About Nic Boniface Counselling & Therapy Services

---

Welcome to my website. I’m a humanistic counsellor deeply committed to helping individuals navigate their unique life journeys with compassion, empathy, and understanding. My own path in therapy began with a daunting first session that I’ve never forgotten. Wrapped up in defensive coping strategies, just sitting with my counsellor, let alone talking about ‘me,’ felt scary and emotionally painful. That experience was a pivotal moment, leading to profound personal growth and the realization of becoming my own best friend, accepting and embracing all parts of myself.

I specialize in bereavement and have personally experienced the indescribable pain of complicated loss, which has given me deep empathy and insight into the grieving process. With many years of experience in addiction and recovery, hospice care  counselling training, and living with ADHD, I bring a rich tapestry of understanding to my practice, which is inclusive and not gender critical. My work is guided by a core belief in the healing power of genuine human connection and spiritual insight.

If desired, I can integrate Reiki into my practice to offer a holistic approach to well-being. This would only be introduced after we have established our working relationship and if you felt it was something you wanted to explore. Reiki can help find balance and healing in a supportive, nurturing environment. I also offer Reiki sessions independently of counselling.

Throughout my career, I have worked with a wide variety of life issues, some of which are detailed below. However, every individual’s experience is unique. If you do not see your struggle listed, please don’t hesitate to reach out for a conversation about how I can assist you on your journey. Together, we can explore the challenges you are facing and find a path forward that honours your personal needs and aspirations.

I am also a Clinical Supervisor in private practice and a CPCAB Counselling Tutor.

I offer a complimentary 15-minute introductory session with no fee or obligation, which can be done face-to-face or remotely via Zoom.

For counselling and supervision, I offer in-person sessions in Gillingham (close to Hempstead Valley) (ME7), Strood, and Rochester, as well as remote sessions via Zoom. For Reiki, I work from Gillingham (ME7) and Sittingbourne.

 Addiction can feel like an all-consuming struggle, affecting not only your life but also the lives of those around you. It’s a challenge that can seem insurmountable, but recovery is possible.  I have over a decade of experience running a residential rehab for men and women in recovery from substance misuse,  and I understand the complexities of addiction and am here to support you on your journey toward healing and lasting change. Addiction can carry a heavy burden of shame, guilt, and isolation. In our work together, I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can explore your struggles openly and honestly. My approach is rooted in empathy and respect, recognizing that addiction is not a moral failing but a complex condition that requires understanding and support. With over ten years of experience in a residential rehab setting, I’ve had the privilege of working with many individuals at various stages of their recovery journey. This experience has provided me with a deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs that come with overcoming addiction. I bring this knowledge into our sessions, offering insights and strategies that have helped others rebuild their lives and achieve lasting sobriety. Every person’s experience with addiction is unique, and so is their path to recovery. Whether you’re struggling with substance misuse, behavioural addictions, or related issues, our work together will be tailored to your specific needs, goals, and circumstances. We’ll explore the underlying factors that contribute to your addiction, whether they’re emotional, psychological, or situational, always with an eye toward your overall well-being. Recovery is not just about abstaining from substances or behaviours; it’s about rediscovering who you are without them. My humanistic approach focuses on empowering you to reconnect with your strengths, values, and aspirations. Together, we’ll work on building resilience, developing healthier coping strategies, and nurturing self-compassion. The goal is to help you create a life that feels meaningful and fulfilling, free from the grip of addiction.  Addiction affects every aspect of life - physical, emotional, and relational. Our sessions will take a holistic approach, addressing the many dimensions of your experience. Whether we’re focusing on managing cravings, healing past traumas, or rebuilding relationships, the process will be guided by what feels most relevant and helpful to you. I believe in the power of a supportive therapeutic relationship to foster lasting change and growth.  Taking the step to seek help for addiction is an act of courage and hope. With my extensive experience in the field and a deep commitment to your well-being, I’m here to support you every step of the way. Together, we can work toward a future where addiction no longer controls your life, allowing you to embrace a healthier, more empowered way of living.

