Vicky McGuirk

Welcome

I'm often asked what led me to become a counsellor. The simple answer is that my own experience of therapy changed the direction of my life. At a time when I needed it most, counselling offered me understanding, clarity and a renewed sense of possibility. That experience inspired me to train as a counsellor and support others on their own journeys.

I believe that every person is unique and that therapy should reflect this. Life can feel overwhelming at times, and it isn't always easy to share our thoughts and feelings with those closest to us. I offer a calm, confidential and non-judgemental space where you can speak openly and explore whatever is on your mind.

Our work together will be guided by your individual needs, helping you make sense of your experiences, understand your thoughts and emotions, and work towards meaningful change at a pace that feels right for you.

I offer face-to-face, online and telephone counselling, allowing you to access support in the way that feels most comfortable and convenient.

A Safe Space for Everyone

I work with adults and young people from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. While I welcome and support all clients, I have particular interests in men's mental health and neurodivergence.

Many men grow up receiving messages that can make it difficult to talk about emotions or ask for support. As a result, reaching out for counselling can sometimes feel uncomfortable or unfamiliar. I am passionate about creating a space where men feel able to speak openly, without fear of judgement, pressure or expectation. Whether you have never spoken about your feelings before or have been carrying difficulties alone for a long time, you will be met with understanding, respect and acceptance.

I also have a strong interest in supporting neurodivergent individuals, including those with ADHD, Autism, or those who may be questioning whether they are neurodivergent. Many neurodivergent people spend years feeling different, misunderstood, overwhelmed, or exhausted from trying to meet expectations that don't reflect their natural way of thinking and experiencing the world. Counselling can provide a space to explore these experiences, develop self-understanding, and build greater self-acceptance. My aim is to offer a supportive, affirming environment where you can be yourself without needing to mask or explain who you are.

At the heart of my practice is the belief that everyone deserves to feel heard, understood and valued. Whatever brings you to counselling, I strive to provide a safe, supportive and inclusive space where we can work together towards meaningful change.

What to Expect

Taking the first step into counselling can feel daunting, so I aim to make the process as comfortable as possible.

I offer an initial telephone conversation, followed by a free 20-minute consultation if appropriate. This gives us an opportunity to meet, discuss what has brought you to counselling, explore what you hope to gain from therapy, and decide whether we feel like a good fit to work together.

Building a trusting therapeutic relationship is important, and I want you to feel safe, comfortable and confident in the space we create together.

If you have any questions before booking, you are welcome to contact me by phone or email.

Sessions and Fees

If you choose to begin counselling, sessions are 50 minutes long and cost £50 per session.

We can work together on either a short-term or longer-term basis, depending on your needs and goals. Throughout our work together, we will regularly review our progress to ensure that counselling continues to meet your needs and support your wellbeing.

My Qualifications and Experience

I am a fully qualified and insured counsellor with experience working with both adults and young people. I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and work in accordance with their Ethical Framework and good practice guidelines.

My experience includes supporting clients with a wide range of concerns, including:

·       Neurodivergence

·       Trauma

·       Bereavement and grief

·       Low self-esteem

·       Life transitions and significant life changes

·       Anxiety

·       Depression

·       Loneliness

·       Relationship difficulties

I am trained in Integrative Counselling, which enables me to draw from a range of therapeutic theories and approaches to tailor our work to your individual needs.

I have been working in private practice for eight years and hold a Certificate in Online and Telephone Counselling, allowing me to confidently and safely provide therapy across different mediums.

All of my clinical work is professionally supervised on a monthly basis, and I regularly undertake Continuing Professional Development (CPD) to ensure my practice remains current, ethical and informed by the latest therapeutic understanding.

Areas of Particular Interest
Alongside my general counselling practice, I have particular interests in:

Men's mental health
Neurodivergence, including ADHD and Autism
Late-diagnosed and self-identifying neurodivergence
Trauma and trauma-informed practice
Bereavement and loss
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Closing Thoughts

Seeking support isn't always easy, especially if you've spent a long time coping on your own, putting others first, or feeling that you need to hide parts of yourself to get through each day, but you don't have to face lifes challenges alone

Whatever has brought you here, my aim is to offer a warm, supportive and non-judgemental space where you can explore your experiences at your own pace and feel genuinely accepted for who you are.

A place where you don't have to pretend, mask, or carry things alone.

£50.00

Testimonials

'I wouldn't be where I am without you. You have helped make me the strong woman I have always wanted to be' CM 

‘I feel much ‘lighter’ and feel like myself again. I haven’t felt like this in ages. My counselling sessions have been a great help.’ VM

‘You have made a difference to the way I feel. It's such a wonderful thing to have someone listen to you. There are few people who can do it with the understanding that you reached out to me. You have made a difference in my life and for this I am grateful.’ SR

‘Thank you for helping me through a difficult time.’ MR

‘Thank you for your help and support during our sessions. I am now entering a new phase of getting used to life without him.’ AE

‘Although my issues were outside influence, which I had no control, the counselling helped me manage my own feelings towards those issues and in turn helped me to make decisions that before the counselling I couldn’t do.’ SL