Female Counselling in West End, Edinburgh

Photo of Ela Lourenco, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Ela Lourenco
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West End, Edinburgh EH3
Are you struggling with moments of anxiety or going through a hard time you cannot seem to shake off? Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious or numb? Life can be challenging at times, as though nothing will feel right again. Sometimes, it can feel as though life 'should feel good' and you cannot understand why you feel so low. It can feel isolating and lonely to not be able to express to your family and friends how you feel - perhaps this has made you feel 'invisible'. Or others' needs have come first for so long that you no longer are in touch with what you need for yourself and find it hard to truly feel connected with others.
Are you struggling with moments of anxiety or going through a hard time you cannot seem to shake off? Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious or numb? Life can be challenging at times, as though nothing will feel right again. Sometimes, it can feel as though life 'should feel good' and you cannot understand why you feel so low. It can feel isolating and lonely to not be able to express to your family and friends how you feel - perhaps this has made you feel 'invisible'. Or others' needs have come first for so long that you no longer are in touch with what you need for yourself and find it hard to truly feel connected with others.
0131 381 4853 View 0131 381 4853
Photo of Holly Allen, MBACP, Counsellor
Holly Allen
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
West End, Edinburgh EH3
Coming to counselling is daunting - I want to eleviate as much of those initial fears as I can - I will never push my clients to speak about anything they are not ready to. My sessions go at my clients pace - I am not the expert in their lives - they are, my clients autonomy is something that I will encourage my clients to explore. Quite often we have the answers and know ourselves what we need to do to change or improve our lives but we need the help to uncover it.  In a world of filters, social media and the insatiable need to always be and want more it is no wonder the children and young people in our lives are suffering.
Coming to counselling is daunting - I want to eleviate as much of those initial fears as I can - I will never push my clients to speak about anything they are not ready to. My sessions go at my clients pace - I am not the expert in their lives - they are, my clients autonomy is something that I will encourage my clients to explore. Quite often we have the answers and know ourselves what we need to do to change or improve our lives but we need the help to uncover it.  In a world of filters, social media and the insatiable need to always be and want more it is no wonder the children and young people in our lives are suffering.
0131 381 4558 View 0131 381 4558
Photo of Barbara Balazs, MSc, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Barbara Balazs
Counsellor, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
West End, Edinburgh EH3
We are living in a constantly changing world, where we are exposed to a lot of triggers. It is understandable that you are finding it difficult to cope. Do you know exactly what are the issues you are facing? Or maybe you know there is something that just isn’t right, but could not pinpoint what it could be? Either way, it can be a great starting point for therapy.
We are living in a constantly changing world, where we are exposed to a lot of triggers. It is understandable that you are finding it difficult to cope. Do you know exactly what are the issues you are facing? Or maybe you know there is something that just isn’t right, but could not pinpoint what it could be? Either way, it can be a great starting point for therapy.
0131 381 0184 View 0131 381 0184
Photo of Marika Maria Lisowska Gestalt Therapy, MUKCP, Counsellor
Marika Maria Lisowska Gestalt Therapy
Counsellor, MUKCP
Verified Verified
West End, Edinburgh EH12
I get that it’s not easy to ask for support and admit to vulnerability. I view therapy as as a journey of discovery, healing and growth. Through 'experiential learning' and 'dialogue' we will work with your ‘embodied awareness’ of ‘how’ you are in relationships, ‘how’ you make choices and ‘how’ you co-create your world. We will look at where you feel 'stuck' and what seems 'difficult'; we will 'stay with' the feelings and complexity that may unfold. I believe change happens organically when we have enough 'support', fully acknowledge the situation we are in, and commit to work.If that resonates with you, please contact me.
I get that it’s not easy to ask for support and admit to vulnerability. I view therapy as as a journey of discovery, healing and growth. Through 'experiential learning' and 'dialogue' we will work with your ‘embodied awareness’ of ‘how’ you are in relationships, ‘how’ you make choices and ‘how’ you co-create your world. We will look at where you feel 'stuck' and what seems 'difficult'; we will 'stay with' the feelings and complexity that may unfold. I believe change happens organically when we have enough 'support', fully acknowledge the situation we are in, and commit to work.If that resonates with you, please contact me.
0131 381 8048 View 0131 381 8048
Photo of Maggi Scott, BACP, Counsellor
Maggi Scott
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
West End, Edinburgh EH12
From my own life experience & personal development trainings and counselling career, I have a deep compassion and understanding that underpins my work as a therapist supporting people experiencing emotional suffering and difficult circumstances.I have supported clients with many different issues and situations and can offer a wide range of helpful things such as teaching breathwork and visualisations for practising outside sessions. i have extensive experience working with clients experiencing struggles with bereavement, chronic illness, depression, anxiety and trauma.
From my own life experience & personal development trainings and counselling career, I have a deep compassion and understanding that underpins my work as a therapist supporting people experiencing emotional suffering and difficult circumstances.I have supported clients with many different issues and situations and can offer a wide range of helpful things such as teaching breathwork and visualisations for practising outside sessions. i have extensive experience working with clients experiencing struggles with bereavement, chronic illness, depression, anxiety and trauma.
0131 381 0006 View 0131 381 0006
Photo of Ali Hogan, MBACP, Counsellor
Ali Hogan
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
West End, Edinburgh EH12
