Counselling in Bournemouth

Are you feeling stressed, anxious or depressed? Are you suffering from alcohol or substance misuse issues? Whatever you are struggling with, I would love to help. I have an open, honest and non judgemental approach to my practise and provide a safe environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings by focusing on the 'here and now.' I offer a free consultation where we discuss your needs and the best approach to help you lead a happier life. This is a key part of the process. I believe that with the right support, everyone can make a positive change to their lives.
Are you feeling stressed, anxious or depressed? Are you suffering from alcohol or substance misuse issues? Whatever you are struggling with, I would love to help. I have an open, honest and non judgemental approach to my practise and provide a safe environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings by focusing on the 'here and now.' I offer a free consultation where we discuss your needs and the best approach to help you lead a happier life. This is a key part of the process. I believe that with the right support, everyone can make a positive change to their lives.

Alison Woodward
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Bournemouth BH9
Waitlist for new clients
Thinking about accessing counselling is the first step to access support. Seeking help can be daunting, I hope the information below will help you make an informed choice about what type of support will be useful for you. I aim to work with you to explore what you are finding difficult at the moment and to support you to develop strategies that will improve your psychological wellbeing. I have extensive experience working with a wide range of clients both in private practice and for organisations specialising in trauma recovery.
Thinking about accessing counselling is the first step to access support. Seeking help can be daunting, I hope the information below will help you make an informed choice about what type of support will be useful for you. I aim to work with you to explore what you are finding difficult at the moment and to support you to develop strategies that will improve your psychological wellbeing. I have extensive experience working with a wide range of clients both in private practice and for organisations specialising in trauma recovery.

Monika Burzykowska
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bournemouth BH2
Follow me therapy provides creative psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults. The creative approach allows for the freedom of expression and safety in the therapeutic relationship. It engages the mind, cognitive understanding of the world, emotions and the body. There is a possibility for a face to face and on-line set of sessions.
Follow me therapy provides creative psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults. The creative approach allows for the freedom of expression and safety in the therapeutic relationship. It engages the mind, cognitive understanding of the world, emotions and the body. There is a possibility for a face to face and on-line set of sessions.

I strongly believe that in order to provide the best possible psychological help there is a need to build tailored, high-quality programmes for each and every client. I offer a bespoke approach with a strong focus on discretion, privacy and confidentiality.
I strongly believe that in order to provide the best possible psychological help there is a need to build tailored, high-quality programmes for each and every client. I offer a bespoke approach with a strong focus on discretion, privacy and confidentiality.

I have a special interest of helping adults who have unhelpful coping strategies that keep them stuck, such as eating too much or too little; drinking too much; withdrawing into themselves; &/or working harder to activate perfectionist & self-destructive behaviours. Perhaps you're questioning who you are as you struggle with such feelings & question if you'll ever feel better? Perhaps you struggle to find the right words to talk about how you're feeling & shut down if others ask how you are? You don't know where else to turn, struggle on & feel afraid of what may happen if you're not okay. You are exhausted & want things to change.
I have a special interest of helping adults who have unhelpful coping strategies that keep them stuck, such as eating too much or too little; drinking too much; withdrawing into themselves; &/or working harder to activate perfectionist & self-destructive behaviours. Perhaps you're questioning who you are as you struggle with such feelings & question if you'll ever feel better? Perhaps you struggle to find the right words to talk about how you're feeling & shut down if others ask how you are? You don't know where else to turn, struggle on & feel afraid of what may happen if you're not okay. You are exhausted & want things to change.

Hello, I'm Abi. I am not going to guess why you are considering counselling. Everyone's reasons for seeking support are varied and unique to them. You are looking here, and that is the first step to trying it out. Counselling needs to be experienced to see if it works for you. We can work together to safely unravel any difficulties, challenges, or confusions to help you gain a better understanding of yourself, your values and priorities. I believe that enhancing your self-compassion and knowing yourself better can be the gateway to a more fulfilling and content life. Counselling with me can give you an opportunity to do that.
Hello, I'm Abi. I am not going to guess why you are considering counselling. Everyone's reasons for seeking support are varied and unique to them. You are looking here, and that is the first step to trying it out. Counselling needs to be experienced to see if it works for you. We can work together to safely unravel any difficulties, challenges, or confusions to help you gain a better understanding of yourself, your values and priorities. I believe that enhancing your self-compassion and knowing yourself better can be the gateway to a more fulfilling and content life. Counselling with me can give you an opportunity to do that.

