Branching out in business

Amy Otto is a counsellor who offers therapeutic services for people dealing with all kinds of issues, from abuse and stress to bereavement. At Willow Tree Counselling, her private practice in Wrexham, she offers a warm, non-judgemental space for clients to share their issues, safely and confidentially. She also offers ‘walk and talk’ therapy in a choice of two beautiful nearby locations, or telephone/online counselling, if that’s more suitable.

AMY’S THERAPY SESSIONS ARE TAILORED TO THE NEEDS OF THE INDIVIDUAL, as everyone is unique. Her core beliefs rest with a person-centric approach, which is at the heart of her work. Her introduction of ‘creative elements’ into therapy can help to move away from the logic of ‘left-brain’ processes and into the non-verbal and deeply-emotional ‘right-brain’ processes. Sometimes it is easier to show what something feels like, rather than simply to try and describe it. This creative approach is open to both adults and young people if required. Amy holds accredited register membership of the Professional Standards Authority and as a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), she follows a set of ethical principles and guidelines that underpin her practice. Identifying a therapist that is the right fit is an essential part of embarking on a counselling journey, so Willow Tree also offers a free, short initial session. In order to find out a little more about Amy and her work, we asked her about what a counsellor’s role entails, the kind of issues Amy encounters with her clients, her working methods and what drives her on every day in her work.

What inspired you to become a counsellor?

I did my first counselling course in my early twenties, but I knew I wasn’t ready at the time to go into it. Having had my own counselling, I knew it was something I would go back to, so it was just a case of waiting for it to be the right time. I qualified in 2016 – 15 years after doing that very first course!

What type of counselling do you do?

I work in an integrative way, which means I use different counselling modalities to suit the needs of the client, as I recognise that we are all unique. My core beliefs are within a person-centred approach, which is at the heart of my work. I can also work creatively, if that suits the client.

Has being a therapist changed you? Yes! I think that my work helps me appreciate life and how precious it is, and it makes me want to make the most of my time here.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?

Still counselling I hope, but the dream is to live by the seaside, so maybe in a different location.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?

I feel it is such a privilege to be trusted with someone’s deepest secrets, or to sit with them during their saddest times. I constantly feel blessed to be doing this work and to hopefully be part of someone’s healing or growth.

And the most challenging?

I have been running my own business full-time since last summer when I left my job as a school counsellor. I have had to learn business skills such as marketing, finance and admin, which at times has felt overwhelming, but I am proud of myself for finding my way through. It can also be a really isolating job, as of course confidentiality is paramount. But I am lucky to have really supportive peers who I meet with regularly, which is much-needed at times.

What are your self-care tips?

It is vital that we find a way to look after ourselves, but it is such a personal thing. For me, I love to spend time with my friends and family, or sometimes I need some alone time, so I take myself off to a café for a treat, to sit and read my book.

I enjoy creative writing and am currently working on a poetry book, as I find writing really helps me if I am feeling overwhelmed. I also go to my local women-only gym, which is fantastic –not just for my physical health, but my emotional wellbeing too. I always have to push myself to go, but am always glad I did.

Do you do any professional development courses or training?

I think it is important that I continue to learn and enhance the quality of my work, so I love training courses. I am currently studying my Level 6 Diploma in Counselling Casework Supervision, as I felt I was ready to support other counsellors. I would love to do a master’s degree one day, but with my family commitments at the moment it’s not the right time.

Why did you decide upon the name Willow Tree Counselling?

There is a beautiful willow tree opposite my house and I am drawn to it. One of the willow tree’s traits is its’ flexibility.

We work with a wide range of sole traders and small businesses, offering business support services including preparation of payroll, bookkeeping and VAT returns, from our offices in Rossett, easily located between Chester and Wrexham.

We understand that you want to do what you do best without having to worry about the finances.

The willow tree is one of the few trees that is capable of bending without breaking. I think this is a powerful metaphor for those that are seeking recovery or a spiritual path. The message of the willow tree is to adjust with life, rather than fight it, surrendering to the process. The image of the willow tree is our path to stability, hope and healing – just like I hope Willow Tree Counselling will be for those who need it.

What would you say to anyone considering retraining to be a counsellor?

It is a big commitment in so many ways, but it is an amazing career if you feel it is for you. I am happy to chat to anyone locally that wants some more information on this, as we need to support each other.

Amy Otto Counsellor willowtreewrexham@gmail.com Tel: 07821 189081