East Durham College's counselling/therapeutic service is an essential part of the services we offer to all our students to support them whilst they are studying with us. It's run by EDC staff for EDC students. All staff are fully trained professional counsellors or CBT practitioners.
The Counselling & Mental Health Therapy Service is completely free of charge and offers confidential support to all members of the college community.
Contact the Counselling/Therapy Team
No matter what you're going through, don't go through it alone. If you feel you need to speak to one of our counsellors, do one of the following:
- Contact your Progression Coach directly
- Contact Student Services
- Contact the counselling team directly
If you think you'd benefit from counselling or mental health therapy support, you can register with the EDC Counselling & Therapy Team using the Self-Referral Form at the bottom of this page.
You can also contact any one of our counsellors using these phone numbers. Don't feel like you need to call - we understand talking about things can be difficult, so just sending a text is fine.
Denise Williams: Please email at: EDCCounselling@eastdurham.ac.uk
Tracey Rowell: Please email at: EDCCounselling@eastdurham.ac.uk
Lesley Carr: Please email at: EDCCounselling@eastdurham.ac.uk
Graeme Blench: Please email at: EDCCounselling@eastdurham.ac.uk
Gabbi Maddison: Please email at: EDCCounselling@eastdurham.ac.uk
What is Counselling/Therapy?
Counselling/therapy is an opportunity for you to explore and talk about concerns you may have about. For example, about a relationship, conflicts, stress, study problems, health, practical issues, money problems, etc.
How Does Counselling/Therapy Work
By listening carefully to a person’s concerns a counsellor can help make issues and concerns clear. The counsellor accepts everyone and is not shocked by the issues raised. This non-judgemental attitude allows people to be open and honest thus expanding the possibilities for change and the routes to change. Possible routes to change and problem-solving can be discussed.
Other Available Help
The counsellors have links with various outside agencies in the area; and are willing to provide information and assist people seeking help from them.
How to See a Counsellor/Therapist
Any current EDC student can register with the EDC Counselling & Therapy Team using the Self-Referral Form at the bottom of this page.
The counselling service has a base at each of the college centres. You can also contact the counsellors on their mobile phones by text message or by calling 07506 446 455, or via email at: EDCCounselling@eastdurham.ac.uk
You can also book an appointment through Student Services/Reception, your Personal Learning Coach or any member of staff.
Help for our Apprenticeship and Work-based Learners
If you have any issues or problems whilst at work, please contact your Assessor or Placement Officer. If you wish to speak to a college counsellor directly, then contact them using the details above.
Useful Links
Mind UK
Mind's website has loads of really helpful information.
https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support
NHS Every Mind Matters
Having good mental health helps us relax more, achieve more and enjoy our lives more. The NHS have expert advice and practical tips to help you look after your mental health and wellbeing.
www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters
Headspace
The Headspace app is similar to the app above, though focuses more on meditative practices.
https://www.headspace.com/headspace-meditation-app
A Part of Me
There is an app aimed at young people that you might find helpful to recommend to those people who are experiencing grief and loss. It is a gentle game that leads people through what happens with loss and assists people in dealing with how they may be feeling.
Whilst the primary audience is 13-16-year-olds, the impact report notes it has helped a 17-year-old male amongst others.
InsightTimer
With 100,000 free guided meditations, you can meditate on InsightTimer for as long as you want without ever paying a penny. Most meditation apps say they’re free but the reality is quite different; once the starter pack finishes they quickly lock you out. InsightTimer offers the largest free library of guided meditations on earth and the world’s most loved meditation.
Suicidal Thoughts Support
If you are struggling and having any thoughts about suicide, don't be silent. Reach out to a college counsellor, a safeguarding team member or somebody you trust today.
Support