I'm Alan Sherwood. I have worked with people experiencing a range of issues such as loss, grief, anxiety, low self-esteem or confidence and depression.
My life hasn’t always been that straightforward, when I left school, there wasn’t a clear plan for me. I’d been written off as ‘not very bright, won’t amount to much’. I had painfully low confidence and poor self-esteem. But somewhere deep inside me I knew that wasn’t who I had to be and I could change it. These experiences have helped make me into a counsellor that values openness and acceptance with compassion and believes that no story is ‘too much’ to be told. I’m really down to earth, I don’t judge past decisions or choices someone may have faced — instead I choose to walk with them as together we try to explore and understand those.
I’ve had an interesting career taking on some challenging and stressful roles which taught me resilience and helped me tap into my own inner strength. I spent many years working with people at their lowest points, many of whom were facing life limiting illness. I don’t believe anyone should be written off, we can all become the best version of ourselves. That’s why I offer a safe, confidential and nurturing space where my clients can explore their thoughts and feelings without judgment or agenda. A place where they can be really heard and accepted. If you’re reading this because you’re feeling really low, overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, or scared? Whatever the reason you’re not alone and I’d like to help you.
Away from seeing clients, I enjoy a simple, relaxed and grounded life that’s full of long walks with my dog ‘Ralph’, who’s a loveable, gentle and inquisitive companion. We like exploring and connecting with the beautiful countryside around us.
As a person centred counsellor, I won’t give advice or try to ‘fix’ things — instead, I offer a therapeutic relationship built on trust and authenticity. I believe that you are the expert on your own life, and that real change happens when you are supported to connect with your own values, feelings, and direction.
At the heart of my practice is a belief in the healing power of being truly heard, accepted, and understood without judgment or agenda. This belief led me to train in person-centred counselling, an approach that honours each person’s unique experience and inner potential.
It’s a privilege to walk alongside my clients and facilitate their personal journeys, and I’m deeply committed to creating a space where you feel truly seen, heard, and empowered to grow.