 When someone you care about is struggling with addiction, it can feel like your world has been turned upside down. You may be experiencing a range of emotions - fear, anger, guilt, shame, sadness, or helplessness as you navigate the challenges of  caring and or loving someone in the grip of addiction. In our work together, I offer a compassionate space where you can explore your feelings, gain clarity, and find ways to care for yourself while supporting your loved one.  

Addiction doesn’t just affect the individual struggling with it, it impacts everyone around them. With over a decade of experience in addiction recovery, including running a residential rehab for men and women, I understand the complex dynamics that can arise in families and relationships when addiction is involved. My approach is grounded in empathy, recognizing the profound emotional toll that addiction can take on loved ones.  

It’s common to feel overwhelmed, confused, or even isolated when dealing with a loved one’s addiction. You might be unsure of how to help or how to set boundaries without feeling guilty. In our sessions, you’ll find a safe, non-judgmental space where you can express your feelings and concerns openly. Whether you’re dealing with anger, fear, or sadness, I’m here to listen and support you as you navigate these complex emotions.  It’s easy to lose yourself in trying to help someone you care about who is struggling with addiction. However, it’s crucial to remember that your well-being matters too. My approach emphasizes the importance of self-care and personal boundaries. Together, we’ll explore ways you can support your loved one without sacrificing your own mental, emotional, and physical health. This might involve learning to set boundaries, developing coping strategies, or simply finding time for self-compassion and reflection.  Loving someone with an addiction often involves making difficult decisions and having challenging conversations. Whether you’re unsure how to approach your loved one, struggling with feelings of guilt, or considering your role in their recovery, I can help you explore these complex issues. 

My goal is to empower you with the tools and insights you need to make informed decisions that honour both your needs and your loved one’s recovery journey.  The effects of addiction on families and relationships can be long-lasting, even after recovery begins. In our work together, we’ll focus on healing and rebuilding, both for yourself and in your relationships. This process may involve working through past hurts, strengthening communication, and finding ways to reconnect with your loved one in a healthy and supportive manner.  Reaching out for help when someone you care about is struggling with addiction is an act of strength and love. If you’re ready to begin your journey toward healing and empowerment, I’m here to support you. Together, we can work through the challenges of loving someone with an addiction, helping you find balance, peace, and a path forward.

Growing up with a parent who struggles with addiction can leave deep and lasting impacts on your life. As an adult, you might find yourself grappling with unresolved emotions, trust issues, or patterns that continue to affect your relationships and sense of self. In our work together, I offer a compassionate space where you can explore these experiences, heal from the past, and build a more empowered future.  Being the child of an addicted parent often means carrying burdens you were never meant to bear. You may have taken on adult responsibilities too early, faced instability or neglect, or lived with a constant sense of uncertainty and fear. These experiences can shape your view of the world and yourself in profound ways. With over a decade of experience in addiction recovery, including running a residential rehab, I understand the complex dynamics that can arise in these situations and how deeply they can affect you as an adult.  Talking about your experiences as the child of an addicted parent can be incredibly challenging. You might struggle with feelings of anger, sadness, guilt, or confusion, and these emotions can be difficult to navigate alone. In our sessions, you’ll find a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your feelings and experiences openly. I am here to listen with empathy, to help you make sense of your past, and to support you in finding ways to heal.

Many adult children of addicted parents find themselves caught in patterns of behaviour or thoughts that were shaped by their childhood experiences, whether it’s difficulty trusting others, a tendency toward perfectionism or people-pleasing, or struggles with self-worth. Together, we’ll work to identify these patterns and understand how they have impacted your life. My approach is focused on helping you break free from these cycles, empowering you to create healthier, more fulfilling relationships and a stronger sense of self.

Healing from the impacts of growing up with an addicted parent isn’t just about addressing the past; it’s also about moving forward with greater strength, clarity, and self-compassion. In our work together, we’ll focus on empowering you to reclaim your life, build resilience, and embrace your own needs and desires. This might involve developing new coping strategies, exploring your identity beyond the roles you had to play in your family, or finding ways to nurture your emotional and mental well-being.  Your past does not have to define your future. While the effects of having an addicted parent can be long-lasting, it is possible to heal and build a life that reflects your true self, free from the shadows of the past. Our sessions will be a journey toward reclaiming your story - one where you are the author, with the power to create a life that is meaningful, fulfilling, and true to who you are! Taking the step to seek help is an act of courage and self-love. If you’re ready to begin your healing journey as an adult child of an addicted parent, I’m here to support you. Together, we can work through the challenges you face, helping you find peace, empowerment, and a path forward.

