Counselling in St Albans
I am an experienced senior psychologist, with a warm, welcoming and compassionate style. If you are an adult struggling with your emotional wellbeing I can give you the safe and supportive space that you need to work through trauma, life transitions, low mood, anxiety and much more. I am a parent of a neurodiverse child who can support you to navigate the emotional rollercoaster that an unexpected life can be. Psychological therapy with me can help you make sense of the experiences you are having, and come to an understanding about how to move forwards towards a way of being that is meaningful and of value to you.
I am an experienced senior psychologist, with a warm, welcoming and compassionate style. If you are an adult struggling with your emotional wellbeing I can give you the safe and supportive space that you need to work through trauma, life transitions, low mood, anxiety and much more. I am a parent of a neurodiverse child who can support you to navigate the emotional rollercoaster that an unexpected life can be. Psychological therapy with me can help you make sense of the experiences you are having, and come to an understanding about how to move forwards towards a way of being that is meaningful and of value to you.
Struggling with racing thoughts, constant worry or a sense of dread? You're not alone. Our brains are wired to keep us safe by staying on high alert for potential dangers. But when anxiety takes over, this natural defence can become too sensitive, leaving you feeling trapped in a cycle of fear and stress—even when there’s no real danger. This can lead to endless "what if" thoughts or doubts, making everyday situations feel overwhelming and more stressful than they need to be. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) offers practical tools to help you break out of these anxious thought patterns, giving you more control and peace of mind.
Struggling with racing thoughts, constant worry or a sense of dread? You're not alone. Our brains are wired to keep us safe by staying on high alert for potential dangers. But when anxiety takes over, this natural defence can become too sensitive, leaving you feeling trapped in a cycle of fear and stress—even when there’s no real danger. This can lead to endless "what if" thoughts or doubts, making everyday situations feel overwhelming and more stressful than they need to be. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) offers practical tools to help you break out of these anxious thought patterns, giving you more control and peace of mind.
Are you finding it difficult to cope with day to day life and find yourself having to be there to hold up everyone around you, yet struggle to regulate your own emotions and long for someone to be there to support you? Having worked within the NHS for over 20 years supporting all aspects of women’s health and well being, including trauma, anxiety and depression, I am well positioned to help you therapeutically to explore the ways your thoughts, feelings and behaviours may be getting in the way of you living a more fulfilled and happy life.
Are you finding it difficult to cope with day to day life and find yourself having to be there to hold up everyone around you, yet struggle to regulate your own emotions and long for someone to be there to support you? Having worked within the NHS for over 20 years supporting all aspects of women’s health and well being, including trauma, anxiety and depression, I am well positioned to help you therapeutically to explore the ways your thoughts, feelings and behaviours may be getting in the way of you living a more fulfilled and happy life.
Hello and welcome. If you are reading this then you may be about to take a step to reach for support with something you are struggling with or perhaps feeling overwhelmed by. Maybe there is no specific issue, but you are feeling unhappy or dissatisfied with your life. Perhaps you want to focus on your personal growth and development. Whatever the reason, I understand that making the decision to see a counsellor is a big step to take. I offer a warm, holding and supportive space where all feelings, thoughts and experiences are welcome.
Hello and welcome. If you are reading this then you may be about to take a step to reach for support with something you are struggling with or perhaps feeling overwhelmed by. Maybe there is no specific issue, but you are feeling unhappy or dissatisfied with your life. Perhaps you want to focus on your personal growth and development. Whatever the reason, I understand that making the decision to see a counsellor is a big step to take. I offer a warm, holding and supportive space where all feelings, thoughts and experiences are welcome.
If you are struggling with symptoms like depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, panic or sadness, then I may be able to help. We all face difficult times at some point in our lives, but sometimes, they can feel overwhelming and can keep us stuck or make us feel that we are not coping or managing. Finding a counsellor is often hard – indeed it can be too much of a challenge. Because of this, I offer a 20-minute Zoom or phone call – no charge or obligation – so that you can get some idea of what it would be like to work with me.
If you are struggling with symptoms like depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, panic or sadness, then I may be able to help. We all face difficult times at some point in our lives, but sometimes, they can feel overwhelming and can keep us stuck or make us feel that we are not coping or managing. Finding a counsellor is often hard – indeed it can be too much of a challenge. Because of this, I offer a 20-minute Zoom or phone call – no charge or obligation – so that you can get some idea of what it would be like to work with me.
My approach to therapy is informed by ongoing developments in psychological knowledge and research, and is caring and sensitive to your individual needs. Therapy and treatment for a variety of issues, including: anxiety, relationships, couple therapy, depression, stress, trauma, self esteem, workplace issues, dealing with health difficulties, drug and alcohol problems, life difficulties and transition and well being.
