Counselling in Wokingham, Reading and Online
Welcome to Clear Waters Counselling
Compassionate and confidential counselling for life's challenges
Gemma Murphy MBACP - Integrative Counsellor
Hello! I’m Gemma, a professionally-trained psychotherapeutic counsellor based in Wokingham and Reading, within easy reach of the M3 and M4. I am a registered member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy, and abide by their code of ethics.
I have a huge passion for helping people through counselling. I believe that the process of therapy can be life-changing and it’s a real privilege to be part of this journey with my clients.
I provide a safe, confidential and compassionate space free of judgement where we can explore together whatever is troubling you. At the heart of our work together is the importance of building a warm, trusting and genuine therapeutic relationship. I believe that feeling safe, heard and understood provides a strong foundation for exploring your experiences and working towards meaningful change.
I work with adults aged 18 and over, offering both short and long-term counselling. You will be welcome and accepted regardless of your culture, religion, gender identity or sexual orientation.
Alongside my private practice I have worked for Youthline counselling service since 2024 providing therapy for adults and young people.
Qualifications
- Level 5 CPCAB Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling
- Level 4 CPCAB Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling
- Level 3 CBCAB Diploma in Counselling Studies
- Level 2 CPCAB Diploma in Counselling Skills
"When someone really hears you without passing judgement on you, without trying to take responsibility for you, without trying to mould you, it feels damn good." - Carl Rogers
How Can Counselling Help?
Life can feel challenging and overwhelming at times. Sometimes we feel lost or confused. We might be trying to make sense of our past, navigating current challenges, or feeling anxious about the future. Sometimes it feels like nobody understands what you're going through and that can be a lonely place to be. You don't have to face it alone. As your counsellor I will be right there with you to listen without judgement and understand your world. Together we will explore and make sense of your thoughts and feelings to find clarity, and learn new behaviours and coping strategies to help you feel better able to manage life's challenges.
Having experienced therapy as a client myself, I understand that beginning counselling and exploring difficult emotions can feel challenging and, at times, overwhelming. I also know how valuable this process can be in helping us develop a deeper understanding of ourselves, our experiences and our relationships. Through greater self-awareness and understanding, therapy can support us in developing self-acceptance and self-compassion while creating the foundations for meaningful and lasting positive change.
"Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen" - Brené Brown
My Counselling Approach
As an integrative counsellor I recognise that every person is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to counselling. I therefore draw on a range of therapeutic approaches, tailoring our work together to your individual needs, experiences and goals:
Person-Centred Counselling
My foundation is person-centred which means I won’t tell you what you should do or give you all the answers. Instead I will listen with empathy and without judgement, creating a safe space where together we can explore what you're experiencing. You set the pace and choose what feels important for you to explore. I’m there alongside you offering support, understanding and gentle guidance as you make sense of your experiences and find your own way forward.
Transactional Analysis
I also incorporate Transactional Analysis (TA), which is a way of understanding how we relate to ourselves and to other people. It explores how our past experiences can shape the way we think, feel and respond in the present, sometimes leading us to repeat patterns that no longer feel helpful. By understanding where they come from, and noticing how they play out in your life now, we can begin to make sense of what you experience and explore new ways of thinking, feeling and responding that feel more in keeping with who you are today
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Where appropriate, I may also draw on Cognitive Behavioural Techniques (CBT) to help you explore the connection between your thoughts, feelings and behaviours. Together we can gently examine unhelpful thoughts and develop more balanced perspectives and coping strategies. CBT may help you manage challenges such as anxiety, low mood and stress, whilst building greater confidence and making changes that support your wellbeing.
What Issues Can Counselling Help With?
I have worked with a vast array of client challenges, including but not limited to:
Anxiety
Depression
Stress or overwhelm
Self esteem and confidence issues
Trauma
Grief, loss or bereavement
Life transitions
Menopause
Relationship problems
Domestic abuse
Anger management
Self-harm
Identity
Shame
Whatever you are bringing, we will explore it together at a pace that feels right for you.
"The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change"
- Carl Rogers
Fees and Location
Sessions last for 50 minutes, usually taking place on a weekly basis, either in person or online, and cost £60 per session. I have a limited number of concessionary places available for those on low-income or for students, please contact me to enquire about availability.
I ask that sessions are paid for via bank transfer in advance of the session.
If you would like to find out more, I offer a free of charge 15-20 minute phone call where you can tell me what brings you to therapy, ask any questions you may have and see if I am the right therapist for your needs.
I offer face-to-face sessions from my therapy rooms in Wokingham and Reading, with parking available onsite. I also offer online and telephone sessions for those who prefer a little more flexibility.
Get in Touch
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions about how counselling works, or to arrange a free introductory phone call. This enables us to discuss the reasons you are thinking of coming to counselling, whether it could be helpful for you and whether I am the right therapist to help.
You can also call me on 07424 756099 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 initial appointment.
All enquires are usually answered within 24 hours, and all contact is strictly confidential.