If we find our centre and not let the lower part of our self dictate our actions and desires, we will find the harmony we wish for within us and in the world.
Read MoreALL THINGS
GROW
WITH LOVE
Confidential Islamic Counselling
Services
About
A warm welcome to Heart and Soul Therapy. My name is Ayesha Powell (she/her). I love books, spiritual wisdom from all traditions, music, art, the natural world, including all fellow sentient beings. I am in awe of the human spirit in the face of adversity, and the miraculous, vast, intricate, systems on the planet and within ourselves that always seek balance and harmony. I have been blessed with three daughters, now grown up and living independently. I live in beautiful East Sussex with my husband, two elderly house rabbits, and visiting neighbourhood cats. I am currently trying my hand at wool felting with variable success.
I am a qualified Islamic Counsellor and psychotherapist, registered with the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), fully insured and DBS checked. I have over seven years experience working with adult clients presenting with anxiety, depression, narcissistic abuse, historical child sexual abuse, inter-generational and inter-personal trauma, neurodiversity in a neurotypical so, and other common life problems. Of course, counselling is not only about dealing with mental health challenges. Some clients just need a listening ear or help with working through difficult life decisions and creative blocks.
In my work with clients from diverse genders, ethnic backgrounds, faiths and no faith, I use an Islamic Counselling theoretical approach that takes into consideration all aspects of our shared humanity and universality.Islamic Counselling is a bio-psycho-socio-political-spiritual counselling model that sees the individual as living both in this material and worldly consciousness, and one embodying an inseparable connection with the vast and ineffable pure consciousness that can be called God, the Divine or Supreme Awareness.
In this sense, the approach I take is embodied, in that it accounts for our physical body and its environment, and the impacts these can have on its well-being or 'dis-ease'. My approach is also culturally and politically aware, in that it places the individual firmly within their religious, generational, and cultural context, so they do not feel they have to explain anything, or bring only a part of themselves to therapy. And, last but not least, my approach is one of love, acceptance, presence, awareness, deep respect, compassion and safety, which allows clients a confidential and non-judgemental space to explore and unpack patterns that have led to challenges within their lives, and have made them struggle or feel stuck.
While there are a myriad tools, techniques, strategies and theories that can be used to support clients, my main intention is to build an honest, collaborative, and trustworthy therapeutic relationship, which helps clients identify patterns that have led to challenges in their lives and how this different and deeper understanding can help them manifest balance and well-being in their present and future lived experience...
I am a qualified Islamic Counsellor and psychotherapist, registered with the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), fully insured and DBS checked. I have over seven years experience working with adult clients presenting with anxiety, depression, narcissistic abuse, historical child sexual abuse, inter-generational and inter-personal trauma, neurodiversity in a neurotypical so, and other common life problems. Of course, counselling is not only about dealing with mental health challenges. Some clients just need a listening ear or help with working through difficult life decisions and creative blocks.
In my work with clients from diverse genders, ethnic backgrounds, faiths and no faith, I use an Islamic Counselling theoretical approach that takes into consideration all aspects of our shared humanity and universality.Islamic Counselling is a bio-psycho-socio-political-spiritual counselling model that sees the individual as living both in this material and worldly consciousness, and one embodying an inseparable connection with the vast and ineffable pure consciousness that can be called God, the Divine or Supreme Awareness.
In this sense, the approach I take is embodied, in that it accounts for our physical body and its environment, and the impacts these can have on its well-being or 'dis-ease'. My approach is also culturally and politically aware, in that it places the individual firmly within their religious, generational, and cultural context, so they do not feel they have to explain anything, or bring only a part of themselves to therapy. And, last but not least, my approach is one of love, acceptance, presence, awareness, deep respect, compassion and safety, which allows clients a confidential and non-judgemental space to explore and unpack patterns that have led to challenges within their lives, and have made them struggle or feel stuck.
While there are a myriad tools, techniques, strategies and theories that can be used to support clients, my main intention is to build an honest, collaborative, and trustworthy therapeutic relationship, which helps clients identify patterns that have led to challenges in their lives and how this different and deeper understanding can help them manifest balance and well-being in their present and future lived experience...
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Counselling Terms & Conditions
Important information before we start
Before we start working together, it is important we have a working agreement so we know what is required of us.
The following should answer some common questions prospective clients may have. I ask that you please take some time to read it carefully as it will help to assist in our work together. If there is anything that you are not sure about or anything you feel I may have missed, please let me know.