My approach to therapy is informed by ongoing developments in psychological knowledge and research, and is caring and sensitive to your individual needs. Therapy and treatment for a variety of issues, including: anxiety, relationships, couple therapy, depression, stress, trauma, self esteem, workplace issues, dealing with health difficulties, drug and alcohol problems, life difficulties and transition and well being.
Luisa Picciuto
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Albans AL1
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, I'm Luisa. I am an Integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist for children and young people. Being an Integrative therapist means I am trained to use various therapeutic modalities and skills to support each young person, including using Play-Based techniques, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Psychodynamic approaches, Person-Centred approach and using Systemic thinking. I work with warmth, empathy, and a non-judgmental attitude, holding space for any young person to explore their feelings and experiences in a safe, ethical environment. I offer a modern and fresh perspective, bringing a warm, ‘human’, welcoming vibe to sessions.
Hello, I'm Luisa. I am an Integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist for children and young people. Being an Integrative therapist means I am trained to use various therapeutic modalities and skills to support each young person, including using Play-Based techniques, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Psychodynamic approaches, Person-Centred approach and using Systemic thinking. I work with warmth, empathy, and a non-judgmental attitude, holding space for any young person to explore their feelings and experiences in a safe, ethical environment. I offer a modern and fresh perspective, bringing a warm, ‘human’, welcoming vibe to sessions.
I am a psychotherapist that specialises in working with children and adolescents. Is your child struggling with anxiety, low mood, managing their emotions or attending school? I also specialise in offering mental health support to children and adolescents with an ASD or ADHD diagnosis. My goal is to provide timely and individualised private therapy, helping your child navigate these complexities, by fostering resilience and empowering both you and your child.
I am a psychotherapist that specialises in working with children and adolescents. Is your child struggling with anxiety, low mood, managing their emotions or attending school? I also specialise in offering mental health support to children and adolescents with an ASD or ADHD diagnosis. My goal is to provide timely and individualised private therapy, helping your child navigate these complexities, by fostering resilience and empowering both you and your child.
It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life, and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to facilitate you, in the process of self exploration and growth. I work collaboratively with my clients to create an open and safe environment, where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgement. Fostering a supportive and empowering relationship, I aim to support you by helping you to gain valuable insights into your self and develop self awareness, make changes and build resilience so that you can face life’s challenges and live a more fulfilling life.
It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life, and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to facilitate you, in the process of self exploration and growth. I work collaboratively with my clients to create an open and safe environment, where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgement. Fostering a supportive and empowering relationship, I aim to support you by helping you to gain valuable insights into your self and develop self awareness, make changes and build resilience so that you can face life’s challenges and live a more fulfilling life.
I am Clinical Psychologist providing therapy to help you live a more rewarding and fulfilling life. I can help you to explore your difficulties, explore your early life experiences and rebuild the life you want to live. Starting therapy can be daunting. I am skilled in making you feel comfortable to talk about what you have been struggling with.
I am Clinical Psychologist providing therapy to help you live a more rewarding and fulfilling life. I can help you to explore your difficulties, explore your early life experiences and rebuild the life you want to live. Starting therapy can be daunting. I am skilled in making you feel comfortable to talk about what you have been struggling with.
If we never take a leap of faith then we never know. More significantly we remain stuck. I often talk to clients about the power of change. In my work I am for people to gain a greater understanding of who they really are. Whilst enabling them to explore their feelings, circumstances and relationships. The goal of our work together is to challenge any destructive patterns or behaviours and work towards positive active change. In the end this enables people to live a more fulfilling and calmer life.
If we never take a leap of faith then we never know. More significantly we remain stuck. I often talk to clients about the power of change. In my work I am for people to gain a greater understanding of who they really are. Whilst enabling them to explore their feelings, circumstances and relationships. The goal of our work together is to challenge any destructive patterns or behaviours and work towards positive active change. In the end this enables people to live a more fulfilling and calmer life.
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As therapists for both adults & children we understand the impact of today's ever changing world can have on us at any age. We will offer you the opportunity to talk through your worries and feel more emotionally tolerant for the future ahead; whichever path you choose to take. We can help you build your self-esteem and promote confidence in your own ability; using the tools you already have and new ones you'll develop. Anxiety, anger, depression & shame are words we're hearing more frequently but have we become intolerant to experiencing them? We offer you an opportunity to talk through your issues in an emotionally healthy way.
As therapists for both adults & children we understand the impact of today's ever changing world can have on us at any age. We will offer you the opportunity to talk through your worries and feel more emotionally tolerant for the future ahead; whichever path you choose to take. We can help you build your self-esteem and promote confidence in your own ability; using the tools you already have and new ones you'll develop. Anxiety, anger, depression & shame are words we're hearing more frequently but have we become intolerant to experiencing them? We offer you an opportunity to talk through your issues in an emotionally healthy way.
