Anne Hagues

Welcome

Hi! My name is Anne, and thank you for taking the time to find out a little bit more about me. I am a qualified, BACP‑registered counsellor with master’s level training in integrative counselling, and I began my journey in counselling and psychology at the University of Hertfordshire in 1993.

If you are reading this, you have already taken a courageous first step in exploring whether therapy could help you with the issue, problem, or worry that you are facing. I understand that life can feel overwhelming, heavy or uncertain, and sometimes the past quietly shapes how we feel in ways we may not realise. In those moments, reaching out can feel difficult yet deeply needed. If you are reading this, something in you is seeking understanding, connection or support, and that matters.

We all experience times when life feels challenging. While we often rely on family and friends, some issues are too complex or sensitive to share with those close to us. Therapy offers a safe, confidential space to explore your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgement. I place great importance on providing a supportive environment where your story can be heard, held and understood. Together, we can begin to make sense of your struggles and unlock your potential.

Choosing a counsellor can feel daunting, especially when navigating trauma, uncertainty or emotional pain. You may feel lost, alone or unsure how to feel better. Nobody should have to carry everything on their own, and you do not have to navigate this alone.

Through therapy, I walk alongside you to increase self‑awareness and understanding of whatever is on your mind. Sometimes being heard in a space free from pressure and judgement can be the first step toward positive change. By working together, we can uncover what is going on for you and begin to find ways to manage and move toward a more fulfilling life.

I want you to feel that our sessions are a place where you can share anything without fear of judgement. Holding difficult thoughts or experiences alone can be exhausting and overwhelming. You are always in control of what you choose to share. Trust takes time, and my goal is to create a relationship where you feel safe to bring any part of yourself, even the parts that feel hard to show to the world.

I offer a confidential space where your story can be spoken, held and cared for. You can bring your trauma, your questions, your confusion, your hopes; nothing is too small, too big, too delicate or too heavy. You will be met with compassion and care, and together we will gently explore the places that feel hard to reach.

My Approach

My approach is integrative and trauma‑informed. I draw from psychodynamic, person‑centred, cognitive‑behavioural and creative modalities, including the use of art if you would like, allowing us to tailor therapy to your unique needs. Being an integrative therapist means adapting our work to suit you as an individual, and we will discuss how you prefer to work so that therapy feels right for you. 

I also incorporate somatic awareness, recognising that the body often holds experiences that words alone cannot reach. Our bodies can hold memories that our minds find difficult to access, sometimes contributing to chronic health issues or physical sensations that feel unexplained. Exploring the mind‑body connection can offer insight into what your body may be trying to communicate.

With a BSc (Hons) Psychology degree and a longstanding interest in how the brain and nervous system shape our emotional world, I can integrate psychological theories and tools, such as positive psychology if it is helpful. Many clients find it reassuring to understand not only what they are feeling, but why. Psychoeducation can offer clarity, reduce shame and open new pathways for change.

My background and experiences include a BSc in psychology, a master’s in integrative counselling, postgraduate study and working as a university lecturer. I engage in ongoing research, including undertaking a PhD looking at therapy for medically unexplained physical symptoms. 

Working Together

I offer a reflective, compassionate and confidential space for you to explore your inner world at your own pace. While the focus is on positive change, it is often important to consider past events and their impact on the present and future.

I am passionate about making a difference in the lives of those I work with, helping you navigate issues from the past, present or future; memories or events that have shaped your life; situations affecting you now; or challenges ahead that feel impossible to face.

I offer a free 30-minute initial session which helps us understand whether we can work together and clarify what has brought you to counselling. It also gives you the chance to decide whether you feel comfortable working with me, which is essential.

If you decide you would like to work with me, our first few sessions will focus on getting to know each other, understanding what is going on for you and identifying what we may work on. I aim to help you feel at ease and build a trusting bond between us before we begin exploring what may be troubling you.

Sessions last 50 minutes and are normally once a week. You can see me short‑term or long‑term, depending on your needs.

Areas I Work With

I support adult clients facing a wide range of challenges, including, but not limited to:

• Anxiety and depression
• Trauma and PTSD
• Abuse
• Loss and bereavement
• Chronic illness and medically unexplained symptoms
• Eating issues
• Low self-esteem

Whether you are dealing with recent difficulties or long-standing issues, I offer a space to reflect, heal, and grow. 

Medically unexplained physical symptoms

Sessions

I offer a free, no-obligation initial 30-minute session, either in person at Hertford or by telephone or Zoom, as a chance for us to meet, talk about what has brought you here, and see if I am the right person to support you. 

If you then decide to pursue counselling with me, sessions last for 50 minutes and are normally once a week. You will be able to see me for a length of time that suits you, either short-term or long-term.

Fees

£65.00 per session.

Availability

At present, I have availability in person at Hertford on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, please feel free to email me at annehagues1@gmail.com, or phone or text me on 07383 842900 to find out more information.

Location

My practice is located in Bluecoats Avenue, Hertford, with three car parks within a four‑minute walk. The therapy room is on the second floor of a Georgian building with no lift, so you would need to be able to walk up stairs.

If you are ready to take the next step, I would love to hear from you. I understand how daunting therapy can feel, which is why I offer a free 30‑minute consultation to explore where you are and whether I may be the right person to walk alongside you. There is no obligation, and you are welcome to ask any questions to help you feel more at ease.

The initial session will give us an insight as to whether we could work together and help us clarify your expectations and issues that brought you to counselling. You can decide if you feel able to work with me, because it is important to have a counsellor you are happy with. 

Thank you for considering me as your therapist. I look forward to the opportunity to support you. If you would like to contact me, please email, text or phone using the contact details on this page.