Receiving a life-changing or limiting health diagnosis can be a deeply overwhelming experience, bringing with it a flood of emotions, fears, and uncertainties about the future. It’s a moment that can shake your sense of self, your plans, and your understanding of what life holds. If you’re facing such a diagnosis, I’m here to offer compassionate support as you navigate this challenging time, helping you find strength, resilience, and a path forward.  When confronted with a significant health diagnosis, it’s natural to experience a wide range of emotions—fear, anger, sadness, confusion, or even numbness. These feelings can be difficult to manage on your own, and you may be unsure of how to move forward. In our sessions, you’ll find a safe, non-judgmental space where you can express your emotions freely. I’m here to listen with empathy and without judgment, allowing you to explore your feelings and fears openly.  Coming to terms with a life-altering diagnosis often involves a process of acceptance—of the changes it brings, the limitations it may impose, and the adjustments you’ll need to make. This process can be challenging, but it’s also an opportunity to find new ways of living meaningfully within your new reality. Together, we’ll work on understanding what this diagnosis means for you and finding ways to adapt that honour your needs, values, and desires.  A life-changing diagnosis can prompt a revaluation of what matters most to you. Whether it’s your relationships, your goals, or your day-to-day activities, we’ll explore how to focus on what brings you meaning and fulfilment. Our work together will aim to help you connect with what is most important in your life, finding ways to nurture these aspects even in the face of new challenges.  Facing a serious health diagnosis requires resilience, not just physically, but emotionally and mentally as well. We’ll work together to develop coping strategies that support your well-being, whether it’s managing stress, dealing with uncertainty, or finding ways to stay connected to your sense of self. My goal is to help you build the resilience needed to navigate this new chapter of your life, empowering you to face challenges with strength and hope.  A significant health diagnosis can also impact your relationships, sometimes creating feelings of isolation or strain. Whether you’re struggling with how to communicate your needs to loved ones, feeling distant from those who don’t understand your experience, or simply needing support in maintaining connections, I’m here to help. Together, we’ll explore ways to strengthen your relationships and ensure you feel supported by those around you.  While a life-altering diagnosis can change your life in many ways, it doesn’t mean that hope and possibility are lost. Our work together will focus on helping you embrace a future that, while different from what you may have planned, is still full of potential for joy, connection, and meaning. I’ll support you in finding ways to move forward with a sense of purpose and hope, even in the face of uncertainty.  Facing a life-changing or limiting health diagnosis is one of the most challenging experiences you can go through, but you don’t have to go through it alone. If you’re ready to seek support and begin your journey toward acceptance, strength, and resilience, I’m here to help. Together, we can navigate this new chapter of your life, finding ways to honour your experience while embracing the possibilities that still lie ahead.

 Grief and loss are among the most profound experiences we can face, touching every part of our lives in ways that can be overwhelming and deeply painful. Whether you’ve lost a loved one, experienced the end of a significant relationship, or are grieving another type of loss, it’s important to know that you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. I’m here to offer compassionate support as you work through your grief and begin to find healing.  Grief is a deeply personal and unique experience. There’s no “right” way to grieve, and everyone’s journey through loss is different. In our sessions, you’ll find a safe, non-judgmental space where you can express your feelings openly, whether you’re experiencing sadness, anger, confusion, or even numbness. I am here to listen with empathy and respect, allowing you to grieve in the way that feels most natural to you.  The loss you’re experiencing is yours alone, shaped by your relationship with what or whom you’ve lost, your life experiences, and your individual emotional landscape. I believe in honouring the uniqueness of your grief journey. Our work together will be tailored to your specific needs and the ways in which you’re processing your loss. Whether your grief is fresh or something you’ve carried for years, we’ll move at your pace, focusing on what feels most meaningful to you.  Grief can feel all-encompassing, but over time, it’s possible to find a sense of meaning and healing. Our work together will focus on helping you process your grief, understand your emotions, and begin to integrate your loss into your life in a way that allows you to move forward. This doesn’t mean forgetting or “getting over” your loss, but rather finding a way to carry it with you in a way that honours your experience and the person or thing you’ve lost.  Grief can bring up many challenges, from dealing with the practicalities of loss to managing the emotional and psychological impact. You might be struggling with feelings of guilt, anger, or loneliness, or finding it difficult to cope with everyday life. Together, we’ll explore these challenges and work on strategies to help you navigate them. My goal is to support you in finding ways to care for yourself, manage your emotions, and begin to heal.  While grief can change us, it’s also possible to find a path forward that includes hope, peace, and even joy. As we work together, I’ll support you in discovering ways to reconnect with your life, relationships, and sense of self, even as you carry your loss with you. Healing from grief is not about forgetting but about learning to live with loss in a way that allows you to embrace life once again.

