Amie Charnley

I work with adults, young people and children from my practice situated in Paignton. 

Making the decision to see a counsellor can feel really daunting and it's so important to find someone that feels right for you and you feel safe with. It may be that you are certain that you are ready to start therapy or you may feel unsure and just want to get in touch to find out some more about the process. I welcome enquiries from everyone. Having an initial call via telephone or online allows you to ask any questions you may have without any pressure to proceed.

I offer one to one therapy face to face or online. Our work may be shorter term (around 6 sessions) or longer term depending on what you need.  (Please note, I do not work online with people under 16 years old).

How does it work in the beginning?

When you first make contact with me, we will make a time together to speak on the phone or online for about 15/20 minutes just to see if I am the right person for you.  If you choose to move forward, we would then make an appointment for our first session.

How can Counselling help?

I really believe in the importance of providing a space for you to arrive just as you are and to move at your own speed. It's human nature for life to feel up and down and some sessions will look different than others depending on how you are and what you need each time. Working collaboratively allows us to find the best way forward for you.

Life can be challenging sometimes and we can get stuck. It may be there is a specific situation that has caused you to feel overwhelmed or you may be struggling generally without a clear path forward. My approach is to support you to find your own answers and your own way through. We are the experts on ourselves, but sometimes we just need someone else we trust to help us discover what we need, where to go next, or to see a way through. I really believe that therapy can offer this.

My approach

I am an integrative counsellor; I offer a variety of ways of working depending on you.  You may be more comfortable with traditional talking therapy or you may find it useful to work creatively to find your solutions such as using a sand tray, drawing or painting, or using music. Whatever you decide, we will move at a pace that feels right for you. 

Some people arrive at counselling because they are grieving, have relationship difficulties or want to make a change and don't know how. An integrative way of working simply means that by getting to know you, we can figure out different ways of working that will be the most beneficial for you. We are all individuals and all have a unique set of needs.

Children & Young People

Therapy with children and young people can look different to therapy with adults. Some children and young people can find sitting across from a counsellor intimidating and may find it easier to talk sitting side by side whilst playing a game of cards, playing with toys or doing some drawing, depending on their age.

Online Therapy

Online therapy has become increasingly popular over the last few years and studies are showing that it can be just as effective as face to face counselling, depending on the individual and what they need. Training in this way of working allowed me to appreciate the differences between face to face and online therapy, as well as the advantages and disadvantages.

Working online can be great for flexibility, particularly for those with caring responsibilities or those may have to travel for their work. Combining face to face and online work can also be useful in these situations. I am happy to answer any queries you may have around this way of working, particularly if it is new to you.

I work both face to face and online.

For those choosing to work face to face, I offer a safe and private space in Preston, Paignton. Parking outside is free and bus stops and the train station are only a short walk away.