Nigel Beaumont is a therapist based in London and Hertfordshire 


What attracted you to become a therapist?

This is a second career for me, and in a way it chose me. I worked in a people-facing role for a long time and recognised the limited understanding that existed within the corporate world for the emotional wellbeing of their most important resource. I volunteered with a charity which provided telephone support to families, and this validated my interest to learn more. I had not decided at that stage to practise as a therapist, but the experiences I had in training, and the inspirational people who I met, made my choice almost inevitable. I have enjoyed every moment, connecting with people who I would not have met in any other way and offering the support and understanding that my training has enabled me to do.


Where did you train? 

I did my initial training at Regent’s College in London, it opened my eyes and mind to how therapy can be life changing. I completed my training with the Counselling Foundation.


What sort of people do you usually see?

My practice is open to everyone, and my clients are both men and women, aged from 18+, I also offer therapy to couples.


What do you like about being a therapist?

I like to see the change and the emergence of the realisation that change is possible. I feel it is a privilege to be allowed into people’s lives, and the uniqueness of the therapeutic relationship which arises from this openness.


What is less pleasant?

Erratic communications from clients. I know that circumstances sometimes get in the way of attending sessions, or even sending messages, but with so many ways of communicating, prompt responses show consideration to others who might need an urgent session. I dislike charging for non-attendance, communication can avoid that.


How long you’ve been with welldoing.org and what you think of us?

A little over a year. I like the presentation of the site and the articles and features.


Do you ever suggest books or apps to clients?

I do if it is appropriate to the therapy, also it depends on the client, sometimes a reference will deepen the client’s understanding of the therapeutic process and what is happening for them during the therapy.


What’s your consultation room like?

I use several consulting rooms which are always welcoming, comfortable and quiet. Most important particularly in Central London, I make sure they are easily accessible, with good public transport access and bike storage.


What you do for your own mental health? 

My family give me the secure base and provide the balance and strength to do the job. My supervisor is also supportive and intuitive. 


What do you wish people knew about therapy?

There is nothing to fear; the client is always in control; it should not be a last resort, but another resource to help tackle a complex and often unforgiving world. The space that therapy offers is unique: in this space change and understanding are possible.


What have you learnt about yourself in therapy?

Where do you start? The connection between two people in therapy is unique, which I consider a real privilege to experience.