Nicky Willis

I previously worked as a Health Care Assistant for the elderly. Whilst being on maternity leave with my children, I decided to go back to education and do a Level 2 in counselling skills to help improve my empathic understanding with my patients and their family, especially in times of coping with the transition from home to care home and in times of grief.  Understanding the positive impact of 'just listening' to a person, I decided to carry on with my education, eventually completing a Foundation Degree in Counselling through the University of Ulster.

Throughout training, I had to engage in my own personal counselling therapy. My experience of this was very positive. I was able to gain a different perspective of my issue, address my own thoughts and feelings, the ability to be open and honest, whilst being heard and getting conformation that my own feelings are valid, without fear of being judged.  This lead to a better understanding of myself, challenging my thoughts, better ways of coping, but ultimately giving me the support to make changes in my life. Based on my positive experience, I endeavour to help my client in the same way.

Our initial meeting will offer an opportunity to discuss your issues and what you hope to achieve from counselling. If this is your first experience with counselling, I hope you will feel better informed about what entails and whether or not you feel that this is something that may benefit you. The initial session also provides an indication as to whether or not my counselling approach meets your needs and expectations.

I offer a safe, non-judgemental and empathic environment, which allows you to be open and honest about your thoughts and feelings. 

I use the three Core theories, Person Centred, Psychodynamic and CBT. This approach means that you the client leads the therapy session, meaning being able to talk about a variety of issues, past and present as they arise, instead of being focused on one main issue. It also allows us to work in a collaborative way to help you reduce any anxiety, have a greater understanding of yourself and ultimately reach your desired outcomes while feeling supported. 

Each session lasts between 45-50 minutes and is charged at £40.  Long term and short term sessions are available.   The first initial assessment session is charged at £30. 

Concession rates for trainee counsellors £30 

Payment can be made via bank transfer or cash.

24Hrs notice of cancellation to be given. If less than 24hrs is given, 50% of that session will be charged at the next session, unless there are extenuating circumstances.