When we are trying to make sense of our situation or understand ourselves, we may feel we need someone to hear us. It could be something in particular that is causing you difficulties such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, low self confidence, bereavement or relationship issues (family, personal or work). Or it can be a feeling of uncertainty, something about how you are feeling isn't quite right. We are all part of an interconnected world influenced by and influencing our relationships and situations. For this reason I give attention to what is happening now, your personal history, life situation and narrative.
When we are trying to make sense of our situation or understand ourselves, we may feel we need someone to hear us. It could be something in particular that is causing you difficulties such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, low self confidence, bereavement or relationship issues (family, personal or work). Or it can be a feeling of uncertainty, something about how you are feeling isn't quite right. We are all part of an interconnected world influenced by and influencing our relationships and situations. For this reason I give attention to what is happening now, your personal history, life situation and narrative.
0131 381 3457 View 0131 381 3457
Photo of Sandra Cunniffe, MA, BACP, Counsellor
Sandra Cunniffe
Counsellor, MA, BACP
Verified Verified
West End, Edinburgh EH12
Fàilte! Welcome! My name is Sandra and I am a person-centred / psychodynamic counsellor. If you are looking at this, there is probably something in your life that is causing you concern, distress or anxiety and you would like to change it in some way. Almost all of us experience times in our lives when we feel low. There are many issues that can affect our well-being, our confidence and how we relate to others. There could be any number of reasons for feeling unhappy or discontent. It could be grief, loss, trauma, abuse or relationship issues. It could be that you do not know why you feel as you do.
Fàilte! Welcome! My name is Sandra and I am a person-centred / psychodynamic counsellor. If you are looking at this, there is probably something in your life that is causing you concern, distress or anxiety and you would like to change it in some way. Almost all of us experience times in our lives when we feel low. There are many issues that can affect our well-being, our confidence and how we relate to others. There could be any number of reasons for feeling unhappy or discontent. It could be grief, loss, trauma, abuse or relationship issues. It could be that you do not know why you feel as you do.
0131 381 8802 View 0131 381 8802
Photo of Bryana Gardner, UKCP Trainee, Counsellor
Bryana Gardner
Counsellor, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
West End, Edinburgh EH3
I am a trainee counsellor, offering affordable, psychosynthesis therapy sessions in central Edinburgh. People often turn to therapy because of addictive behaviours, anxiety, emotional instability, relationship struggles, grief stemming from the loss of a loved one or significant life changes such as health or career shifts. Together, we can explore your unconscious processes, giving meaning to the sub-personalities that shape your day-to-day interactions. By acknowledging these diverse facets of the self, you can then make informed choices that are more aligned with your journey of personal growth, leading to a more meaningful life.
I am a trainee counsellor, offering affordable, psychosynthesis therapy sessions in central Edinburgh. People often turn to therapy because of addictive behaviours, anxiety, emotional instability, relationship struggles, grief stemming from the loss of a loved one or significant life changes such as health or career shifts. Together, we can explore your unconscious processes, giving meaning to the sub-personalities that shape your day-to-day interactions. By acknowledging these diverse facets of the self, you can then make informed choices that are more aligned with your journey of personal growth, leading to a more meaningful life.
0131 381 8127 View 0131 381 8127
Photo of Paula Straube - Paula Straube Therapy
Paula Straube Therapy
Verified Verified
West End, Edinburgh EH3
Navigating the complexities of our world can be overwhelming, both personally and societally. Challenges often arise, putting pressure on our sense of identity and our relationships. It's common to feel a range of emotions in response – anxiety, depression, alienation, hostility, or numbness. These are all deeply human reactions, highlighting our capacity for thought and emotion. While your coping mechanisms may have served you in the past, they might no longer support your pursuit of a more autonomous and satisfying life. Seeking therapy is an empowering step toward personal growth and navigating life's challenges.
Navigating the complexities of our world can be overwhelming, both personally and societally. Challenges often arise, putting pressure on our sense of identity and our relationships. It's common to feel a range of emotions in response – anxiety, depression, alienation, hostility, or numbness. These are all deeply human reactions, highlighting our capacity for thought and emotion. While your coping mechanisms may have served you in the past, they might no longer support your pursuit of a more autonomous and satisfying life. Seeking therapy is an empowering step toward personal growth and navigating life's challenges.
01383 663892 View 01383 663892
Photo of Siobhan Docherty - Vista Wellbeing - CBT Online & Edinburgh, MBACP, Counsellor
Vista Wellbeing - CBT Online & Edinburgh
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
West End, Edinburgh EH3
Hi, I'm Siobhan, a CBT Therapist. I work clients in person in Edinburgh's West End, online or by phone. In our sessions you can expect me to be warm, empathetic, encouraging, non-judgemental and supportive. Clients have described me as friendly, with a calm and easy style. It's a privilege to provide a confidential safe space for people to open up and be heard. Change is always possible. I want to help you discover the tools inside yourself to see things from a new perspective and live a more empowered life. I will be with you every step of the journey to help you reach your goals of growth and change.
Hi, I'm Siobhan, a CBT Therapist. I work clients in person in Edinburgh's West End, online or by phone. In our sessions you can expect me to be warm, empathetic, encouraging, non-judgemental and supportive. Clients have described me as friendly, with a calm and easy style. It's a privilege to provide a confidential safe space for people to open up and be heard. Change is always possible. I want to help you discover the tools inside yourself to see things from a new perspective and live a more empowered life. I will be with you every step of the journey to help you reach your goals of growth and change.
