As I step into a new year here at Jorvik Talking Therapies, I’ve been reflecting on what this time of year often brings for many of us. I work alone, offering private counselling in York, and on-line nationally, and every January I’m reminded of how powerful it can be to pause, breathe, and consider where we’ve been—and where we hope to go.
The New Year can feel like a fresh start, but it can also bring pressure, expectations, or a sense that we “should” be doing more. In my work as a York counsellor, I often see how these feelings can impact people’s emotional wellbeing. So instead of rushing into resolutions, I like to think about intention, compassion, and gentle self-awareness.
Letting Go of Last Year’s Weight
Before we look ahead, it’s important to take a moment to acknowledge the year we’ve just lived through. You may have faced stress, anxiety, loss, burnout, or changes that you didn’t choose. You may also have found moments of connection, strength, or unexpected joy.
When I begin the therapy process with someone, reflection is often the first step. I invite you to think about:
- What challenged me last year, and what helped me through it?
- What small moments am I proud of?
- What emotional weight am I ready to put down?
This kind of mindful reflection can create mental space for growth—something I support clients with in my talking therapy sessions.
Setting Intentions Rather Than Pressure
In counselling, I often explore the difference between strict resolutions and meaningful intentions. Resolutions can sometimes create pressure, especially if you’re already dealing with stress, anxiety, or low mood. Intentions, however, encourage direction rather than demands.
A few gentle intentions might be:
- “I want to take better care of my mental health this year.”
- “I want to be kinder to myself.”
- “I want to build healthier boundaries in my relationships.”
These are all areas I frequently work on with clients seeking *mental health support in York*.
Building Emotional Resilience in the New Year
The start of a new year doesn’t magically remove the challenges of everyday life—but therapy can help you face them with greater resilience. In my practice, people often come to me for:
- anxiety support
- stress management
- relationship or family difficulties
- low self-esteem
Help processing past experiences
My approach is warm, compassionate, and collaborative. I work alongside you at your pace, helping you understand patterns, emotions, and behaviours so you can create meaningful, lasting change.
If You’re Thinking About Counselling in York This Year
If you’re considering therapy in York or online, please know that you don’t need to have everything figured out before you start. Many clients come to me unsure of what they need—just knowing they want to feel better, lighter, or more grounded.
You can find more information about how I work and the support I offer on my website, jorviktalkingtherapies.com.
A Kind, Gentle Start to the Year
As we move into the New Year, I hope you can give yourself permission to slow down, be curious, and take small steps toward understanding yourself more fully. Growth doesn’t come from pressure—it comes from patience and compassion.
If you feel ready to talk, or you’re simply curious about whether therapy might help, I’m here.
From my small, calm counselling space in York, I wish you a peaceful and hopeful start to the year.