About Me

A highly trained and qualified counsellor in Plymouth

I am a qualified psychotherapist and counsellor. In addition, I worked as a registered general nurse for 28 years covering a variety of areas before going into the training field with the NHS.
Janet Armstrong

About Janet Armstrong

Whilst working as a nurse, I obtained a degree in psychology with the Open University, which means I have graduate status with the British Psychological Society, with whom I am accredited. I have also achieved a master’s degree in sciences also through the Open University, this saw me exploring in detail the actions of the brain and behaviour associated with this, ageing and addiction and also carrying out some research into Attention Deficit (Hyperactivity) Disorder, something I still have a special interest in.

In 2001, I undertook a counselling certification course, and on completion I began an advanced diploma in psychotherapy and counselling, which I completed in 2005. Since undertaking this training, I have gained post qualifying qualifications in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprogramming (EMDR), Brief Solution Therapy, Stress Management and Motivational Interviewing.

I work as an integrative therapist and use a number of models. When I am working with you I will use the ones which I feel best suit your needs; this will include the use of Transactional Analysis, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Emotional Freedom Technique, Brief Solution Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing. No matter which technique I use, it will be done so with respect, care, kindness and honesty whilst honouring you and your experiences. I work with those aged 18 years or above, either as individuals or couples (which includes same sex couples) who have problems that prevent them from engaging with their life as fully as they wish. The work I undertake is done with sensitivity, compassion and without judgement, and with the aim to achieve a therapeutic relationship which allows my clients to achieve their stated changes and goals.

In my practice, I work as an integrative psychotherapist and counsellor, I also offer life coaching to clients as well as supervision to other professionals. Within my practice I offer:
  • Integrative psychotherapy
  • Integrative counselling
  • EMDR
  • CBT
  • BSFT
  • Coaching
  • Supervision
Sessions usually take place weekly or fortnightly, depending on your individual need and the model being used to address your problems and concerns. We will be able to discuss frequency of sessions when you contact me to discuss your requirements from this work. My consulting room is disabled accessible but not wheelchair accessible; if you have a disability please discuss your needs with me so that we can assess your requirements and the accessibility of my consulting room. If access is not possible then we can make arrangements for an alternative venue to be used for our consultation

My qualifications

  • Registered General Nurse (1984)
  • BSc Hons in Psychology (1995)
  • MSc in Science (2000)
  • Counselling Certificate (2001)
  • Advanced Diploma in Psychotherapy and Counselling (2005)
  • Post Graduate Certificate in Education post 16 (2006)
  • Brief Solution Focused Therapy (2007)
  • Post Qualification Certificate in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (2009)
  • Advance Diploma in Stress Management (Distinction) (2012)
  • Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing – Level 1, 2 3 and 4 (2012)
  • Accredited EMDR Therapist
  • Certificate in Clinical Supervision (2013)
  • Diploma in Eating Disorders (February 2014)
  • Advanced Diploma in Eating Disorders and Obesity (April 2014)
  • Certificate in Third Wave CBT (2016)
Confidentiality policy: I will maintain confidentiality around the work you choose to do with me unless I am required by the ethical guidelines of my accrediting body or those organisations of which I am a member to disclose information for your protection and safety or for the protection and safety of others. I will explain this policy in more detail at our initial meeting and you will be appraised of any disclosures I may need to make in accordance with the ethical Guidelines of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), the British Psychological Society (BPS) and the Nursing and Midwifery Counsel (NMC) before I do so.
Cognitive behavioural therapy
If you wish to discuss my methods or how I can work with you, contact Janet Armstrong Psychotherapy and Counselling Services in Plymouth.
Call me now on 01752 558 760 or 07889 592 689
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