Counselling in Ashford

Photo of Michelle Cage, Counsellor, MBACP
Michelle Cage
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Ashford TN26
I understand how daunting it can feel to take the first step. You may be feeling anxious, low, overwhelmed or alone with your thoughts and not quite sure of where to turn. I’m a fully qualified, BACP registered person-centred counsellor offering a warm, approachable and compassionate space to explore what matters to you. I work with a range of issues including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma and relationship issues whether romantic, family or professional. I’m also a certified psychosexual counsellor, enabling me to work comfortably and offer support with sexual issues or concerns in a respectful and safe environment.
I understand how daunting it can feel to take the first step. You may be feeling anxious, low, overwhelmed or alone with your thoughts and not quite sure of where to turn. I’m a fully qualified, BACP registered person-centred counsellor offering a warm, approachable and compassionate space to explore what matters to you. I work with a range of issues including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma and relationship issues whether romantic, family or professional. I’m also a certified psychosexual counsellor, enabling me to work comfortably and offer support with sexual issues or concerns in a respectful and safe environment.
01233 228668 View 01233 228668
Photo of Harriet Farmer, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Harriet Farmer
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Ashford TN24
I am an integrative therapist offering a supportive and comfortable environment in Ashford, Kent. Whether you’re seeking counselling, my approach is compassionate, professional, and highly personalized. An integrative therapist combines various theories to create a bespoke experience for each client’s unique needs, preferences and circumstances.
I am an integrative therapist offering a supportive and comfortable environment in Ashford, Kent. Whether you’re seeking counselling, my approach is compassionate, professional, and highly personalized. An integrative therapist combines various theories to create a bespoke experience for each client’s unique needs, preferences and circumstances.
01233 560462 View 01233 560462
Photo of Nassima Melakhessou, Counsellor, MBACP
Nassima Melakhessou
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Ashford TN23
There are understandable reasons why we struggle, feel overwhelmed, or experience loneliness. Sometimes, putting our inner experiences into words feels impossible. Other times, we have the words but no one we trust to truly hear them. I understand how difficult it can be to open up and believe that someone will understand. If this resonates with you, I invite you to see therapy as an adventure—one of self-discovery, healing, and growth. While embarking on this journey will take courage and perseverance, it will lead you down a rewarding path.
There are understandable reasons why we struggle, feel overwhelmed, or experience loneliness. Sometimes, putting our inner experiences into words feels impossible. Other times, we have the words but no one we trust to truly hear them. I understand how difficult it can be to open up and believe that someone will understand. If this resonates with you, I invite you to see therapy as an adventure—one of self-discovery, healing, and growth. While embarking on this journey will take courage and perseverance, it will lead you down a rewarding path.
01233 542529 View 01233 542529
Photo of Beth Lindsay West, Counsellor, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
Beth Lindsay West
Counsellor, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
Ashford TN23
I am a qualified CBT therapist. My approach is both adaptive and solution orientated and works best for people who want to change how they are feeling, thinking and behaving. I can help you manage distressing emotions by changing your unhealthy thought patterns and replacing any unhelpful, destructive and self-sabotaging behaviours you may have developed with healthy, helpful practices. My approach is to help you develop a deeper understanding of who you are and why you do the things you do. I will help you develop a sense of self-respect and recognise you are stronger than you think.
I am a qualified CBT therapist. My approach is both adaptive and solution orientated and works best for people who want to change how they are feeling, thinking and behaving. I can help you manage distressing emotions by changing your unhealthy thought patterns and replacing any unhelpful, destructive and self-sabotaging behaviours you may have developed with healthy, helpful practices. My approach is to help you develop a deeper understanding of who you are and why you do the things you do. I will help you develop a sense of self-respect and recognise you are stronger than you think.
01580 234650 View 01580 234650
Photo of Sujatha Iyer, Counsellor, MBACP
Sujatha Iyer