I work with women to explore and strengthen their low self-esteem. If you feel not good enough, often experience jealousy or comparison or you're prone to people pleasing, then self esteem counselling may be for you. We live in a high pressure world and many things can contribute towards low self-esteem – a difficult childhood, a hurtful comment or a disappointing relationship. But self-esteem can be renewed and repaired. Many of my clients report feeling significantly better after completing our counselling sessions together. And they go on to create a life they love.
I work with women to explore and strengthen their low self-esteem. If you feel not good enough, often experience jealousy or comparison or you're prone to people pleasing, then self esteem counselling may be for you. We live in a high pressure world and many things can contribute towards low self-esteem – a difficult childhood, a hurtful comment or a disappointing relationship. But self-esteem can be renewed and repaired. Many of my clients report feeling significantly better after completing our counselling sessions together. And they go on to create a life they love.
I am a qualified and registered Art Therapist who is passionate about helping children and young people express their emotions and reflect on their experiences through art and play. Art therapy is an established form of psychotherapy. Art materials are used to help facilitate understanding of our emotions and experiences allowing communication and self-reflection to take place. I take a non-directive approach to allow the client to explore their experiences and emotions in a way that is most natural to them.
I am a qualified and registered Art Therapist who is passionate about helping children and young people express their emotions and reflect on their experiences through art and play. Art therapy is an established form of psychotherapy. Art materials are used to help facilitate understanding of our emotions and experiences allowing communication and self-reflection to take place. I take a non-directive approach to allow the client to explore their experiences and emotions in a way that is most natural to them.
Penny Glazebrook Counselling and Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych
Verified Verified
St Albans AL1
Whether you simply need counselling and want to talk to a professional counsellor in confidence to discuss general worries that may have become constraints in your life or need an in-depth psychotherapeutic approach to explore deep-seated long standing issues; as an experienced integrative counselling psychotherapist in private practice, I can offer you individually tailored sessions to promote understanding and enable change in a warm and non-judgemental environment. Privacy and Confidentiality are assured.
Whether you simply need counselling and want to talk to a professional counsellor in confidence to discuss general worries that may have become constraints in your life or need an in-depth psychotherapeutic approach to explore deep-seated long standing issues; as an experienced integrative counselling psychotherapist in private practice, I can offer you individually tailored sessions to promote understanding and enable change in a warm and non-judgemental environment. Privacy and Confidentiality are assured.
Therapy is one time when it is all about you. Your experiences, your feelings. When things feel difficult – whether or not you know the reasons why, therapy can really help. How? At the heart of therapy is your relationship with your therapist. When your therapist offers you space to think and to feel, uninterrupted and without judgement, you can start to make more sense of things, together. So it’s important to find a good connection. There are many types of therapist – it’s not necessarily sensible shoes and long silences.
Therapy is one time when it is all about you. Your experiences, your feelings. When things feel difficult – whether or not you know the reasons why, therapy can really help. How? At the heart of therapy is your relationship with your therapist. When your therapist offers you space to think and to feel, uninterrupted and without judgement, you can start to make more sense of things, together. So it’s important to find a good connection. There are many types of therapist – it’s not necessarily sensible shoes and long silences.
Whether you're seeking improved wellbeing, better tools to cope with stress, anxiety or depression, experiencing burnout or just ready to explore some changes that could bring you closer to the life you want to be living, Vanessa can support you in this process. Using an integrative approach grown from a decade of experience within various mental health settings, Vanessa now works with individuals experiencing both common and complex mental health difficulties. She has experience in Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness and Creative methods and is trained in Process Oriented Psychotherapy.
Whether you're seeking improved wellbeing, better tools to cope with stress, anxiety or depression, experiencing burnout or just ready to explore some changes that could bring you closer to the life you want to be living, Vanessa can support you in this process. Using an integrative approach grown from a decade of experience within various mental health settings, Vanessa now works with individuals experiencing both common and complex mental health difficulties. She has experience in Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness and Creative methods and is trained in Process Oriented Psychotherapy.
Doug Hobson
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
St Albans AL3 (Online Only)
I am an HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist and BABCP accredited CBT Therapist. Struggling to concentrate or sleep due to worry? Avoiding going out because you are scared of what other's may think of you? Paralysed by panic attacks? Feeling trapped by intrusive thoughts? I can help you break free of the symptoms of anxiety and low mood that are stopping you from living the life you want to live. As a qualified and registered Clinical Psychologist I have a wealth of experience working with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety, Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Depression and Health or Death anxiety.