Grieving can feel like an isolating and lonely experience, but you don’t have to go through it alone. If you’re ready to seek support and begin your journey toward healing, I’m here to help. Together, we can work through your grief, honouring your loss while finding a way to move forward with compassion and hope.

Anxiety can feel overwhelming and all-encompassing, affecting every aspect of your life, from your relationships to your daily activities. However, it doesn’t have to define you. In our work together, I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can explore your feelings, understand your anxiety, and develop the tools to navigate through it.  Anxiety can manifest in many forms - constant worry, racing thoughts, physical symptoms, or a sense of impending doom. In our sessions, you’ll find a supportive environment where you can share your experiences openly, without fear of judgment. My approach is centred on creating a trusting, empathetic relationship where you feel heard, understood, and respected.  Every person’s experience with anxiety is unique, and so is the journey toward healing. I believe that you are the expert on your own life, and our work together will be tailored to your specific needs and goals. We’ll explore the roots of your anxiety, whether they lie in past experiences, current stressors, or fears about the future, always at a pace that feels right for you.  Humanistic counselling emphasizes self-awareness, personal growth, and the belief that every individual has the capacity for positive change. Together, we’ll work to identify the underlying thoughts, emotions, and patterns that contribute to your anxiety. Through this process, you’ll develop a deeper understanding of yourself and learn how to harness your inner strengths to manage and reduce anxiety.  While anxiety can feel like an insurmountable obstacle, our work will focus on empowering you to regain control and find peace. We’ll explore strategies and techniques that resonate with you—whether that involves mindfulness practices, cognitive restructuring, or simply learning to listen to and trust your inner voice. The goal is to help you build resilience, reduce the impact of anxiety on your life, and foster a sense of empowerment and well-being.  Seeking help for anxiety is a courageous and important step. If you’re ready to start your journey toward relief and healing, I’m here to support you every step of the way. Together, we can work toward a life where anxiety no longer holds you back, allowing you to live more fully and freely. 

At the core of my approach to counselling is a deep belief in the human capacity for growth, resilience, and self-discovery. If you're struggling with depression, it can feel like an overwhelming weight, casting a shadow over every aspect of your life. But it’s important to remember that you are not alone, and healing is possible.  Depression can manifest in many ways—feelings of hopelessness, loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed, or a sense of disconnection from the world around you. In our sessions, I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can express your feelings openly. I believe that you are the expert on your own life, and my role is to walk alongside you as we explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences.  Humanistic counselling is centred on the belief that everyone has an innate capacity for self-awareness and personal growth. Together, we will work to uncover the underlying factors contributing to your depression, while also identifying your strengths and resources. My approach is collaborative—we’ll focus on what matters most to you, and work at your pace to develop insights and strategies that align with your values and goals.  No two experiences of depression are exactly alike. My approach is tailored to your unique needs, recognizing the individuality of your journey. Whether we explore past experiences, current challenges, or future aspirations, the focus will always be on you as a whole person, not just on your symptoms.  While depression can make the future seem bleak, our work together will aim to rekindle a sense of hope. Through our sessions, I will support you in rediscovering your inner strengths, finding meaning, and nurturing a more compassionate relationship with yourself. This process takes time, but every step forward is a move toward greater well-being and fulfilment.  Reaching out for help is a brave and important step. If you're ready to start your journey toward healing, I’m here to support you. Together, we can work to create a more hopeful, connected, and empowered life.  

