Charles Neal

We are all in relationships of a great variety. Sometimes problems arise for us within one, or some, of these, whether they are familial, personal, intimate, sexual or working relationships. I enjoy supporting people in the development of their relationship, sometimes on its transformation so that each person involved can experience greater satisfaction, sometimes on ending the relationship ‘well’ together, often on communicating better or clearing up ‘unfinished business’ or different expectations.

The ‘terms’ with which I work with relationships are more or less the same as those to be found on the page about Individual work, but its important to add that I see my role as being to support the entity that is the relationship itself, so that I am not working on behalf of one or another person in that relationship. This means that everyone involved must want to be working together and be committed to that work, even though people may have different expectations or goals within this.

 It is just sometimes a good idea to see one of the people in the relationship alone for a session or two but only when this agreed by us all and is balanced by equivalent one-to-one session/s for the other/s. I will never agree to keep ’secrets’ arising from this work as they are corrosive of successful relationships. I will not see one member of the relationship for individual therapy or counselling at the same time as the relationship work is continuing or, usually, afterwards, as this, too forms a different ‘contract’ which disturbs my commitment to the relationship itself.

All these matters will be openly discussed together before starting relationship work, however, so please do call me to arrange that initial session at which what we are to do and why and how can be clarified.