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Photo of Bennie Sanio - BeeSan Psychotherapy and Counselling Services, MBACP, Psychotherapist
BeeSan Psychotherapy and Counselling Services
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
West End, Edinburgh EH12
Starting therapy may seem daunting at first as we try to make sense of our world, thoughts, feelings and emotions. We might be repeating patterns of behaviour in our present lives due to past experiences and patterns. I want to help you shift mental blocks, untangle complex emotions, resolve issues and reveal new perspectives. Whether it’s self-development, addressing emotional and psychological issues, or processing traumatic events, I will work with you to help you become more integrated in yourself. I offer both online and in-person appointments in the centre of Edinburgh where we will work together to help you achieve your goal.
Starting therapy may seem daunting at first as we try to make sense of our world, thoughts, feelings and emotions. We might be repeating patterns of behaviour in our present lives due to past experiences and patterns. I want to help you shift mental blocks, untangle complex emotions, resolve issues and reveal new perspectives. Whether it’s self-development, addressing emotional and psychological issues, or processing traumatic events, I will work with you to help you become more integrated in yourself. I offer both online and in-person appointments in the centre of Edinburgh where we will work together to help you achieve your goal.
0131 381 8083 View 0131 381 8083
Photo of Jane Edwards, MSc, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Jane Edwards
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
West End, Edinburgh EH12
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Unhappy, experiencing relationship problems, feeling alone or held back by trauma or bereavement? Are you seeking counselling for a child or young person? Therapy can be short term, 4-6 sessions and we can work together in a highly focused way, including exploring strategies if you wish to. For some, longer term therapy is preferred. In this we can explore issues in greater depth and you can be supported to make lasting changes in your life. For children, therapy happens in the midst of play and craft activities.
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Unhappy, experiencing relationship problems, feeling alone or held back by trauma or bereavement? Are you seeking counselling for a child or young person? Therapy can be short term, 4-6 sessions and we can work together in a highly focused way, including exploring strategies if you wish to. For some, longer term therapy is preferred. In this we can explore issues in greater depth and you can be supported to make lasting changes in your life. For children, therapy happens in the midst of play and craft activities.
0131 381 4264 View 0131 381 4264
Photo of Sally Wright - Sally Counselling and Psychotherapy, PMCOSCA, Psychotherapist
Sally Counselling and Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, PMCOSCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West End, Edinburgh EH12
The last few years have been disorientating, changing us and the world around us. It's no wonder we're feeling more anxious and confused as we adjust and process the last few years. You may find that issues you coped with before are now magnified and more painful. Difficult experiences in your past can resurface and you may feel there is no-one you can be honest with about your thoughts. Whatever you are struggling with, sharing your issues in confidence, at your pace can help you gain the clarity and control you need in your life.
The last few years have been disorientating, changing us and the world around us. It's no wonder we're feeling more anxious and confused as we adjust and process the last few years. You may find that issues you coped with before are now magnified and more painful. Difficult experiences in your past can resurface and you may feel there is no-one you can be honest with about your thoughts. Whatever you are struggling with, sharing your issues in confidence, at your pace can help you gain the clarity and control you need in your life.
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Photo of Kat Boczek, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Kat Boczek
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
West End, Edinburgh EH3
I am a Person-Centred counsellor, which means I work collaboratively with you to develop a personalised approach that fits your unique needs. I especially enjoy supporting individuals dealing with ADHD, Autism, navigating questions of identity and sexuality, or struggling with work stress and burnout. I'm committed to working with neurodivergent clients in a neuro-affirming way, valuing their unique experiences and strengths. I also strive to create a safe and affirming space for LGBTQAI+ individuals and members of other marginalised communities.
I am a Person-Centred counsellor, which means I work collaboratively with you to develop a personalised approach that fits your unique needs. I especially enjoy supporting individuals dealing with ADHD, Autism, navigating questions of identity and sexuality, or struggling with work stress and burnout. I'm committed to working with neurodivergent clients in a neuro-affirming way, valuing their unique experiences and strengths. I also strive to create a safe and affirming space for LGBTQAI+ individuals and members of other marginalised communities.
0131 378 8351 View 0131 378 8351
Photo of Mengyao Yuan, MA, BACP, Psychotherapist
Mengyao Yuan
Psychotherapist, MA, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West End, Edinburgh EH2
I work with people who find it difficult to know who they are, what they want from life, and to motivate themselves to take actions. I also work with people who find it hard to establish and maintain meaningful relationships with others, who struggle to give and receive love. I am also experienced in working with trauma and loss. My practice is informed by psychodynamic, person-centred and existential theories. I aim to provide warmth, respect and acceptance while helping you to gain a better understanding of your personal history, your experiences, and to find meanings in your existence.
I work with people who find it difficult to know who they are, what they want from life, and to motivate themselves to take actions. I also work with people who find it hard to establish and maintain meaningful relationships with others, who struggle to give and receive love. I am also experienced in working with trauma and loss. My practice is informed by psychodynamic, person-centred and existential theories. I aim to provide warmth, respect and acceptance while helping you to gain a better understanding of your personal history, your experiences, and to find meanings in your existence.
