Sara Penn Williams

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she/her
MNCPS Acc.

About me

Hello, I’m Sara, I offer counselling for adults and young people aged 16+ online and in person in Berkhamsted. I specialise in neurodivergent-affirming and trauma-informed therapy, providing a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can explore your feelings, find coping strategies and be truly heard, as a unique individual.

Some of the issues clients come to me with are - anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, low mood, the effects of abuse, trauma, neurodivergence in yourself or family members, relationship challenges, inner conflict, parenting struggles, societal pressure and many more.

Regardless of your personal history, background, gender, sexuality, race or neurotype, I’m here to offer support and practical coping strategies as you navigate life. 

My approach

I am an integrative counsellor, meaning that I draw on a variety of approaches to suit your needs. I work with clients of all neurotypes, with a specialism in autism and ADHD and am neurodivergent myself.

During sessions, we may explore your emotions, as well as patterns in your thoughts and behaviours, with the aim of deepening your understanding of your self and finding suitable coping strategies and exploring areas for change.

Our relationship is key, building trust and rapport together, so that meaningful and positive change can be made. I use a number of models within my work, including psychodynamic, person-centred, transactional analysis and cognitive behavioural therapy - don't worry if you don't know what those mean, the important thing is that I will work with you as an individual!

Training, qualifications & experience

Qualifications:

  • CPCAB Level 5 Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling (currently ongoing)
  • CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Integrative Therapeutic Counselling
  • CPCAB Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies
  • Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills

Alongside my private practice, I volunteer with a charity supporting survivors of abuse, with a focus on trauma recovery.

I have also undertaken a range of additional training and CPD (Continuing Professional Development) in areas including:

  • Anger
  • Bereavement
  • Neurodivergence
  • Working creatively in therapy
  • Sex, Love and Relationship Addiction (SLAR)
  • Self-harm
  • Anxiety
  • Abuse and trauma

I am committed to ongoing professional development and regularly attend CPD training to continue deepening and expanding my therapeutic work.

I have particular interests in neurodivergence, parenting and trauma. I have also worked as a secondary school teacher, so understand the unique challenges of being in this profession, as well having an insiders view of how difficult school can be for children who don't 'fit the mould' and the impact this can have on family life.

I offer sessions from a private counselling cabin in the garden of my home in Berkhamsted and online nationwide.

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

Photos & videos

Fees

£60.00 per session

Concessions offered for

  • Trainee counsellors

Additional information

Session length: 50 minutes

Reduced rates are available for counselling trainees, please enquire.

I offer a free 20-minute online video call as an initial meeting. This gives a chance for you to ask any questions and for us to decide whether we’d like to work together. Please email or call/text on 07356 297313 to arrange a time.

If your availability is different from mine, please do get in touch as sessions may be available at other times also.

When I work

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

Further information

Location & Accessibility

I offer sessions from a private and peaceful counselling cabin located in the garden of my home. The space provides a quiet and confidential setting for our work together.

Please note: there are five steps leading up to the cabin, which means it may not be accessible for everyone.

I also offer online sessions.

Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, HP4

Type of session

In person
Online

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

Online platforms

Google Meet