Welcome to Positive Changes Counselling

Positive Changes Counselling offers help for individuals, couples, families and businesses. The counselling at Positive Changes is provided by Dave Bamford, a professional counsellor with almost 20 years experience. 

MY COMMITMENT:

(1) I am very protective of each person's dignity and self-esteem. We have all made lots of mistakes. However, it is vitally important to me that you always feel respected and that no one ever feels judged.

(2) I am very sensitive to the differences between men and women when it comes to counselling. Frequently, a man's sense of personal privacy and other factors, leads us to be less than comfortable with the idea of counselling. (In fact, many of us men would prefer a root canal to seeing a “shrink“.) I have spent years reassuring men that this discomfort is normal, that they and their strengths will be recognized and respected and providing the support that makes counselling both comfortable and productive.

(3) I work to create an atmosphere of emotional safety, which goes beyond blaming. This safe environment promotes honesty and breakthroughs. Thus, no one needs to be cheated out of his/her relational and personal dreams. As trust builds, I also hold up a mirror of reality which promotes increased self-awareness. Then each can see his/her areas which need growth (or are actually destructive), is supported to take responsibility for the needed changes and provided with the skills and insights which empower people to achieve these changes.  

(4) I want everyone to feel comfortable with the different counselling approaches being used. From  years of experience, I usually have a number of approaches that work for any need. I urge clients to speak up so that we find the approach that works best for you!

(5) Counselling sessions are completely confidential. No information will be released about you without your written consent. Exceptions are child abuse, which by law must be reported. If you are believed to be a danger to yourself or someone else, others may need to be notified. Finally, courts may subpoena counselling records. The latter is rare and has never happened in my practice.