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Ashford TW15
I have come to counselling and psychotherapy as my second career after spending over 25 years in the corporate sector as part of the human resources function for global technology companies. My desire and ability to connect with people combined with a quest to find deeper meaning in my work led me to retrain and find my true vocation. I have navigated challenging life experiences and have grown and found peace through my own personal therapy. I’m versatile in my clinical approach, drawing from a rich theoretical foundation having trained as an Integrative Psychotherapist.
I have come to counselling and psychotherapy as my second career after spending over 25 years in the corporate sector as part of the human resources function for global technology companies. My desire and ability to connect with people combined with a quest to find deeper meaning in my work led me to retrain and find my true vocation. I have navigated challenging life experiences and have grown and found peace through my own personal therapy. I’m versatile in my clinical approach, drawing from a rich theoretical foundation having trained as an Integrative Psychotherapist.
01784 775786 View 01784 775786
Photo of Bridget Clare Blackford-Read - Bridget - BBR Therapy & Coaching, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Bridget - BBR Therapy & Coaching
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
2 Endorsed
Ashford TN25
Stressed, overwhelmed, anxious, exhausted? Have you lost sight of "you". Are you struggling with relationships? Change is possible.
Stressed, overwhelmed, anxious, exhausted? Have you lost sight of "you". Are you struggling with relationships? Change is possible.
01233 527545 View 01233 527545
Photo of Lucy Lapish, Counsellor, MA, BACP
Lucy Lapish
Counsellor, MA, BACP
2 Endorsed
Ashford TN24
Hi, I’m Lucy. I’m an integrative counsellor based in Kent, experienced in a variety of difficulties such as anxiety, PTSD, depression, childhood trauma and abuse. Seeking therapy can be daunting so the fact that you’re here is testament to your resilience and strength. If you’re willing to establish an initial connection then I will walk with you in this journey as we create a safe, professional and supportive environment in which you are at the centre.
Hi, I’m Lucy. I’m an integrative counsellor based in Kent, experienced in a variety of difficulties such as anxiety, PTSD, depression, childhood trauma and abuse. Seeking therapy can be daunting so the fact that you’re here is testament to your resilience and strength. If you’re willing to establish an initial connection then I will walk with you in this journey as we create a safe, professional and supportive environment in which you are at the centre.
01233 560472 View 01233 560472
Photo of Barbara Ann Akers - Ashford Relationship Therapy, Psychotherapist, COSRT General
Ashford Relationship Therapy
Psychotherapist, COSRT General
Ashford TN23
If you are an individual or part of a couple that have issues around your relationship, or sexual relationship then please do get in contact. Perhaps your relationship is currently in crisis and nothing has changed, or perhaps you want to seek some help now before it gets any worse. It isn't always easy to sort these matters out by yourself and Couples Therapy can help you get your relationship back on track. I also specialise in sexual issues and compulsive sexual behaviour, which can also negatively affect your relationship, and I can help you to identify what these issues are and work towards helping you change this.
If you are an individual or part of a couple that have issues around your relationship, or sexual relationship then please do get in contact. Perhaps your relationship is currently in crisis and nothing has changed, or perhaps you want to seek some help now before it gets any worse. It isn't always easy to sort these matters out by yourself and Couples Therapy can help you get your relationship back on track. I also specialise in sexual issues and compulsive sexual behaviour, which can also negatively affect your relationship, and I can help you to identify what these issues are and work towards helping you change this.
01233 800837 View 01233 800837
Photo of Lena Tatman - Breeze Counselling, Counsellor, BACP
Breeze Counselling
Counsellor, BACP
Ashford TN23
Phone appointments now available. Hello, I'm Lena and I want to help you feel better. I strive to see all new clients within 48 hours so please call - let's start to make you feel more like you. Trying to find the right counsellor for you can be a daunting prospect and seeking help is hard. We all experience challenging periods in life and I would like to help you find your way through. If you are finding it difficult to cope and you are looking for more peace in yourself, I am genuinely looking forward to helping you find the right answers for you. They are there, some times we just need help finding them.
