change to occur.  Short solution focussed therapy models work to six sessions, psychotherapy can last over a longer period of time, allowing for more depth and understanding of the issue affecting you.  Either can be effective, it depends on how far you would like to go with therapy and how deep rooted the issue is and your preference.  Generally the more you put into therapy, the more you are likely to benefit from it.  Often people see changes in themselves and feel a lot lighter having had counselling, so it can be helpful to see it as an investment in your own mental health which can have lasting benefits to you for a long time.

Client Experiences at the Lincoln Counselling Centre

- Given anonymously with permission 

“Having found myself in a pretty low place emotionally - and with very little support available through the NHS - I took the decision to look for private counselling sessions with Ainsley, and I'm very glad I did.

Over the space of 8 or 9 months - his honest, flexible and professional approach allowed me to find the inner strength that has been missing for quite some time. 

I was able to talk through my issues, worries and challenges and - with his guidance - find ways and methods that worked for me to become a better and mentally stronger person. 

For those looking for help - don't hesitate. 

Thank you Ainsley for all of your support over this year.

"Help is always there for those who ask for it".

“At first I was very reluctant to give counselling a try as I had never been before. However after my first session I was completely at ease and able to speak freely in a secure and safe environment, each session helped build my confidence. After going through a very rough patch the sessions helped me navigate through my thoughts and feelings and for that I am very grateful and very pleased I took the leap to try counselling in the first place. From the sessions I’ve developed the ability to analyse and keep my thoughts in check, control my anxiety and practice mindfulness. All of these skills I have been able to take into my professional and personal life. The sessions were either in person or remote via video, the flexibility allowed me to attend sessions regardless of my proximity to the centre which was great. Lastly I want to say thank you for being a kind and engaging presence when running your sessions, I felt comfortable and able to communicate whatever was on my mind. I highly recommend the sessions as my experience was incredibly insightful and has given me the confidence and skills to push through some dark times”.

Availability and Fees

I offer flexible appointments to suit including evenings Mon-Fri til 8pm.  

Mt fee is £60 per individual session.  I offer a 5% reduction if block booking at least 6 sessions at a time.

Payments in cash are accepted or direct transfer.