Counselling tailored to you
You may be thinking about counselling because something doesn't feel quite right. Perhaps you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed or stuck, finding relationships difficult, or living with the effects of something painful from your past. You may have one particular concern in mind, or simply know that you would like some space to understand what is happening for you.
I offer individual counselling and psychotherapy for adults. I have a particular interest in trauma-informed work and in supporting women, while also welcoming enquiries from men and from adults with a broad range of concerns.
How I work
If you feel I might be the right therapist for you, you’re welcome to get in touch. The first step is a free 20-minute telephone or video consultation, with no obligation to continue. My work is rooted in person-centred counselling. For me, that means respecting that you know your own life better than anyone else. I won't tell you what you should do or decide what is right for you. Instead, I'll listen carefully and we can explore what you're experiencing together.
I also work pluralistically. That may sound quite formal, but it simply means that I don't believe therapy is one-size-fits-all. We can talk about what you find helpful and adapt the way we work as we go. This might include conversation and reflection, exploring feelings or patterns that keep coming up, or trying more practical or creative ways of working.
As a trauma-informed practitioner, I am mindful that past experiences may shape how things feel in the present. You won't be expected to share anything before you're ready, and we can work at a pace that feels manageable for you.
Face-to-face counselling in Holmes Chapel
For those who prefer to meet face to face, I offer sessions from my private therapy room in Holmes Chapel, Cheshire East.
I understand that coming somewhere new for counselling can feel a little uncertain. I've included these photographs so you can see what the room and its entrance look like before your first visit. I hope that knowing what to expect helps the space feel a little more familiar.
The room is calm, comfortable and welcoming, with privacy to talk openly and at your own pace. It is completely separate from my family home, which helps to protect your privacy and confidentiality while you are here.
Online counselling
I also offer online sessions through Google Meet for adults across the UK. This can be a helpful option if you live further away or would prefer to meet from your own space.
Short-term or open-ended counselling
You may want to focus on a particular concern over a shorter period, or you may need more time to explore experiences or patterns in greater depth. I offer both short-term and open-ended counselling. We can talk about what may suit you and review this together as the work develops; you do not need to decide everything in advance.
Optional integrated hypnotherapy
I am also trained in hypnotherapy. If I feel that a gentle hypnotherapy technique could be useful as part of our work, I will talk it through with you first. It will only ever be included when it feels appropriate and you are comfortable with it; it is not an automatic part of counselling.
Fees and payment
Counselling sessions last one hour and cost £60. Payment is made by bank transfer at least 24 hours before each session to secure the appointment.
I will explain the practical arrangements and provide the counselling agreement before your first full session, so you will have an opportunity to ask about anything that is unclear.
The first step
Before you book a full counselling session, I offer a free 20-minute consultation, normally by video or by telephone if you prefer. This gives us a chance to meet, talk briefly about what has brought you to counselling, discuss practical matters such as availability and fees, and consider whether working together feels right for both of us.
It is not a therapy session, so you will not need to tell me your whole story, and there is no obligation to continue.
