Saffron Townsend

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she/her

About me

I know how hard it can feel to reach out for support. Especially if you’ve ever felt misunderstood, judged, or like you didn’t quite fit in. As someone who is AuDHD myself, I understand how difficult therapy can sometimes be when it isn’t neurodivergent-affirming. That’s why my priority is to offer a space that feels safe, warm, and genuinely human.

I work in a trauma-informed and neurodivergent-affirming way, with an awareness of how past experiences, identity, and the systems around us shape our lives. My own lived experience means I value authenticity over perfection, and I welcome the whole of you - messy, complex, and human - into the room.

I’m a relational counsellor, which means I place our connection at the centre of the work. I don’t hide behind the title of “counsellor” - what you see is who I am. I meet you with empathy, curiosity, and respect, so we can explore what matters most to you together.

I work integratively, drawing on Internal Family Systems (IFS), Gestalt, Transactional Analysis (TA) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), tailoring sessions to your needs and pace.

My intention is to create a space where you feel understood, where your whole self is welcome, and where healing (whatever that means for you!) becomes possible in your own time and your own way.

I see your experiences not just as individual, but as deeply shaped by relationships, culture, and society. I don’t approach counselling with the idea that you need to be “fixed,” but with respect for the context you’re living in.

I have previously worked in the Rape Crisis centres, including managing a Domestic Violence counselling service. 

I have particular experience working alongside people affected by trauma, neurodivergence, disability, abuse, complex shame, dissociation, body image issues, and complex family dynamics. Whatever your story, my focus is on supporting you to find strength, clarity, and self-trust. 

Training, qualifications & experience

  • Level 5 Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling Practice
  • Level 4 Diploma in Counselling Skills and Theory
  • Level 3 Diploma in Hypnotherapy and Counselling Skills

Member organisations

Registered / Accredited

Registered / Accredited

Being registered/accredited with a professional body means an individual must have achieved a substantial level of training and experience approved by their member organisation.

NCPS
National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society (NCPS)

The National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society This Not For Profit association of counsellors and psychotherapists aim to support the counselling profession, members and training organisations. In 2013 the NCS register was accredited by the Professional Standards Authority under the Accredited Voluntary Register Scheme. Accredited by the Professional Standards Authority.

Accredited register membership

National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society
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.

National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society

Areas of counselling I deal with

Other areas of counselling I deal with

My areas of speciality include: 

  • Autism, ADHD and other Neurodiversity
  • Disability
  • Sexual violence 
  • Domestic Abuse 
  • Family issues, including estrangement and going limited or no contact 
  • Shame

Fees

£60.00 per session

Concessions offered for

  • Low income
  • Keyworkers
  • Students
  • Trainee counsellors
  • Unemployed
  • Refugees

Additional information

In-person sessions are £65. Online sessions are £60. 

Concession fees available upon request for those on low-income, students, student counsellors and NHS staff.

When I work

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

Further information

If you would like to get in touch to discuss counselling, please use the contact details below.

I know sending an initial communication can be daunting. It would be helpful if you let me know your name, a brief reason for counselling, and your availability for an initial consultation when reaching out for the first time.

Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, MK17

Bristol, City of Bristol, BS4

Type of session

In person
Online
Phone

Types of client

Young people (13-17)
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.

Central Milton Keynes counselling room. First floor with option to use lift. Disabled WC available on site.

Online platforms

Google Meet
Microsoft Teams
Saffron Townsend
Saffron Townsend