About my approach:
I work with an Islamic Counselling approach but I will not advise or guide you from a religious perspective. I will help you explore any areas in your life which you choose to bring to counselling and collaborate with you in finding suitable ways of supporting you through your challenges. I will work with you in a heart-centred and compassionate way and support you in making your own decisions. Counselling with me may help you gain a better understanding of yourself and your situation as a spiritual being living your life in this world, if that is what you seek. I will offer a non-judgemental, safe, and confidential space for you to explore your issues in your own time and at your own pace within our contracted time together.
Online Counselling:
I currently offer online and telephone counselling for adults. This includes:
Telephone
Webcam (or Audio) on Zoom or Skype
In the future this may include face-to-face sessions once Covid-19 restrictions are no longer in place and it is safe to do so. This will be limited to clients in London.
BACP Membership/Ethical Framework
I adhere to the Ethical Framework for Good Practice provided by BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) with which I am a Registered Member. You may find details on their website here: https://www.bacp.co.uk/ethical_framework/new_ef.php
Insurance:
I have insurance for personal liability and professional indemnity which covers me to work in the UK but I do also work with international clients.Some countries, however, such as Canada and certain states within the USA, have different legislation regarding online counselling and we would therefore need to ensure safe and legal practice in your country before our work can go ahead.
Any claims made against me are subject to UK law. I would be happy, however, to discuss any issues you might have regarding my counselling practice, and hopefully we can resolve these together.
Confidentiality:
Any therapeutic exchanges we have remain confidential and no content shall be used for any other purpose. The only time confidentiality does not apply is if I am concerned about your own or someone else’s safety, or if you express intent to break the law, in which case I may need to pass some information on to relevant parties only.
I may discuss aspects of our work with my supervisor to assist our work together and develop my practice, but your identity shall remain anonymous.
Data protection and GDPR:
Records of our work will be kept in encrypted form for no longer than two years after counselling has ceased.
I am registered with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) as a controller of sensitive data and work to their standards for storing any information about you. More information can be found at: https://ico.org.uk/
I suggest, if possible, that you use a private password-protected computer and private e-mail address for our therapeutic exchanges, and I will do the same.
Virus and spyware definitions are regularly updated on my computer –I please ask that you carry out similar safety precautions on your own computer.
I also recommend you use a private and quiet space in which to carry out your online counselling, which will feel safer for you to explore any difficult issues.
Social Media:
As this will be a professional relationship, I am unable to accept friend requests on social networking sites. Also, could I please ask that you refrain from sharing any content of our counselling sessions on any public networking sites.
How it works:
Telephone and Webcam sessions
We agree on a set day and time to ‘meet’ on-line using phone or Zoom.
Webcam sessions may be carried out with our cameras turned off (Audio only).
Online counselling sessions will last for a maximum of 50 minutes – they may be weekly or further apart depending on your requirements.
Payment:
I charge £40 per session and £25 for students/low wage clients. Please contact me if you are on benefits or in financial hardship and we can agree terms.Payment can be made by bank transfer or PayPal – preferably before you begin your counselling sessions.
Details will be sent to you once we have agreed to work together.
Appointments are scheduled according to availability. I will do my best to accommodate you within my scheduled working hours and your convenience but this may not always be possible.
Cancellation Policy:
If you cancel your arranged phone or video call session with me at least 24 hours before your appointment, you will not be charged for your missed session. If you cancel your appointment less than 24 hours before, you will still be charged for half the regular fee. I am willing to show discretion in some instances, however, when missing your appointment cannot be helped. In such instances we can arrange an alternative time for your appointment.
Unforeseen Circumstances:
If for any reason I cannot see you within the agreed time frame, such as if I have technical difficulties or I am ill, I will send you a brief text message, email or call by mobile phone or landline telephone (only if this is your preferred method of communication) to let you know, and we can make an alternative arrangement.
Similarly, if you experience any technical difficulties or illness, please get in touch as soon as possible to let me know. My mobile phone number is 07536 182045 and my email address is qalbruhtherapy@gmail.com. Please note that this is a general email address and no confidential issues ought to be shared here.
Referral:
Before counselling can commence, we will have an assessment. This is primarily to ascertain family and medical history and any risk or causes for concern. The assessment session is usually conducted over Zoom and lasts about an hour and a half. The assessment is free of charge. I speak Urdu, English and have some grasp of Arabic. An assessment does not guarantee acceptance for counselling and I reserve the right to refer you on to a more suitable therapist or Community Mental Health Team (CMHT). This will be discussed and agreed with you.
Limits of Competence:
I am fully aware of the limits of my competence as a counsellor. Generally, I cannot work with severe mental conditions such as psychosis, schizophrenia, bipolar personality disorder or other disorders, such as narcissistic or borderline personality disorders.In order to keep you and myself safe and in the best hands, I would advise you refer yourself in such circumstances to your GP immediately. If I feel that I am not able to provide you with the level of support you require (such as if I feel your mental health issues are out of my area of expertise) I reserve the right to discontinue our work together following assessment. This would be done with your own best interests at heart and carried out as sensitively as possible. I would help you to find alternative support where possible.
