Michael Batkin Counselling in Stoke on Trent Amberfield Close, Longton, Stoke-on-trent ST3 1TZ

"Michael is an exceptional counsellor and psychotherapist. I have worked with him as his client for nearly two years. His skill and insight is in my opinion unparalleled. He has guided me to work with a complex range of issues which has in turn transformed my life. I know I will remain in contact with Michael for the rest of my life. Now as a trainee therapist I can draw on skills and experiences from my therapeutic journey that will enhance my own practice and benefit my clients. I can only conclude by saying that I placed my trust in Michael at my most vulnerable and it is was met with care and a positive regard all therapist should aspire to offer."

"As a therapist myself I recognise the importance of quality therapy, not only in healing the past, but also for addressing issues in the here and now. Mick is a talented therapist, he has taught me that all therapy and counselling is not equal, some is more powerful and effective. I speak as a client of his and a therapist who previously worked alongside him. My experience is that lasting change can be made, he offers an environment to make changes that might have felt impossible. Mick creates a safe space where you won’t be pushed or judged, there may be appropriate challenge and encouragement, but that’s where discovery and change happens. I whole heartedly recommend counselling or psychotherapy with Mick"

"I started to see Mick for my issues with food (comfort eating) and low self esteem. We worked together through many things which were the root cause of my problems and the changes in me are amazing. The quality of my life has changed beyond my expectations. The unmanageable is now manageable and for the first time in so many years I can I am truly happy with me. He has helped me through some very difficult things and with a gentleness that made it possible. It is not easy to find someone you can truly trust with the things you find so uncomfortable to face but With Mick I found a therapist that I could."

"I have seen several counsellors throughout my life for a variety of issues including depression, grief and addiction, I never felt it helped and I continued my downward spiral. Until I met Mick, who I felt understood me better than I understood myself right from the start. He made me feel at ease, safe, understood and listened to my story in a way that made me feel heard for the first time and accepted. I find it very hard to trust but his patience, experience and understanding enabled me to open up and look at painful experiences that I thought I had dealt with but was in fact just denying. Through the safety of this relationship and the skills and experience he has as a therapist, I have been able to unlock these feelings and allow what was inside out which has been incredibly healing. It does take willingness and courage but I could not recommend a better therapist to accompany you on this journey. I am now able to live life rather than exist, I have a brighter future and am no longer looking backwards and being defined by my past. I no longer suffer from depression in the way I used to and am able to enjoy and experience life without the use of substances. I don't think it is too big a statement to say he has helped to save my life and given those who love me a better mummy, daughter and friend and for that I am truly grateful."