Phone appointments now available. Hello, I'm Lena and I want to help you feel better. I strive to see all new clients within 48 hours so please call - let's start to make you feel more like you. Trying to find the right counsellor for you can be a daunting prospect and seeking help is hard. We all experience challenging periods in life and I would like to help you find your way through. If you are finding it difficult to cope and you are looking for more peace in yourself, I am genuinely looking forward to helping you find the right answers for you. They are there, some times we just need help finding them.
01233 225088 View 01233 225088
Photo of Jamie Hardy - J L Hardy Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
J L Hardy Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Ashford TN23
I want to offer you a safe and supportive space. I know what it is like not to be understood or to have feelings and thoughts that are too difficult to voice. I will help you to explore your true feelings and together we will find choices specific to you that lead to positive change. If you are dealing with an overwhelming situation, feeling stuck or battling negative emotions, we can work together to help you find a way forward. You will find yourself having the space and quiet to slow things down and I will be alongside you supporting you.
I want to offer you a safe and supportive space. I know what it is like not to be understood or to have feelings and thoughts that are too difficult to voice. I will help you to explore your true feelings and together we will find choices specific to you that lead to positive change. If you are dealing with an overwhelming situation, feeling stuck or battling negative emotions, we can work together to help you find a way forward. You will find yourself having the space and quiet to slow things down and I will be alongside you supporting you.
01233 542783 View 01233 542783
Photo of Emma Faulkner, Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Emma Faulkner
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Ashford TN24
We all experience times in life when it may be helpful to speak with someone objective. You may be processing a loss, a change in your life, navigating relationship issues, healing from the past, experiencing anxiety, low mood or identity issues. Or you may have found yourself at a juncture or crossroads, and be ready to explore the big questions in life. Whatever brings you to therapy, being able to share your feelings and experiences in a safe space - free of judgement, can be a transformational, and deeply healing process.
We all experience times in life when it may be helpful to speak with someone objective. You may be processing a loss, a change in your life, navigating relationship issues, healing from the past, experiencing anxiety, low mood or identity issues. Or you may have found yourself at a juncture or crossroads, and be ready to explore the big questions in life. Whatever brings you to therapy, being able to share your feelings and experiences in a safe space - free of judgement, can be a transformational, and deeply healing process.
01233 560930 View 01233 560930
Photo of Julia Louise Hope, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Julia Louise Hope
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Ashford TN23
Whatever brings you to my profile today, I see you... I know how challenging it is to find a counsellor that gets it, and the anxiety this provokes in you to reach out. You do not have to walk this path alone. I know you feel all churned up inside, and are fed up with feeling nauseous and just unwell all the time. You may or may not understand why, but you have no energy anymore and feel numb. Perhaps you have nightmares and flashbacks and feel so so tired. You don't have to continue like this. You do not have to walk this path alone.
Whatever brings you to my profile today, I see you... I know how challenging it is to find a counsellor that gets it, and the anxiety this provokes in you to reach out. You do not have to walk this path alone. I know you feel all churned up inside, and are fed up with feeling nauseous and just unwell all the time. You may or may not understand why, but you have no energy anymore and feel numb. Perhaps you have nightmares and flashbacks and feel so so tired. You don't have to continue like this. You do not have to walk this path alone.
01233 560546 View 01233 560546
Photo of Georgia Stirling Lord, Psychotherapist, MA, BPC
Georgia Stirling Lord
Psychotherapist, MA, BPC
Ashford TN25
Sometimes life can be tough and worries can become too much for children, young people and the adults in their lives. A specialist child and adolescent trained psychotherapist can listen carefully and think together with each person to help make sense of the difficulties. Research suggests that psychotherapy has longer term effects and that even when you finish you will have a memory of your therapy and your therapist which does not go away. Psychotherapy is not just about clearing up symptoms but is concerned with overall long term development for all.