0131 510 3423 View 0131 510 3423
Photo of Camilla Akoo, BACP, Psychotherapist
Camilla Akoo
Psychotherapist, BACP
Verified Verified
West End, Edinburgh EH3
I have a particular interest in working with anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, relationship issues and attachment issues, but I have also worked with many clients who are struggling with depression, suicidal ideation, loss and gender issues. Furthermore, I have also worked with a number of clients who were either waiting on assessment for, or who had recently been diagnosed with either ASD or ADHD, and were looking for support on managing the impact that these neuro-divergences have on their day to day lives and relationships.
I have a particular interest in working with anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, relationship issues and attachment issues, but I have also worked with many clients who are struggling with depression, suicidal ideation, loss and gender issues. Furthermore, I have also worked with a number of clients who were either waiting on assessment for, or who had recently been diagnosed with either ASD or ADHD, and were looking for support on managing the impact that these neuro-divergences have on their day to day lives and relationships.
0131 322 1641 View 0131 322 1641
Photo of Suzanne Price, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Suzanne Price
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
West End, Edinburgh EH12
Life can be a challenge leaving us wondering what to do next with anxious feelings, low self esteem and depression. This can be down to relationship troubles, grief, loss or life traumas. When you need some time and space to process your feelings in a calm, confidential place. I can offer support for whats happening just now to help you gain some new understanding and meaning of your situation.
Life can be a challenge leaving us wondering what to do next with anxious feelings, low self esteem and depression. This can be down to relationship troubles, grief, loss or life traumas. When you need some time and space to process your feelings in a calm, confidential place. I can offer support for whats happening just now to help you gain some new understanding and meaning of your situation.
0131 381 1293 View 0131 381 1293
Photo of Pauline Bell, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Pauline Bell
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
West End, Edinburgh EH3
I work with individuals (16+) experiencing a range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, trauma, life-transitions & relationship difficulties. Whatever your concerns, I believe that therapy can be an important tool in helping us to understand our thoughts, feelings, choices & experiences better. When we can do this, we are better equipped to make the choices that are right for us and to live in more satisfying ways. If you are struggling with something in your life, talking it through in a confidential space with a trained and experienced listener can help make sense of problems, offer new perspectives & clarify choices.
I work with individuals (16+) experiencing a range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, trauma, life-transitions & relationship difficulties. Whatever your concerns, I believe that therapy can be an important tool in helping us to understand our thoughts, feelings, choices & experiences better. When we can do this, we are better equipped to make the choices that are right for us and to live in more satisfying ways. If you are struggling with something in your life, talking it through in a confidential space with a trained and experienced listener can help make sense of problems, offer new perspectives & clarify choices.
0131 378 8335 View 0131 378 8335
Photo of Simona Di Folco, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Simona Di Folco
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
West End, Edinburgh EH3
Seeking help is not easy; if you land on this page, you are brave, as it takes great courage. You are not alone in this struggle, and I am here to offer you a safe and compassionate space where you can explore your innermost thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment. Together, we will delve into the root causes of your suffering, unravelling the patterns that keep you feeling stuck and overwhelmed. My approach, combining individualised psychodynamic techniques with genuine empathy and understanding, sets me apart as a therapist.
Seeking help is not easy; if you land on this page, you are brave, as it takes great courage. You are not alone in this struggle, and I am here to offer you a safe and compassionate space where you can explore your innermost thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment. Together, we will delve into the root causes of your suffering, unravelling the patterns that keep you feeling stuck and overwhelmed. My approach, combining individualised psychodynamic techniques with genuine empathy and understanding, sets me apart as a therapist.
01764 910432 View 01764 910432
Photo of Dr Carolyn McKerracher, PhD, MCOSCA, Counsellor
Dr Carolyn McKerracher
Counsellor, PhD, MCOSCA
Verified Verified
West End, Edinburgh EH3
I am a psychodynamic counsellor, previously a Clinical Scientist (physicist) in NHS cancer services and more recently, a community educator, working alongside people experiencing multiple disadvantage, trauma, addiction, or exclusion. As a counsellor, I have in two counselling services in the Third Sector, one for people experiencing mental health difficulties, such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, loss, grief, or trauma and one for people with physical ill-health conditions, including carers, families and friends. These experiences, plus life itself, have led me to this, my third career and vocation.
I am a psychodynamic counsellor, previously a Clinical Scientist (physicist) in NHS cancer services and more recently, a community educator, working alongside people experiencing multiple disadvantage, trauma, addiction, or exclusion. As a counsellor, I have in two counselling services in the Third Sector, one for people experiencing mental health difficulties, such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, loss, grief, or trauma and one for people with physical ill-health conditions, including carers, families and friends. These experiences, plus life itself, have led me to this, my third career and vocation.
0131 381 3720 View 0131 381 3720
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See more therapy options for West End, Edinburgh

