Clare Hitchcock

Hello and welcome!

I'm Clare, a highly-skilled, experienced child and adolescent counsellor. I hold Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling Children at school, from the University of East London in conjunction with Place2Be, a leading children's mental health charity. 

I have a lot of experience working in both primary and secondary schools across London and Hertfordshire. I value the therapeutic relationship foremost and am very good at working with clients who have previously been resistant to counselling and are particularly nervous. 

As well as offering my services to schools, I see clients in my private practice and on Zoom. 

My approach is gentle and child/client-led, I offer genuine empathy and warmth with a non-judgemental attitude. This creates an environment where it feels easier to explore the self, whether through play, talking or other creative means.  Everyone is unique and therefore my skill is in tailoring my approach to the individual.

Well, researched theories underpin my work, from attachment theory, object relations, and play therapy, as well as a great understanding of development theory.

I too have a good understanding of what the parent may be feeling and experiencing when presented with their child, whom they see suffering and feel unsure how to best help.

I have worked with a diverse range of clients, focusing on a range of issues, including suicide ideation and self-harm. I welcome individuals of any age, race, gender, sexual orientation and cultural background.

I keep up to date with Safeguarding, holding a current level 3 cert in safeguarding both children and adults.

I  am a registered member of the  British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP). I have an enhanced DBS check, and professional insurance and undertake regular supervision. More importantly, I love my job and have a genuine desire to help.

I have a special interest in Depression and currently also offer IPT for both  Adults and Adolescents.  IPT is a  very effective treatment for depression and is recommended by NICE guidelines. I currently work for the IAPT Herts valley wellbeing team (NHS),  I also offer my counselling, for the Peace Hospice bereavement service seeing Adult clients.

I welcome calls of interest, this initial call is free with no obligation. If you wish to go ahead, we schedule an initial assessment. Therapy usually takes place on the same day and time each week. Sessions are 50 minutes and can be time-limited or open-ended.

Feel free to contact me and I look forward to meeting you!     

Contact me for a no-obligation chat.

Initial Assessment £65 (50 minutes)

Psychotherapy @ Counseling session (50 minutes) £65