Sometimes life can be tough and worries can become too much for children, young people and the adults in their lives. A specialist child and adolescent trained psychotherapist can listen carefully and think together with each person to help make sense of the difficulties. Research suggests that psychotherapy has longer term effects and that even when you finish you will have a memory of your therapy and your therapist which does not go away. Psychotherapy is not just about clearing up symptoms but is concerned with overall long term development for all.
01303 762577 View 01303 762577
Photo of Tracy-Jane Middleton - Quarry Barn Counselling, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Quarry Barn Counselling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Ashford TN27
Are you feeling anxious, stressed or overwhelmed with the challenges of life, experiencing trauma or other difficulties? Are you finding it difficult to understand and/or communicate how you feel? Struggling with your relationships and/or your own identity? Life getting on top of you? Let’s explore this together …. I look to offer a safe, confidential and judgement free environment for you to talk and be heard.
Are you feeling anxious, stressed or overwhelmed with the challenges of life, experiencing trauma or other difficulties? Are you finding it difficult to understand and/or communicate how you feel? Struggling with your relationships and/or your own identity? Life getting on top of you? Let’s explore this together …. I look to offer a safe, confidential and judgement free environment for you to talk and be heard.
01622 938411 View 01622 938411
Photo of Emma Higgins, Counsellor, MBACP
Emma Higgins
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Ashford TN24
Taking the first step into counselling can often feel daunting as you navigate the unknown. I believe that establishing an initial connection is the most important step in this journey. For meaningful work to begin, it’s essential that we create a supportive foundation together. I offer a safe and professional environment that encourages curiosity and fosters self-discovery. I will walk alongside you in a non-judgmental and honest manner as we explore the deeper meanings of life together. While I won’t provide direct advice, I will offer encouragement and support as you navigate your unique path of growth.
Taking the first step into counselling can often feel daunting as you navigate the unknown. I believe that establishing an initial connection is the most important step in this journey. For meaningful work to begin, it’s essential that we create a supportive foundation together. I offer a safe and professional environment that encourages curiosity and fosters self-discovery. I will walk alongside you in a non-judgmental and honest manner as we explore the deeper meanings of life together. While I won’t provide direct advice, I will offer encouragement and support as you navigate your unique path of growth.
01233 560245 View 01233 560245
Photo of Jacqueline Jones, Counsellor, MBACP
Jacqueline Jones
Counsellor, MBACP
Ashford TN25
My name is Jacqueline and I qualified as a counsellor in 2008. I have since worked with a wide variety of issues such as bereavement, anxiety, low self worth, lack of confidence, addiction, relational issues such as couples, autism, understanding self concept, shyness and much more. I believe that the professional working relationship between the counsellor and client is of fundamental importance as it provides opportunities in which change can occur. For that reason I provide a free assessment of your needs. Also meeting myself prior to engaging in any counseling will help you to decide if I would be the right counsellor for you.
My name is Jacqueline and I qualified as a counsellor in 2008. I have since worked with a wide variety of issues such as bereavement, anxiety, low self worth, lack of confidence, addiction, relational issues such as couples, autism, understanding self concept, shyness and much more. I believe that the professional working relationship between the counsellor and client is of fundamental importance as it provides opportunities in which change can occur. For that reason I provide a free assessment of your needs. Also meeting myself prior to engaging in any counseling will help you to decide if I would be the right counsellor for you.
01233 225874 View 01233 225874
Photo of Jules Ward, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Jules Ward
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
1 Endorsed
Ashford TN23
I believe the secret to successful therapy is the therapeutic relationship, so I suggest you contact a few therapist and see if you 'click'. A lot of my clients come to me with anxiety, depression or relationship issues, many have terminal illnesses, trauma or identity issues, so I use an integrated approach that allows a flexible treatment that is tailored specifically to their needs. I offer a full range of talking therapies, while I specialise in more creative modalities, as sometimes words are just not enough and it's more about feeling safe with someone you trust as you work through your difficulties.
