Gemma Williams

Hello, a warm welcome to my profile. My name is Gemma and I run Heard Therapies, a Psychotherapy and Equine Facilitated Interactions service based in Staffordshire. I work with young people aged 11 and over and adults. Sessions can be online if you are not within reach of my practice. 

Are you a parent/carer who is worried about your child? Are they struggling with low mood, anxiety, self-harm, feeling overwhelmed, the impact of trauma, changes in behaviour, friendship/relationship issues or generally not feeling themselves? The teenage years can be such a difficult time to navigate, for parents as well as our young people! I can provide a safe, warm, no-pressure environment for them to be able to process what they need too and come up with some coping strategies to help them. I have many years of experience of working with teenagers in various settings, including high schools and alternative provision settings. I work with young people who have an EHCP (or are in the process of applying for an EHCP), and those who have ADHD and/or ASD, whether formally diagnosed or not. Every young person is unique and is treated as such. I specialise in working with young people who may have become fatigued and disillusioned by support offered from other organisations, and may therefore be reluctant to try Counselling again. 

I am also an Equine Facilitated Interactions Practitioner, which allows me to offer clients the opportunity to work therapeutically with horses. For young people, Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy sessions can be particularly beneficial as they provide the opportunity to be in an outdoor, natural environment, which has positive effects on mental wellbeing for all ages. Other benefits of EFP sessions for young people include building collaboration and communication skills, developing resilience and problem solving skills, fostering empathy, aiding impulse control, increased awareness of emotions and their impact, developing self-confidence and self-esteem. It is truly amazing what horses can do for young people’s mental health and wellbeing. 

As adults, we can continue to be affected by many of the above issues that young people face, as well as dealing with the day to day stresses, pressures and responsibilities of life. We also have to face significant life events, bereavements, family issues, relationship issues, traumatic incidents, abuse, to name but a few. Counselling sessions provide a safe, confidential space where you will be heard. We will work together to aid your understanding of yourself and the impact that life and your experiences have had on your wellbeing. I offer a confidential, safe, compassionate, empathic, non-judgemental space for you to explore what you need. Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy sessions are suitable for clients of all ages and can be combined with Counselling sessions to provide a bespoke therapy experience. 

Beginning therapy can feel daunting, I offer a free telephone call so we can discuss your needs, and you can decide if I am the right Counsellor for you. I will also be able to answer any questions about my services, and how I can help you, or your young person. 

Counselling sessions are £40 for 50 minutes, (online or face to face).

Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy sessions are £60 for up to an hour.

Discounted rates are offered for block bookings of six sessions or more, please get in touch to discuss. 

I have worked in various educational settings for many years, as a teacher and now as a Counsellor. I also currently work for a national mental health charity alongside my own practice. I have a DBS and have also completed the level 2 safeguarding children and young people qualification. 

I have experienced my own difficulties and challenges in life, and understand how daunting it can feel to reach out and ask for support. Please do get in touch if you would like more information about my services.