The Mind Sanctuary

18/08/2025

🌱 Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just needing someone to talk to? 🌱

Counselling offers you a safe, supportive space to explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Whether you’re navigating stress, relationships, anxiety, or simply wanting to understand yourself better—I’m here to walk alongside you.

✨ You don’t have to go through it alone.
✨ Small steps can create big changes.

📩 Message me today to book your first session and start your journey toward clarity and calm or you can contact me at the mindsanctuary@hotmail.com or by phone on 07766 489648. See less

18/08/2025

Want to find out more about counselling and the services I offer, take a look at website for more information.

You can also contact me on 07766 489648 or email at themindsanctuary@hotmail.com

The Mind Sanctuary with Sam Gouldthorp offers supportive counselling services for adults. Located in West Street, Fareham, Sam brings a holistic approach to counselling to help people who are experiencing a variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety and trauma. Contact The Mind Sa...

19/02/2025

Nourishing your brain with the right foods can significantly impact your mental well-being, reducing anxiety and depression as well as improving memory and cognitive function.

For instance, avocados are packed with healthy fats, which support brain health and stabilize mood swings. Blueberries are little powerhouses of antioxidants that enhance cognitive function and protect against stress. For a serotonin boost, which can help lift your mood, include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, chia seeds, and walnuts in your diet.

Feeling a bit down? Try some dark chocolate—it not only tastes great but also boosts endorphin levels, putting you in a better mood.

For a steady supply of energy and focus, whole grains like oatmeal and brown rice are your best friends. Nuts and seeds, particularly almonds and pumpkin seeds, are loaded with vitamins and minerals that enhance brain function and elevate your mood.

So, munching on these brain-boosting goodies isn't just tasty; it's a delicious way to keep your mind sharp and your spirits high! 🧠🍫🥗

Feel free to add some of these to your next grocery list, and let your brain and mood thank you later! 🌟

13/01/2025

I love this post, there is so much expectation placed upon January ....New Year New Me!!

But that expectation can be overwhelming, it can also create a feeling of not being good enough when you compared to, what feels life, everyone on your timeline who appears to have got it together.

Be kind to yourself and do January in whatever way you want to.

Sharing this from our friends to remind you to be kind to yourself this January 🫂✨️

14/11/2024

A really good book for anyone experiencing intrusive thoughts.

This book has helped me with clients, it helps to take the fear and judgement out of such thoughts....all I will say is 🥕🥕🥕

themindsanctuary

10/11/2024

What a wonderful morning in the community I serve and work in. Gateway Church Fareham opened their doors to the community with refreshments & bacon rolls. I was able to watch the parade, pay my respects before client work.

We will remember them.

27/10/2024

Creating a safe space in therapy is one of the most important elements in therapy, but what does it mean?

A "safe space" is a supportive environment where clients feel secure, respected, and understood, encouraging them to share their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment or retaliation.

As a therapist I create here’s how I create such a space:

🌟Build Trust and Rapport: Trust forms the foundation of any therapeutic relationship. A therapist can build trust by showing genuine interest, validating the client’s experiences, and ensuring consistent confidentiality. It’s vital that clients feel their concerns are respected and that they are not being judged.

🌟Cultivate Empathy and Non-Judgment: Empathy allows therapists to understand clients from their perspective, while non-judgment fosters a neutral environment. By actively listening, reflecting emotions, and responding with compassion, therapists demonstrate acceptance of clients’ unique backgrounds, beliefs, and choices.

🌟Set and Respect Boundaries: Boundaries give structure to therapy and help clients feel safe and in control. By setting clear expectations for confidentiality, session structure, and boundaries within the therapeutic relationship, clients know what to expect, which reduces anxiety and fosters trust.

🌟Foster Open Communication: Therapists should encourage clients to share feedback, express discomfort, and discuss what helps or hinders their healing process. An open dialogue helps clients feel valued and more comfortable exploring their inner worlds.

🌟Create a Comfortable Physical Environment: A soothing, private, and well-organized therapy space can reduce stress. Factors like lighting, seating arrangement, and minimizing distractions help create a welcoming environment that encourages relaxation.

Creating a safe space requires intention, active listening, and a commitment to the client’s well-being. When clients feel safe, they’re better able to explore their vulnerabilities, face challenging emotions, and engage fully in the healing journey.

20/09/2024

Sometimes it's the smallest of steps that have the biggest impact.

Keep moving forward. Small steps every day

Image: https://www.instagram.com/inspirivity

10/09/2024

This World Su***de Prevention Day, remember you don’t have to go through tough times alone. These helplines are always ready to listen, whether you need support or want to help someone else. Please save and share ❤️

07/09/2024

Saying no doesn't always come easy, if you find saying no difficult start with saying no to something small.

What are you going to say no to today?

Self Care September - Day 7: Give yourself permission to say 'no'

https://actionforhappiness.org/self-care-september

06/09/2024

I have some exciting news to share...... this week I moved into my new therapy room.

I am still in the same location but I now have my own room, and no longer share meaning I can offer more flexibility in the sessions I offer.

The past 6 months have been a whirlwind and I feel very grateful and blessed to be able to do what I do, thank you everyone who has helped me along the way.

18/06/2024