I believe the secret to successful therapy is the therapeutic relationship, so I suggest you contact a few therapist and see if you 'click'. A lot of my clients come to me with anxiety, depression or relationship issues, many have terminal illnesses, trauma or identity issues, so I use an integrated approach that allows a flexible treatment that is tailored specifically to their needs. I offer a full range of talking therapies, while I specialise in more creative modalities, as sometimes words are just not enough and it's more about feeling safe with someone you trust as you work through your difficulties.
01784 918971 View 01784 918971
Photo of Faye Millner - Autism Assessment Centre, Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Autism Assessment Centre
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Ashford TN25
The Autism Assessment Centre is run by a small, friendly and compassionate team. As the mother of a neurodivergent child, our lead clinician Dr Faye Millner, draws from her personal journey and intimately understands the emotions and challenges families face during the assessment and diagnostic process. This insight has strongly influenced her professional practice. Our commitment is to provide a service that prioritises transparency and emotional support right from the outset. This approach not only eases the journey for all involved but also lays the foundation for a comprehensive and accurate diagnostic report.
The Autism Assessment Centre is run by a small, friendly and compassionate team. As the mother of a neurodivergent child, our lead clinician Dr Faye Millner, draws from her personal journey and intimately understands the emotions and challenges families face during the assessment and diagnostic process. This insight has strongly influenced her professional practice. Our commitment is to provide a service that prioritises transparency and emotional support right from the outset. This approach not only eases the journey for all involved but also lays the foundation for a comprehensive and accurate diagnostic report.
01303 763859 View 01303 763859
Photo of Neil Bedwell, Counsellor, MBACP
Neil Bedwell
Counsellor, MBACP
Ashford TN23
I am an experienced counsellor who can give you the time & space you need to work out what who you would like to be. I will be with you every step of the way, offering you compassion, empathy & warm to support you in getting to where you want to be. Often we have ways of coping with emotional distress that come from what happened in our childhood, and those ways of coping no longer serve us as adults. You might be struggling with anxiety or depression, which can affect your confidence and self-esteem. It might not seem like it at the moment, but things can get better.
I am an experienced counsellor who can give you the time & space you need to work out what who you would like to be. I will be with you every step of the way, offering you compassion, empathy & warm to support you in getting to where you want to be. Often we have ways of coping with emotional distress that come from what happened in our childhood, and those ways of coping no longer serve us as adults. You might be struggling with anxiety or depression, which can affect your confidence and self-esteem. It might not seem like it at the moment, but things can get better.
01233 542734 View 01233 542734
Photo of Mathew Roderick, Counsellor, BACP
Mathew Roderick
Counsellor, BACP
Online Only
If you feel you want to change your life but aren't sure where to start, I can help. I've dedicated my life to helping others. As a counsellor I use my skills to help you improve your well-being and optimise your mental health. I will create an environment where you feel safe and encouraged to be the best version of yourself. So much so that I can also use my skills as a personal trainer to help you improve your physical health if you wish.
If you feel you want to change your life but aren't sure where to start, I can help. I've dedicated my life to helping others. As a counsellor I use my skills to help you improve your well-being and optimise your mental health. I will create an environment where you feel safe and encouraged to be the best version of yourself. So much so that I can also use my skills as a personal trainer to help you improve your physical health if you wish.
01233 542875 View 01233 542875

How does your Counsellor compare?

Number of Counsellors in Ashford

90+

Average cost per session

£60

Counsellors in Ashford who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
89% Depression
89% Self Esteem
78% Stress
77% Relationship Issues
66% Bereavement
64% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

47% Aviva
47% AXA PPP
47% Bupa

How Counsellors in Ashford see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling

How can I find a therapist in Ashford?

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

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.

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.

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.