About me
Hello, I'm Stephen
Taking the first step towards counselling can feel daunting. You may have been thinking about it for a while, wondering if now is the right time, or whether talking to someone could really help. Whatever has brought you here, I want you to know that you're welcome.
I believe that everyone deserves a space where they can speak openly and honestly without fear of judgement. Life can sometimes feel overwhelming, confusing, or lonely, and carrying those struggles on your own can be exhausting. Counselling offers an opportunity to pause, reflect, and begin making sense of what is happening in your life.
Inspired Counselling Services was born from my own inspiration to help others. Through my personal experiences and professional training, I have seen first-hand how powerful it can be when someone feels truly heard, understood, and accepted. That belief continues to drive the work I do today.
As a qualified counsellor, I work with adults, children, and young people facing a wide range of difficulties, including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, bereavement, relationship issues, anger, stress, and life transitions. Every person is unique, so I tailor my approach to suit the individual sitting in front of me rather than following a one-size-fits-all model.
For children and young people, talking about feelings isn't always easy. This is why I often use creative methods such as sand tray work, small figures, drawing, and other age-appropriate techniques to help them express emotions and experiences in a way that feels natural and safe.
Clients often tell me they appreciate my warm, approachable, and genuine nature. I don't believe counselling is about giving advice or telling you what to do. Instead, I work alongside you, helping you explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences so that you can gain greater understanding, confidence, and clarity.
Many people arrive at their first session feeling nervous. That's completely normal. There is no expectation to share everything straight away. We simply begin where you are, moving at a pace that feels comfortable for you.
Whether you're experiencing a difficult period in your life, struggling with something from your past, or simply looking for a space to understand yourself better, I would be honoured to walk alongside you on your journey.
You don't have to face things alone.
Training, qualifications & experience
Qualifications:
I hold a Foundation Degree in Counselling from the University of Ulster (2014) and a Certificate in Counselling Studies from the University of Ulster (2011). In addition to my counselling qualifications, I have completed a Diploma in Mindfulness and a Diploma in Mindfulness-Based CBT (2015), along with training in Christian Mindfulness. I am also an accredited counselling professional with The Foundation for Infant Loss and have undertaken Child Protection Training. My ongoing professional development reflects my commitment to providing safe, ethical, and effective support to the people I work with.
Experience:
With over 14 years of counselling experience, I have supported a wide range of clients in private practice, from young people aged 11 through to older adults. My clients come from many different backgrounds, cultures, faiths, and countries, each bringing their own unique experiences and challenges. Some clients choose short-term counselling, while others work with me for a longer period. As no two people are the same, I tailor therapy to your individual needs and circumstances.
I have over five years' experience working as a counsellor in secondary schools, supporting young people aged 11 to 18. I have also worked within a primary school setting, collaborating closely with the SEN teacher, principal, and families to support children aged 4 to 11.
In addition, I spent three years working within an adult homeless hostel, supporting individuals facing a wide range of personal and emotional difficulties.
Across these settings, I have worked with people experiencing severe mental health challenges, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, trauma, grief and loss, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, bullying, gambling issues, alcohol and drug addiction, and many other life difficulties.
My experience has taught me that every person's story is unique, and that healing begins when someone feels heard, understood, and accepted without judgement.
Member organisations
school 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.
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
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.
Areas of counselling I deal with
Therapies offered
Photos & videos
Fees
£60.00 per session
Concessions offered for
Additional information
- Standard rates are £60 per session (one hour).
- Children (Aged5-10 years) £60 per session (50 mins).
- Adolescents (Aged11-18 years) £60 per session (50 mins).
- Online Counselling £60 per session (one hour).
- Discounted rate £50 per session for students completing a counselling course.
When I work
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I have online booking available at the address below, or from my website, you can book in with me instantly.
https://inspired-counselling-services.selectandbook.com
Further information
- Precious Babies
I have accredited training and extensive experience supporting individuals and couples through miscarriage, stillbirth, ectopic pregnancy, postnatal depression, fertility difficulties, fertility treatment, pregnancy, and birth.
These experiences can be deeply personal, emotional, and often isolating. I provide a safe, confidential, and compassionate space where you can talk openly about what you are going through, knowing that you will be listened to without judgement and treated with sensitivity, care, and respect.
While much of the focus is understandably placed on women, I recognise that partners can also experience profound grief, loss, confusion, and emotional pain. Men are often expected to be the strong support for others, while their own needs can go unnoticed. I believe their experiences matter too.
My counselling practice offers a safe and understanding environment where you can talk, cry, be angry, sit in silence, or express yourself in whatever way feels right for you. Above all, you will be heard. I will walk alongside you every step of the way.