I am an HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist and BABCP accredited CBT Therapist. Struggling to concentrate or sleep due to worry? Avoiding going out because you are scared of what other's may think of you? Paralysed by panic attacks? Feeling trapped by intrusive thoughts? I can help you break free of the symptoms of anxiety and low mood that are stopping you from living the life you want to live. As a qualified and registered Clinical Psychologist I have a wealth of experience working with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety, Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Depression and Health or Death anxiety.
People who sincerely want change and are willing to look within will find a committed cheerleader in me. Identifying unconscious patterns is often uncomfortable work. Learning to have grace and self-compassion in those tight spots ought to be taught in schools. Until then, there's person centred therapy. (Search 'Carl Rogers and Gloria' for a fantastic, if grainy intro to Unconditional Positive Regard)
People who sincerely want change and are willing to look within will find a committed cheerleader in me. Identifying unconscious patterns is often uncomfortable work. Learning to have grace and self-compassion in those tight spots ought to be taught in schools. Until then, there's person centred therapy. (Search 'Carl Rogers and Gloria' for a fantastic, if grainy intro to Unconditional Positive Regard)
Asking for help can be difficult and contacting a therapist may feel scary. That’s why from our first contact I aim to create a safe, confidential non-judgemental space for you to explore your difficulties. Talking to a therapist offers a different perspective on how you feel and relate to others. We’ll draw on your past and present to find new ways to move forward for the best future for you. We can all get stuck reacting in ways that are not always useful to our wellbeing. Working with a psychotherapist brings insight into how we react, why we react that way, and changing negative patterns thinking, feeling and behaviour.
Asking for help can be difficult and contacting a therapist may feel scary. That’s why from our first contact I aim to create a safe, confidential non-judgemental space for you to explore your difficulties. Talking to a therapist offers a different perspective on how you feel and relate to others. We’ll draw on your past and present to find new ways to move forward for the best future for you. We can all get stuck reacting in ways that are not always useful to our wellbeing. Working with a psychotherapist brings insight into how we react, why we react that way, and changing negative patterns thinking, feeling and behaviour.
See more therapy options for St Albans
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in St Albans
200+
Average cost per session
£70
Counsellors in St Albans who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
91% | Depression |
87% | Self Esteem |
76% | Stress |
75% | Relationship Issues |
65% | Trauma and PTSD |
64% | Bereavement |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
66% | Aviva |
55% | AXA PPP |
55% | Vitality |
How Counsellors in St Albans see their clients
85% | In Person and Online | |
15% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
83% | Female | |
17% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in St Albans?
Search for nearby therapists or counsellors by inputting your city, postcode, or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or postcode into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
Counsellors and Psychotherapists listed in the directory are members of the main professional associations, mainly the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP). Most Psychologists in the directory are accredited members of the British Psychological Society (BPS) and/or are registered in the Health and Care Professions Council (HPCP).
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for psychotherapists and counsellors in the UK, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for psychotherapists and counsellors in the UK, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counsellor?
Counsellors, psychotherapists and psychologists can all provide counselling or talking therapy and have credentials and experience that enable them to do so in the UK. Psychologists have earned a degree in psychology and many are members of the British Psychological Society (BPS) and have completed a postgraduate qualification in a specialism. Counsellors and Psychotherapists are not required to have a psychology degree, but to belong to a professional organisation such as the BACP or UKCP, they are required to have completed a training course as well as clinical and supervision hours.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the UK could be between £30 - £60 when seeing a counsellor and £60 - £150 and up when seeing a clinical psychologist. If you have private insurance, your plan may cover some if not all of your sessions. You should contact your insurance provider to determine if they provide coverage for therapy sessions and to determine what, if any, requirements they might have in order for your sessions to be covered, such as a referral from your GP or medical specialist.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. The NHS Talking therapies programme offers free of charge counselling for common mental health problems like anxiety and depression. The service is available to anyone registered with a GP, though you do not necessarily need to be referred by your GP and can refer yourself directly to a Talking therapies service. The service will provide different solutions, including group and individual therapy, for a limited number of sessions which are generally up to six.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. The NHS Talking therapies programme offers free of charge counselling for common mental health problems like anxiety and depression. The service is available to anyone registered with a GP, though you do not necessarily need to be referred by your GP and can refer yourself directly to a Talking therapies service. The service will provide different solutions, including group and individual therapy, for a limited number of sessions which are generally up to six.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your postcode.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Therapists who are part of a professional organisation such as the BACP, the UKCP, or BPS are bound by an ethical framework that requires them to uphold a confidentiality agreement. Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship and only under specific circumstances, such as when there has been participation in a criminal act or act of terror, or if there is potential or known harm to the client or others, will a therapist be obligated to break the agreement. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed during the initial consultation.