I ask that you please be respectful and constructive. I would rather know immediately if I have crossed any boundaries or upset you in any way, so I can adjust my language, pace, and demeanour accordingly.
Abusive, racist, misogynistic, coercive and bigoted behaviour is unacceptable to me, and I will terminate immediate any contracts and contact with clients who display such attitudes and behaviours.
Regular Evaluations:
During our work together we may regularly evaluate how the counselling is going and if it is the most suitable form of support for you at this time.
If you feel that our online counselling relationship is not working, if you require a counsellor with specific expertise, or if online work is not suitable for you, then I will help you find a counsellor to best suit your needs.
I will use standardised mood questionnaires throughout our time together to keep pace with outcomes and progress.
Complaints:
If you have any complaints about my work please let me know and we can hopefully work through and resolve these together. You have the right however to inform my professional body by contacting the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).
Telephone number: 01455 883300
Email: professional_conduct@bacp.co.uk
Feedback:
I will not ask for feedback or a testimonial but if you would like to offer either it will be gratefully received. I will always use only initials or change names and no personal details will be shared if such feedback and testimonials are published on the website.
Emergency:
As I am not available for emergency contact and cannot respond to crisis situations outside our normal session times, unless specifically agreed beforehand in our contract. If you feel suicidal, I highly recommend you get in touch with your doctor or emergency services in your area if you feel particularly distressed at any time. Alternatively, you can contact Samaritans online jo@samaritans.org or by telephone 08457909090
If you are resident outside the UK – Befrienders Worldwide is a very useful crisis support website which can direct you to a helpline in your country – http://www.befrienders.org/
Thank you for your co-operation.
©Ayesha Powell
https://www.bacp.co.uk/ethical_framework/new_ef.php
The following should answer some common questions prospective clients may have. I ask that you please take some time to read it carefully as it will help to assist in our work together. If there is anything that you are not sure about or anything you feel I may have missed, please let me know.
About my approach:
I work with an Islamic Counselling approach but I will not advise or guide you from a religious perspective. I will help you explore any areas in your life which you choose to bring to counselling and collaborate with you in finding suitable ways of supporting you through your challenges. I will work with you in a heart-centred and compassionate way and support you in making your own decisions. Counselling with me may help you gain a better understanding of yourself and your situation as a spiritual being living your life in this world, if that is what you seek. I will offer a non-judgemental, safe, and confidential space for you to explore your issues in your own time and at your own pace within our contracted time together.
Online Counselling:
I currently offer online and telephone counselling for adults. This includes:
Telephone
Webcam (or Audio) on Zoom or Skype
In the future this may include face-to-face sessions once Covid-19 restrictions are no longer in place and it is safe to do so. This will be limited to clients in London.
BACP Membership/Ethical Framework
I adhere to the Ethical Framework for Good Practice provided by BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) with which I am a Registered Member. You may find details on their website here: https://www.bacp.co.uk/ethical_framework/new_ef.php
Insurance:
I have insurance for personal liability and professional indemnity which covers me to work in the UK but I do also work with international clients.Some countries, however, such as Canada and certain states within the USA, have different legislation regarding online counselling and we would therefore need to ensure safe and legal practice in your country before our work can go ahead.
Any claims made against me are subject to UK law. I would be happy, however, to discuss any issues you might have regarding my counselling practice, and hopefully we can resolve these together.
Confidentiality:
Any therapeutic exchanges we have remain confidential and no content shall be used for any other purpose. The only time confidentiality does not apply is if I am concerned about your own or someone else’s safety, or if you express intent to break the law, in which case I may need to pass some information on to relevant parties only.
I may discuss aspects of our work with my supervisor to assist our work together and develop my practice, but your identity shall remain anonymous.
Data protection and GDPR:
Records of our work will be kept in encrypted form for no longer than two years after counselling has ceased.
I am registered with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) as a controller of sensitive data and work to their standards for storing any information about you. More information can be found at: https://ico.org.uk/
I suggest, if possible, that you use a private password-protected computer and private e-mail address for our therapeutic exchanges, and I will do the same.
Virus and spyware definitions are regularly updated on my computer –I please ask that you carry out similar safety precautions on your own computer.
I also recommend you use a private and quiet space in which to carry out your online counselling, which will feel safer for you to explore any difficult issues.
Social Media:
As this will be a professional relationship, I am unable to accept friend requests on social networking sites. Also, could I please ask that you refrain from sharing any content of our counselling sessions on any public networking sites.
