Karen Kennedy

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Counsellor/Therapist MBACP - BACP Registered

About me

I work in a person-centred way, which means my focus is entirely on you. Together, we’ll take the time to explore what’s going on for you right now — I’ll listen actively and support you as you navigate life’s challenges, changes, and uncertainties.

Maybe you’re here because life feels overwhelming or stressful. Perhaps anxiety has crept in and started to take hold. Or maybe you’ve been feeling low, unmotivated, or simply stuck — unsure of which way to turn next.

It could be that your confidence or self-esteem has taken a knock, and finding a way forward feels hard. If any of this sounds familiar, please know you don’t have to go through it alone — I’m here to help.

Life’s pressures — whether from relationships, family, work, or major changes — can leave us feeling lost. Counselling offers a chance to pause, take a breath, and talk things through in a safe, supportive space where you can truly be heard.

In our sessions, you lead the way. I have no fixed agenda or quick fixes. I won’t tell you what to do or offer ready-made advice. Instead, I’ll provide a calm, non-judgmental environment where we can explore your thoughts and feelings together. Through reflection and openness, you can begin to find clarity and rediscover your own strength.

Sometimes, it can feel like there’s just too much going on or you don’t even know where to start — and that’s okay. Nothing is off limits here. Whatever you bring to our sessions, we’ll work through it side by side, with compassion and understanding.

Whether you choose to work with me for a few sessions or over a longer period, you’ll always be at the centre of the process. My aim is to offer a consistently safe, confidential space where you can gain a clearer understanding of where you are — and begin to make the changes that lead to greater confidence, peace, and positivity.

Training, qualifications & experience

  • CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling
  • CPCAB Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies
  • CPCAB Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills
  • Master of Philosophy (MPhil)
  • B.A Hons in English and American Studies

8 years experience working with young people aged 16+  in further education. Providing academic and pastoral support for students with Autism/ADHD/Dyslexia/Social Anxiety

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

Other areas of counselling I deal with

I have particular experience of working with clients living with addiction -  in particular alcohol and substance abuse. I support clients navigating a sober life helping them safely explore the life experiences and events that have contributed to their relationship with drugs and alcohol. Feeling supported in a non judgemental way can help people find some understanding of their choices and behaviours and with that the strength to move forward with increased independence and positivity.

Therapies offered

Fees

£50.00 per session
Free initial telephone session

Additional information

£50.00 per 50-minute session.

Currently I am unable to offer discounted rates.

I understand exploring counselling can seem like a big step and if you've never experienced therapy before you might be nervous about how it all works.

With this in mind, I like to offer a free informal 20 minute telephone chat so that we can introduce ourselves. It is an opportunity for us to discuss how we can work together on your counselling journey and to ensure we are a good fit.

If you want to take the next step please don't hesitate to book a slot now for a time that works for you or contact me on kd.kennedy@icloud.com so that we can start to get you the help you seek.

When I work

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

I can be flexible with my availability as I offer counselling in person, online and via the telephone. 

Further information

I currently work with individuals on a one to one basis.

Currently I do not specifically offer family or couples therapy - I am though experienced in working with individuals who may wish to bring related issues to their sessions.

I offer short term (6-8 sessions) or long term 6 months+

Hitchin, Hertfordshire, SG5

Type of session

In person
Online
Phone

Types of client

Young adults (18-24)
Adults (25-64)
Older Adults (65+)

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

Wheelchair user access
Wheelchair user access

Wheelchair-accessible premises should have step-free access for wheelchair users and individuals who are unable to climb stairs. If a Counsellor's premises aren't step-free, they may offer alternative services such as telephone/web-based appointments, home visits, or meeting clients in different location, so you can choose the option that suits you best.

You can contact the Counsellor to discuss the options available.

Under the Equality Act 2010 service providers have a duty to make reasonable adjustments to ensure that individuals with disabilities can access their service. You can read more about reasonable adjustments to help you to access services on the CAB website.

My counselling room is in the centre of Hitchin town close to several car parks and shops. My room is on the ground floor and there is access to toilets.

Online platforms

Doxy
Google Meet
Whatsapp
Microsoft Teams