Do you ever feel like you’re stuck, numb, disconnected, overwhelmed by your emotions, thoughts, anxiety, stress? Whether you're facing ongoing struggles or a recent challenge, I’m here to support you in navigating these difficulties. It’s completely normal to feel lost or unsure of how to move forward, but therapy can help you find your way. Together, we’ll focus on what truly matters to you. I will help you feel more in control, build stronger relationships, and ultimately find peace and direction in your life. Therapy isn’t just for times of crisis-everyone deserves a safe, non-judgmental space to be heard, accepted,and supported.
Do you ever feel like you’re stuck, numb, disconnected, overwhelmed by your emotions, thoughts, anxiety, stress? Whether you're facing ongoing struggles or a recent challenge, I’m here to support you in navigating these difficulties. It’s completely normal to feel lost or unsure of how to move forward, but therapy can help you find your way. Together, we’ll focus on what truly matters to you. I will help you feel more in control, build stronger relationships, and ultimately find peace and direction in your life. Therapy isn’t just for times of crisis-everyone deserves a safe, non-judgmental space to be heard, accepted,and supported.

Richard Dolan MNCPS | Check Your Head Counselling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Bournemouth BH2
Do you want to feel better? Are you in need of help with your mental health? Struggling with negative thoughts and unhealthy behaviours? Stuck in a cycle of procrastination and short-term gratification, over long-term domination of your emotions?
My name Is Richard Dolan and I've helped hundreds of people over thousands of hours, to overcome challenges, build resilience, resolve trauma, and lead happier, healthier lives. I work with anyone brave enough to ask for help, but specialise in men's mental health, relationship issues, divorce trauma, anger management, and neurodiversity.
Do you want to feel better? Are you in need of help with your mental health? Struggling with negative thoughts and unhealthy behaviours? Stuck in a cycle of procrastination and short-term gratification, over long-term domination of your emotions?
My name Is Richard Dolan and I've helped hundreds of people over thousands of hours, to overcome challenges, build resilience, resolve trauma, and lead happier, healthier lives. I work with anyone brave enough to ask for help, but specialise in men's mental health, relationship issues, divorce trauma, anger management, and neurodiversity.
I offer a warm, confidential space for you to explore issues that may be making life more of a struggle than it needs to be. Painful memories or experiences, stress and anxiety, relationship difficulties etcetera can be discussed and eased... or you may simply wish to explore your feelings about yourself in a reflective and non-critical way. I believe that therapy is for everyone, not just those that “need help” — through self-exploration with a trained counsellor you can find new levels of self-acceptance and “peace within your own skin
I offer a warm, confidential space for you to explore issues that may be making life more of a struggle than it needs to be. Painful memories or experiences, stress and anxiety, relationship difficulties etcetera can be discussed and eased... or you may simply wish to explore your feelings about yourself in a reflective and non-critical way. I believe that therapy is for everyone, not just those that “need help” — through self-exploration with a trained counsellor you can find new levels of self-acceptance and “peace within your own skin

Do you struggle with painful, destructive, abusive or addictive relationships? Perhaps you often ask yourself 'why are relationships so hard?' 'Why do I keep falling for emotionally unavailable people?' ‘Why do my emotions and my body feel so out of control?’ 'Why can't I say no, even though I'm exhausted and burnt out?' If so, you may be experiencing relational trauma. These patterns can leave you reeling with confusion and self doubt. They take a toll on your body, your mind and your work. But there is a solution.
Do you struggle with painful, destructive, abusive or addictive relationships? Perhaps you often ask yourself 'why are relationships so hard?' 'Why do I keep falling for emotionally unavailable people?' ‘Why do my emotions and my body feel so out of control?’ 'Why can't I say no, even though I'm exhausted and burnt out?' If so, you may be experiencing relational trauma. These patterns can leave you reeling with confusion and self doubt. They take a toll on your body, your mind and your work. But there is a solution.