Female Counsellors

Does it matter what gender my therapist is?

In general, this is not an important factor, as there is no relationship between a therapist’s gender and their efficacy. Some clients, however, prefer to see therapists of a particular gender, whether due to their own past experiences with men and women, or ingrained beliefs about how people of different genders think and behave. Exploring the roots of such preferences and considering what one wants to address in therapy can help someone determine whether their therapist’s gender truly matters to them.

Should I see a female therapist?

Many people—not just women—prefer to see a female therapist, either because they believe that a woman will be able to relate to their specific challenges (for example, sexism in the workplace) or because they imagine feeling more comfortable disclosing sensitive information to a woman. Such beliefs may not turn out to be accurate, however, and adhering too rigidly to a gender preference can at times hinder a client from finding the best therapeutic match.

Do therapists get specific training to help with women’s concerns?

Therapists are trained to provide care to clients of any gender. However, some therapists—both men and women—may pursue additional training in feminist therapy, gender-specific issues, or women’s mental health. Female clients may wish to ask prospective therapists whether they have received specific training in the client’s primary area(s) of concern, or whether they have worked extensively with women on issues similar to their own.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience in treating women?

It’s OK—even encouraged!—to ask a therapist directly whether and how often they have treated women in the past, or whether they have treated women dealing with the client’s most prominent concern(s). Competent therapists will be happy to share their educational background, preferred treatment modalities, and prior client experience to help an individual find the therapist best suited to their needs.