Emma Parkinson

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she/her
MBACP
Manchester, Greater Manchester, M23

About me

Life can sometimes leave us feeling disconnected from ourselves.

Perhaps you've spent years putting others first, questioning your own needs, masking parts of who you are, or carrying experiences that have left you feeling stuck, overwhelmed or misunderstood. You may be navigating anxiety, people-pleasing patterns, trauma, relationship difficulties, grief, burnout, or making sense of a late ADHD or autism diagnosis.

I believe that every person has inherent worth and an innate capacity for growth when they are met with compassion, understanding and genuine human connection.

As a person-centred and integrative counsellor, I offer a warm, non-judgemental space where you can explore your experiences at your own pace. My role is not to direct or tell you who you should be. Instead, I work alongside you with curiosity, respect and compassion, supporting you to deepen your understanding of yourself and move towards the life you want to live.

I have over eight years' experience working within mental health services and have undertaken additional training in trauma-informed practice, behavioural activation, menopause and mental health, compassion-focused therapy and expressive therapies.

Every person experiences the world differently and I believe therapy should reflect that. Rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach, I adapt our work to your individual needs, strengths and experiences.

Creative Counselling

Alongside traditional talking therapy, I have a growing passion for creative and expressive ways of working.

Sometimes our thoughts, emotions and experiences cannot easily be expressed through words alone. Creative approaches can offer alternative ways of exploring feelings, gaining insight and developing self-compassion.

My studies in expressive therapies have strengthened my belief that meaningful change can emerge through creativity, reflection and self-expression. This may include writing, metaphor, imagery, creative reflection or other expressive approaches where appropriate.

No artistic experience is needed. These are simply additional ways of supporting exploration and understanding.

Neurodiversity-Affirming Practice

I have particular experience supporting adults who are exploring or adjusting to ADHD and autism, including those receiving a diagnosis later in life.

Many people arrive in therapy feeling that they have spent years trying to fit themselves into expectations that do not truly reflect who they are. Therapy can offer an opportunity to better understand your needs, strengths, challenges and identity within a safe and accepting space.

My approach is neurodiversity affirming, compassionate and focused on helping you build a relationship with yourself that feels more authentic and sustainable.

Training, qualifications & experience

•Level 5 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling

•Level 3 Behavioural Activation

•Trauma-Informed Practice

•Menopause and Mental Health

•Understanding Bipolar Disorder and Psychosis

•Introduction to Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT)

•Compassion Focused Therapy (MSc module)

•Expressive Therapies (MSc module)

•Currently completing an MSc in Advanced Counselling and Psychotherapy with Supervision

•Trained and practising Clinical Supervisor

•Registered Member of the BACP (MBACP)

I have over 9 years' experience working in mental health and wellbeing services, supporting individuals experiencing anxiety, trauma, low self-worth, relationship difficulties, grief and loss, neurodivergence, and life transitions.

I have a particular interest in supporting adults who are exploring or adjusting to ADHD and autism, including those receiving a diagnosis later in life.

Alongside my counselling practice, I offer clinical supervision grounded in reflection, collaboration, compassion and ethical practice.

I also bring both professional and personal understanding of fertility difficulties, infertility and fertility treatment journeys.

Member organisations

BACP
British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP)

BACP is one of the UK’s leading professional bodies for counselling and psychotherapy with around 60,000 members. The Association has several different categories of membership, including Student Member, Individual Member, Registered Member MBACP, Registered Accredited Member MBACP (Accred) and Senior Registered Accredited Member MBACP (Snr Acccred). Registered and accredited members are listed on the BACP Register, which shows that they have demonstrated BACP’s recommended standards for training, proficiency and ethical practice. The BACP Register was the first register of psychological therapists to be accredited by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA). Accredited and senior accredited membership are voluntary categories for members who choose to undertake a rigorous application and assessment process to demonstrate additional standards around practice, training and supervision. Individual members will have completed an appropriate counselling or psychotherapy course and started to practise, but they won’t appear on the BACP Register until they've demonstrated that they meet the standards for registration. Student members are still in the process of completing their training. All members are bound by the BACP Ethical Framework and a Professional Conduct Procedure.

Accredited register membership

British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy
Accredited Register Scheme

The Accredited Register Scheme was set up in 2013 by the Department of Health (DoH) as a way to recognise organisations that hold voluntary registers which meet certain standards. These standards are set by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA).

This therapist has indicated that they belong to an Accredited Register.

British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy

Areas of counselling I deal with

Therapies offered

Photos & videos

Fees

£60.00 per session

Concessions offered for

  • Low income
  • Keyworkers
  • Students
  • Trainee counsellors

Additional information

concessions available to low income, students and Key workers.

When I work

Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun
Early morning
Morning
Early afternoon
Late afternoon
Evening

Manchester, Greater Manchester, M23

Type of session

Online
Phone

Types of client

Adults (25-64)
Older Adults (65+)
Organisations
Employee Assistance Programme

Key details

DBS check

In England and Wales, the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS, formerly known as CRB) carry out criminal records checks for individuals working with vulnerable groups, such as children. To find out more, visit gov.uk , or contact this professional directly

Online platforms

Whatsapp
Zoom
Microsoft Teams

Supervision

Online
Phone

Reflective, compassionate supervision for counsellors and helping professionals, supporting ethical practice, growth and wellbeing.

View supervision profile