Carolyn Knaggs

In-person sessions in private therapy room and walk&talk sessions outside available now.

*PLEASE NOTE I WORK WITH OVER 18'S ONLY*

The aim of all sessions (however they are conducted) is to work towards an understanding of the challenges you face and the changes you wish to make. During sessions, you will be the focus of our attentions and I will value you without judgement, as a unique person, an equal. Having been in counselling myself, I have an understanding of the process. It can be a daunting prospect, and I will support you in that journey. I have listed many specialities and whilst I do have experience of working with them, I believe there is more to you than a "diagnosis" or an "issue" so the focus is on you the whole person, and whatever you choose to bring.

I have worked in various settings with individuals experiencing enduring diagnosed mental health conditions, depression, sexual, emotional and physical abuse, trauma, domestic violence and have done a large amount of work with students and the various issues they bring (study related and otherwise.) I am also qualified in CBT and have used this technique to much success, especially with social anxiety and generalised anxiety disorder.

*I also offer Walk & Talk Outdoor Therapy* Simply put, Walk & Talk therapy is counselling whilst walking (or sitting) outdoors. Some clients find it more comfortable walking side by side with a counsellor anyway, rather than sitting face to face in an enclosed room. It is conducted in the same way as counselling in a room, and the focus is still on exploring relationships and issues together, to hopefully discover a resolution or opportunity for change.

What is Walk and Talk Therapy

Routes may either start at the counselling room, or we may arrange to meet at another location. Sessions will last 1 hour from start of a route to the finish. On some routes there will be opportunities to sit, and you may choose that only part of the session consists of walking. I stick to a selection of routes in the same areas, as I have specifically risk-assessed them. If you have a particular location you would like to walk in, after a prior discussion, I will endeavour to accommodate your wishes. There are opportunities for less restricted movements and chances to engage with mindfulness, however this will be your choice, and not a requirement. The walking aspect will also serve as physical exercise, which is proven to benefit both mental and physical health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need any special equipment? No. It is however, very important that you wear suitable clothing for walking outside in different weather conditions, e.g. suitable footwear, coat, hat, sunscreen, scarf etc. Also consider bringing some water, or a flask if you prefer.

Do I need to be fit? The pace for the walks is set by you. I will be mindful of when we need to return to the start. Different routes may have challenges (e.g. styles or hills) and so it is important to discuss any concerns with me prior to walking, we will set aside time to do that prior to sessions. If you have any concerns, it is recommended that you seek the advice of a medical professional before starting any new exercise activity.

What if the weather is bad? If the weather is likely to make a walk unsafe or sufficiently uncomfortable, the session can either be conducted online, or in the counselling room where we walk from, or with enough notice, rescheduled or cancelled. It is important we have shared our contact details beforehand so this contact can be made if necessary.

What if I decide it isn't right for me? As with all therapy, if you feel that this type of therapy is not right for you, we can explore different options. One of the challenges of working outdoors is that we cannot completely control this environment. What happens if we accidentally bump into a friend, or we come across a lost dog/child for example? Whilst unexpected incidents can help us learn about our responses to challenges in our lives, we will discuss and agree beforehand what we will say or do, should anything unexpected happen.

Are Walk and Talk sessions more expensive? Not usually, if you are happy with walking from the counselling room, or one of the routes I choose, then they are the same price as all my others. £40 per 1 hour session, payable either at the beginning or end of the session. Rates can be discussed for routes further away from central Scarborough.

If therapy outdoors is not for you I also offer face-to-face sessions in my private therapy room.

Walk & Talk Outdoor Therapy

Creative Therapy Techniques using objects and stones

A limited number of evening sessions are now available.

Daytime sessions are £40 per hour. 

Evening sessions are £50 per hour. 

All sessions are 1 hour long.

One day, or Day one?

I appreciate that the first step can be the hardest one to take, and looking at the whole staircase might be overwhelming? Maybe just take the first step, see how that feels.

I am happy for you to contact me via email, (carolynvortex@hotmail.co.uk) message me through this site or through the Facebook page, Scarborough Counselling UK.

I look forward to hearing from you, Carolyn.