Experiencing trauma can profoundly impact your sense of self, relationships, and your overall well-being. It can leave you feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, or even stuck in the past. But healing is possible, and you don’t have to go through it alone. In our work together, I offer a compassionate, safe space where you can begin to process your trauma and move toward a place of healing and empowerment. Healing from trauma requires a foundation of safety and trust. My first priority is to create a therapeutic environment where you feel secure, respected, and understood. Trauma can evoke deep feelings of vulnerability, and I am here to listen with empathy and without judgment. Together, we will move at a pace that feels right for you, ensuring that you feel in control of your healing journey. Every person’s experience of trauma is unique, and so is the path to recovery. Whether your trauma stems from a single event or a series of experiences, it’s important to honour your individual story. I believe in the importance of working collaboratively, tailoring our sessions to address your specific needs, feelings, and goals. You are the expert of your own experience, and our work together will respect and reflect that. Trauma can often lead to feelings of powerlessness, shame, or self-blame. In our sessions, we’ll work to shift these patterns by fostering a greater sense of self-compassion, empowerment, and inner strength. Through a process of exploration and reflection, we’ll seek to understand how trauma has impacted your life and begin to reconnect with the parts of yourself that feel lost or fragmented. My goal is to help you reclaim your sense of self and autonomy. Healing from trauma is not just about addressing symptoms; it’s about restoring wholeness. Our work may involve exploring the emotional, psychological, and sometimes physical effects of trauma. We’ll work together to identify coping strategies that feel supportive and empowering, whether through mindfulness practices, grounding techniques, or other therapeutic approaches. The focus is always on what feels most beneficial and affirming to you.

While the effects of trauma can be long-lasting, it is possible to move toward a future where the past no longer dictates your present. Our sessions will aim to help you process and integrate your experiences in a way that allows you to move forward with greater resilience, hope, and peace. Healing takes time, but each step you take is a step toward reclaiming your life and your future. Taking the step to seek help for trauma is an act of courage and self-care. If you’re ready to begin this journey, I am here to support you every step of the way. Together, we can work toward healing, growth, and a renewed sense of self and purpose.

 Living with ADHD can be both challenging and empowering. It can affect your focus, relationships, and daily life, often leaving you feeling overwhelmed or misunderstood. But it’s also a part of what makes you unique, with strengths and perspectives that can be harnessed to lead a fulfilling life. As someone who has ADHD, I understand these challenges on a personal level, and I’m here to offer both professional guidance and empathetic support on your journey.  Having ADHD myself, I know first-hand the frustrations and obstacles that can come with it, as well as the strengths and creativity it can bring. My experience allows me to approach our work together with a deep, personal understanding of what it’s like to navigate life with ADHD. Combined with my professional training and experience, this enables me to offer practical strategies, insights, and compassionate support tailored to your unique needs.  ADHD can often lead to feelings of frustration, self-doubt, or being misunderstood by others. In our sessions, you’ll find a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can explore your experiences openly. Whether you’re struggling with focus, organization, impulsivity, or managing emotions, I’m here to listen and help you find strategies that work for you. Together, we’ll work on understanding how ADHD affects your life and finding ways to harness its potential.  ADHD affects everyone differently, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to managing it. Drawing on both my personal experience and professional expertise, I’ll work with you to develop tools and strategies that fit your lifestyle and goals. This might include techniques for improving focus and organization, managing impulsivity, or coping with the emotional ups and downs that can accompany ADHD. The goal is to empower you to take control of your ADHD, rather than letting it control you.  While ADHD presents challenges, it also comes with unique strengths—creativity, problem-solving abilities, and a different way of seeing the world. In our work together, we’ll focus not only on managing the difficulties of ADHD but also on recognizing and building on your strengths. By embracing these qualities, you can turn what might seem like obstacles into opportunities for growth and success.  ADHD can impact your relationships, whether it’s with family, friends, or colleagues. You might struggle with communication, maintaining connections, or feeling understood. Together, we’ll explore how ADHD influences your interactions and work on strategies to improve communication, set boundaries, and build stronger, more supportive relationships.  Living with ADHD can be challenging, but it can also be an incredible journey of self-discovery and growth. If you’re ready to take control of your ADHD and embrace your unique strengths, I’m here to support you. With my personal experience and professional expertise, together, we can work toward a more organized, focused, and fulfilling life. 

