Vicky Aykroyd

My name is Vicky Aykroyd. I offer a safe, supportive, confidential space to work through whatever difficulties or challenges you are facing.  I offer empathy and compassion and will not judge you. Together, we can explore your situation in a way which leads to fresh perspectives and perhaps a new understanding of yourself.  Rather than presenting you with solutions or giving advice, I will work to empower you to make your own changes, moving forward with the life you want to lead.

I am an integrative counsellor which means I use a range of approaches and techniques in order to tailor my way of working to take account of your unique needs and preferences. I do not believe in a one size fits all approach.

My core training is in the person-centred approach. In simple terms, this approach is based upon the idea that we each have within us an innate ability to grow and fulfil our potential. Sometimes life experiences can disrupt or block this ability and we need some help to unblock it. I will place you at the heart of the therapy and work with you to understand you and your world from your perspective, rather than presuming I know what it's like to be you.

l will offer a safe space for you to talk about whatever is on your mind without fear of judgement, shame or embarrassment.

At the beginning of therapy, I will talk to you about what you are hoping to achieve and your preferences for working together. We can review the work regularly and make changes as needed.

I work with individuals and couples from all walks of life and backgrounds.  I can support you with a wide range of issues including:

• anxiety
• depression
• stress
• grief
• trauma
• Issues around self confidence and self esteem
• relationship difficulties
• addiction

In my work with couples, some of the most common issues I encounter include:

• trust issues
• affairs and betrayals
• communication difficulties
• issues around sex and intimacy
• decisions around separation and divorce
• second families

Couples counselling is not about apportioning blame. Any issues or problems that arise within the relationship belong to the relationship. My work with couples is about understanding, communication, resolution and growth.

As a qualified counsellor, I am a registered member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy, (BACP) and abide by their Ethical Framework. I am also a member of the International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy, (ICEEFT) and the British Emotionally Focused Therapy Centre, (BEFT).

I see clients at my office in Harborne (B17). The office is in a quiet residential area with private parking and is close to several bus routes.

If you would like to book an appointment or if you are unsure, please get in touch. I am always happy to arrange an initial telephone call to talk about the reasons you are thinking of coming to counselling, whether it could be helpful and if I am the right therapist for you. There is no charge for this. 

I know from personal experience that reaching out and asking for help can feel scary and confusing.  It may not feel like it but, by visiting this site, you have taken the first step towards healing and change.

Please message me and I will get back to you as soon as I can.  

What my clients say:

"Vicky gained an understanding of my life and situation with complete ease and intuitively adapted her methods each session to suit what I needed, meaning our process together flowed very naturally throughout. She made me feel comfortable from our first session to our last, easily creating a safe space for me to speak openly about my difficulties each week. I initially started counselling when I was at ‘breaking point’, struggling to deal with experiences of previous trauma and feeling lost. I had never had counselling before and was worried that I didn’t even know where I should start; but it didn’t matter. Vicky helped me to figure out the help I needed. Together with Vicky my insight into my experiences has hugely improved, and I’ve learnt how best to cope with my emotions towards the past. My sessions with Vicky came to a natural end with me feeling optimistic for the future and ready to move forward". (Clare)

"My daughter and I sought Vicky’s help when we were having difficulties in our relationship. Working with Vicky we have been helped to communicate better and resolve the issues we had. We can’t thank Vicky enough for her help and support and would wholeheartedly recommend her." (M&C)

"I felt extremely comfortable talking with Vicky. She is kind and makes you feel at ease. Vicky creates a safe environment for you to be open and honest with difficult topics. Vicky’s style of counselling really helped me think about issues in a way that I hadn’t thought about before. Vicky’s advice was extremely helpful and easy to follow. I am pleased to say that there has been a huge improvement in my mood since having counselling with Vicky. I now feel like a weight has been lifted off my chest." (Jess) 

"Vicky really helped us to get back on track and start rebuilding the foundations of our relationship" (Mr and Mrs T)

"It was extremely helpful to air out some issues that have been ongoing for some time and have a neutral viewpoint.  Thanks so much again you were excellent" (Mr and Mrs B) 

“I started to work with Vicky when I was at the bottom of the pit. With her help I have climbed out and addressed numerous issues I have had since childhood. I am more settled now than I have ever been. My only wish is that I had found her many years ago as I would have had a much less painful life. The best investment of my time I have ever made” (Roger)

“As soon as I walked into the room Vicky made me feel completely relaxed and comfortable. This was a very big step for me and I wasn’t made to feel awkward at any point. Would highly recommend Vicky’s services” (Kelly)

“I found the therapy sessions with Vicky really helpful in working through the issues I had with some personal relationships. I am in a much better place now” (Adam)

Individual counselling £55.00

Couples counselling £70

Sessions last one hour.

Occasionally, I am able to offer concessions.