How it works:
Telephone and Webcam sessions
We agree on a set day and time to ‘meet’ on-line using phone or Zoom.
Webcam sessions may be carried out with our cameras turned off (Audio only).
Online counselling sessions will last for a maximum of 50 minutes – they may be weekly or further apart depending on your requirements.
Payment:
I charge £40 per session and £25 for students/low wage clients. Please contact me if you are on benefits or in financial hardship and we can agree terms.Payment can be made by bank transfer or PayPal – preferably before you begin your counselling sessions.
Details will be sent to you once we have agreed to work together.
Appointments are scheduled according to availability. I will do my best to accommodate you within my scheduled working hours and your convenience but this may not always be possible.
Cancellation Policy:
If you cancel your arranged phone or video call session with me at least 24 hours before your appointment, you will not be charged for your missed session. If you cancel your appointment less than 24 hours before, you will still be charged for half the regular fee. I am willing to show discretion in some instances, however, when missing your appointment cannot be helped. In such instances we can arrange an alternative time for your appointment.
Unforeseen Circumstances:
If for any reason I cannot see you within the agreed time frame, such as if I have technical difficulties or I am ill, I will send you a brief text message, email or call by mobile phone or landline telephone (only if this is your preferred method of communication) to let you know, and we can make an alternative arrangement.
Similarly, if you experience any technical difficulties or illness, please get in touch as soon as possible to let me know. My mobile phone number is 07536 182045 and my email address is qalbruhtherapy@gmail.com. Please note that this is a general email address and no confidential issues ought to be shared here.
Referral:
Before counselling can commence, we will have an assessment. This is primarily to ascertain family and medical history and any risk or causes for concern. The assessment session is usually conducted over Zoom and lasts about an hour and a half. The assessment is free of charge. I speak Urdu, English and have some grasp of Arabic. An assessment does not guarantee acceptance for counselling and I reserve the right to refer you on to a more suitable therapist or Community Mental Health Team (CMHT). This will be discussed and agreed with you.
Limits of Competence:
I am fully aware of the limits of my competence as a counsellor. Generally, I cannot work with severe mental conditions such as psychosis, schizophrenia, bipolar personality disorder or other disorders, such as narcissistic or borderline personality disorders.In order to keep you and myself safe and in the best hands, I would advise you refer yourself in such circumstances to your GP immediately. If I feel that I am not able to provide you with the level of support you require (such as if I feel your mental health issues are out of my area of expertise) I reserve the right to discontinue our work together following assessment. This would be done with your own best interests at heart and carried out as sensitively as possible. I would help you to find alternative support where possible.
I ask that you please be respectful and constructive. I would rather know immediately if I have crossed any boundaries or upset you in any way, so I can adjust my language, pace, and demeanour accordingly.
Abusive, racist, misogynistic, coercive and bigoted behaviour is unacceptable to me, and I will terminate immediate any contracts and contact with clients who display such attitudes and behaviours.
Regular Evaluations:
During our work together we may regularly evaluate how the counselling is going and if it is the most suitable form of support for you at this time.
If you feel that our online counselling relationship is not working, if you require a counsellor with specific expertise, or if online work is not suitable for you, then I will help you find a counsellor to best suit your needs.
I will use standardised mood questionnaires throughout our time together to keep pace with outcomes and progress.
Complaints:
If you have any complaints about my work please let me know and we can hopefully work through and resolve these together. You have the right however to inform my professional body by contacting the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).
Telephone number: 01455 883300
Email: professional_conduct@bacp.co.uk
Feedback:
I will not ask for feedback or a testimonial but if you would like to offer either it will be gratefully received. I will always use only initials or change names and no personal details will be shared if such feedback and testimonials are published on the website.
Emergency:
As I am not available for emergency contact and cannot respond to crisis situations outside our normal session times, unless specifically agreed beforehand in our contract. If you feel suicidal, I highly recommend you get in touch with your doctor or emergency services in your area if you feel particularly distressed at any time. Alternatively, you can contact Samaritans online jo@samaritans.org or by telephone 08457909090
If you are resident outside the UK – Befrienders Worldwide is a very useful crisis support website which can direct you to a helpline in your country – http://www.befrienders.org/
Thank you for your co-operation.
©Ayesha Powell
https://www.bacp.co.uk/ethical_framework/new_ef.php
Contact
- Eastbourne, UK
- Sessions available online only, for the time being.
I am only available for appointments online. I hope to be able to provide face to face therapy, primarily in London, once restrictions are eased and I personally feel safe to do so. Please call, email, or fill out the form below for general enquiries.