Overview

The Benefits of Counselling

Counselling may be particularly helpful to those who are experiencing: depression, stress and anxiety, and to particularly overcome continual re occurring and ongoing negative and unhelpful behaviours.

A person may present with mild to severe depression, from low mood and sense of hopelessness and self harm. An individual experiencing anxiety may experience feelings of fear and dread and isolation to feelings of incapacitation, they may often present together and the physical manifestations can be overwhelming to the client, with symptoms including palpitations, hyperventilation, memory loss, muscle tension, headaches, dizziness, fatigue and insomnia. An assessment is often necessary to ensure the most appropriate intervention .

A selection of issues which can benefit from counselling:

  • Anxiety / Depression
  • PTSD
  • Substance and Alcohol Misuse
  • Work Related Stress
  • Loss and Bereavement
  • Relationship Breakdown / Separation
  • Trauma (Past and Present)
  • Abuse (Emotional, Sexual, Physical and Financial)
  • Guilt / Anger Issue
  • Family Work

Who is ATA Equilibrium?

ATA Equilibrium is a private counselling and psychotherapy service operated by Alison Arkle (MBACP Accred) based in Darlington, County Durham. Taking a range of clients from around the North East, areas including but not restricted to: Darlington, Middlesborough, Stockton, Teesside, Teesdale, Durham, Barnard Castle, Newcastle, North Yorkshire, Bishop Auckland, Richmond, Newton Aycliffe and Hartlepool.

A picture of the treatment room.
A picture of the waiting room.

Due to Alison Arkle’s many years of experience working as a counsellor and DBS check (Certification No. 00148563291), ATA Equilibrium is able to offer services to deal with complex psychological issues in both adults and children.

What should I expect?

The process will start with an initial consultation via your preferred method, such as a face to face meeting or a telephone call. Within this meeting an assessment will be completed to determine any factors that need addressing, for example: mental health issues; family circumstances and issues / traumas; unwanted behaviours and unhelpful repetitive cycles.

This is followed up with an informal discussion to understand any areas of concern that you might have, and what your desired outcome would be. At this point we would be able to talk about treatment timescales and agree a preferred method of payment.

Treatment Objectives

  • To enable changes and to enhance overall well being.
  • Alleviate negative thought patterns and cycles of behaviour.
  • Create a balanced mind, leading to less stress, anxiety, confusion and an overall enhanced quality of life.
  • Personal self growth and heightened self awareness.
  • The ability and clarity to make more appropriate and beneficial choices that have a positive impact on overall quality of life.

About Me

A picture of Alison Arkle

Who am I?

Following the completion of my English and Linguistics degree in 1995, I embarked on a career change that I had always wished to pursue. I qualified as a counsellor in 2005, after a 1 year placement with children’s services, required as part of my training.

Following on in April 2005, I commenced with the Youth Offending service / Parenting service (within Darlington Borough Council). My role was as a senior counsellor, a challenging and variable position, which involved counselling individuals with complex needs.

In 2009 I worked for ‘Neca’ a charitable organisation supporting and treating those who where involved in addictions. I am a thoughtful, warm, adaptable, confident and non judgemental individual. Focusing on each client, as a unique individual with differing requirements.

Experience

With over fourteen years, post qualification experience working in the public sector (youth offending, social services) and a charitable organisation (substance and alcohol service), In 2015 I felt in a position to open my own private practice. I have had an extensive knowledge of working with a broad client base, and a varied range of complex issues. I use a variety of theoretical and integrative approaches to adapt to the requirements of individuals specific needs. In March 2015, to the present date. I am employed by Insight Healthcare, as a High Intensity Therapist. This is an IAPT Service (Improving Access to Psychological Therapies) – offering short term therapy for Depression, Anxiety and Stress. The role also includes working with complex needs and DSPI clients (Darlington Suicide Prevention Intervention).

Accreditation

Find out more about the BACP

I am fully accredited with the British Association for Counsellers and Psychotherapists (BACP). BACP accredited status ensures a commitment to high standards, enabling the public to have confidence that the therapist works ethically, is trained and fully qualified. The BACP state that accredited counsellors have 'surpassed registration standards and demonstrated, mature competence in counselling training and practice'.

Testimonials

"Prior to entering counselling I was a sceptic. I thought it was for others but not for me. Through counselling I have been able to talk about my feelings and emotions, without prejudice. Talking of my fears and problems has helped me come to terms with my past. I have been able to make changes, and accept things I can not change. I no longer suffer from depression and my anxiety is practically 'Non existent'."

"Counselling isn’t a miracle cure and is certainly not easy but I would truly recommend it to anyone struggling with their life, and have discovered a great deal along the way."

"I have found that talking to Ali on a one to one basis has helped me to find a way to step out of the shadows and start to live my life. I can now deal with consequences without guilt or fear, which is a huge relief. Through Counselling I have found the courage to live again, instead of giving up, whilst it may be hard work, I have gained the knowledge to keep myself safe, happy and healthy."

Contact And Fees

Contact

  • Alison Arkle MBACP (Accred)
  • Tel: 01325 720072
  • Mobile: 07976 679443
  • Email: arkleali@hotmail.com

Location

  • Suite 103
  • Imperial Centre
  • Grange Road
  • Darlington
  • DL1 5NQ

Fees

  • £40 - Standard Session
  • £50 - Home Visit Session
  • Discounted rates available for
  • students and long term bookings

Appointments

  • Weekdays
  • 9.00am – 5.00pm
  • Evening appointments available on request.

Late Cancellation / DNA Policy

Please provide at least 24-hour notice wherever possible, when cancelling an arranged appointment. Late cancellations greatly impact on small businesses, and can rarely be re filled. For this reason, it has been a requirement to implement a late cancellation fee of £25.00, if an appointment is cancelled with less than 24 hours' notice. (except under exceptional circumstances).