As a Clinical Supervisor, I offer guidance and support to qualified counsellors and those in training, both in one-to-one and group settings.  Clinical supervision is a vital process in the field of counselling and psychotherapy, providing practitioners with a structured opportunity to reflect on their work, enhance their skills, and ensure the highest standards of client care.  I work directly with practitioners and for organisations  providing clinical supervision to front line staff. 

Clinical supervision involves regular, focused sessions where practitioners review and discuss their clinical work, including client cases, therapeutic approaches, and professional challenges. This process is designed to support personal and professional development, ensuring that counsellors and therapists are practicing ethically, effectively, and with ongoing competence.

For both seasoned professionals and those in training, supervision offers a space to explore complex cases, address any difficulties encountered in practice, and receive constructive feedback. It also provides an opportunity to enhance self-awareness, develop new skills, and integrate theoretical knowledge with practical experience.

Clinical supervision plays a crucial role in maintaining and enhancing the quality of therapeutic practice. It provides several key benefits:

• Reflective Practice: Supervision offers a space to reflect deeply on therapeutic work, helping practitioners to gain new insights, address any challenges, and continuously improve their practice.
• Skill Development: Through supervision, counsellors, therapists and front line staff can enhance their clinical skills, receive guidance on specific techniques, and explore different theoretical approaches.
• Ethical and Professional Standards: Regular supervision ensures that practitioners adhere to ethical guidelines and maintain professional standards, safeguarding both clients and practitioners.
• Emotional Support: Working as a counsellor or as a front line staff member, can be emotionally demanding. Supervision provides a supportive environment where practitioners can process their own emotional responses and prevent burnout.

As an Integrative Humanistic practitioner with a  background in psychodynamic theory, including teaching Integrative CPCAB Diploma courses, I bring a rich, multifaceted perspective to supervision. My approach integrates various therapeutic modalities to provide comprehensive support tailored to each practitioner’s needs. Whether working with individuals or groups, my goal is to foster an environment of growth, learning, and mutual respect.

If you’re a counsellor, therapist or front line staff member, seeking supervision that supports both your professional development and personal well-being, or if you’re in training and looking for guidance as you embark on your journey, I invite you to reach out. Together, we can work towards excellence in practice and ensure that you’re equipped to provide the best possible support to your clients.  I offer reduced rates for counsellors in training. 

 Welcome! As a Reiki practitioner, I am dedicated to helping you achieve a deeper sense of well-being and balance through the gentle, restorative practice of Reiki. Reiki is a holistic healing technique that works with the body’s energy system to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and support overall health.

Reiki is a Japanese healing practice that involves the gentle placement of hands on or near the body to channel universal life energy. This energy helps to restore harmony and balance to your physical, emotional, and spiritual self. The practice is non-invasive and aims to enhance your body's natural ability to heal and maintain wellness.

• Relaxation and Stress Reduction: Reiki promotes deep relaxation, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. This calming effect can support your overall mental and emotional health.
• Enhanced Energy Flow: By balancing the body's energy system, Reiki can help alleviate physical discomfort, boost your energy levels, and improve your sense of vitality.
• Emotional Healing: Reiki supports emotional well-being by helping to clear blockages and release negative emotions, allowing you to experience greater inner peace and emotional resilience.
• Holistic Support: Reiki complements other therapeutic practices and can be used alongside conventional medical treatments to support your overall health and well-being.

With a background in humanistic counselling and a deep understanding of energy healing, I integrate Reiki into my practice to offer a holistic approach to wellness. My sessions are designed to create a serene and supportive environment where you can relax and experience the full benefits of Reiki. Whether you're seeking relief from stress, emotional support, or simply looking to enhance your overall sense of balance, I am here to guide you through this healing process.

If you’re interested in exploring how Reiki can support your well-being and help you achieve a greater sense of balance and harmony, I invite you to get in touch. Together, we can embark on a journey towards enhanced health and a deeper connection with your inner self.