I am an accredited integrative counsellor/psychotherapist. I am passionate about facilitating the healing process in counselling. I am trained in a variety of different counselling theories and aim to provide a safe, non-judgemental and confidential relationship, by walking alongside you, facilitating healing and enabling you to reach your goals. Counselling provides support and professional help by talking about the problems you are experiencing in life. I currently see clients online and face to face on Wednesday afternoons. Do feel free to contact me for a free initial online introduction or phone call.
I am an accredited integrative counsellor/psychotherapist. I am passionate about facilitating the healing process in counselling. I am trained in a variety of different counselling theories and aim to provide a safe, non-judgemental and confidential relationship, by walking alongside you, facilitating healing and enabling you to reach your goals. Counselling provides support and professional help by talking about the problems you are experiencing in life. I currently see clients online and face to face on Wednesday afternoons. Do feel free to contact me for a free initial online introduction or phone call.
Meet Our Counsellors

Hello my name is Whitney and I am a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. As we work together, I will support you in understanding and overcoming psychological difficulties. I provide therapy that is compassionate and non-judgmental. Our work together will be tailored to your needs and availability. I know that it can be really hard to reach out for support and know where to start. Therefore, I am passionate about making sure people receive the right support. If we meet, and I am not the right person to support for you, I will do my best to advise you on how to access NHS mental health services or other organisations.
Hello my name is Whitney and I am a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. As we work together, I will support you in understanding and overcoming psychological difficulties. I provide therapy that is compassionate and non-judgmental. Our work together will be tailored to your needs and availability. I know that it can be really hard to reach out for support and know where to start. Therefore, I am passionate about making sure people receive the right support. If we meet, and I am not the right person to support for you, I will do my best to advise you on how to access NHS mental health services or other organisations.

Hi, I am an experienced and insightful Counselling Psychologist. I offer you an emphatic space where you are listened to deeply. You will have the opportunity to explore, reflect, express and understand yourself alongside my professional support. I provide you with the compassion, skills and knowledge you may need to relieve uncomfortable feelings and resolve psychological issues and/or traumas. This process allows you to gain insight about yourself, increase self-acceptance, feel more in control of your responses to life, learn new ways of coping and move forward with greater peace.
Hi, I am an experienced and insightful Counselling Psychologist. I offer you an emphatic space where you are listened to deeply. You will have the opportunity to explore, reflect, express and understand yourself alongside my professional support. I provide you with the compassion, skills and knowledge you may need to relieve uncomfortable feelings and resolve psychological issues and/or traumas. This process allows you to gain insight about yourself, increase self-acceptance, feel more in control of your responses to life, learn new ways of coping and move forward with greater peace.

Donna has been practicing as a counsellor for 25 years & is able to work with most issues that the client will present . She has managed two counselling practices 1-1 counselling & one Stop Counselling Services. She aims to cover any area as she works remotely via zoom, telephone & WhatsApp. She has worked in various settings such as rehabs for addicts , woman's refuge & family centres. You will find Donna warm , friendly , approachable & professional. She is able to work in a way which best suits your needs so text , email or call today . Donna offers an informal chat to see if we are suited if not she is happy to signpost.
Donna has been practicing as a counsellor for 25 years & is able to work with most issues that the client will present . She has managed two counselling practices 1-1 counselling & one Stop Counselling Services. She aims to cover any area as she works remotely via zoom, telephone & WhatsApp. She has worked in various settings such as rehabs for addicts , woman's refuge & family centres. You will find Donna warm , friendly , approachable & professional. She is able to work in a way which best suits your needs so text , email or call today . Donna offers an informal chat to see if we are suited if not she is happy to signpost.

We can all find ourselves at a point in our lives where things feel difficult. Sometimes our problems can grow so that we cannot see a way past them. I can offer you a safe and accepting space, free of judgment, to explore the things you are finding hard. Together, we can work to identify things you may want to change, or I can support you to work towards acceptance of things you may not be able to change. By supporting you in this way to explore your challenges and difficulties I can help you work towards a deeper understanding, a feeling of self-acceptance and a sense of empowerment in your life.
We can all find ourselves at a point in our lives where things feel difficult. Sometimes our problems can grow so that we cannot see a way past them. I can offer you a safe and accepting space, free of judgment, to explore the things you are finding hard. Together, we can work to identify things you may want to change, or I can support you to work towards acceptance of things you may not be able to change. By supporting you in this way to explore your challenges and difficulties I can help you work towards a deeper understanding, a feeling of self-acceptance and a sense of empowerment in your life.

Hello, I'm Claire. I am an experienced counsellor, working on-line and face to face from my therapy rooms in Southbourne. There are many different reasons why you may be looking for change in your life. For example, you may be suffering from day-to-day anxiety, or perhaps you have experienced traumatic life events leading to depression, addictive behaviours or problems in your relationships. You may not even be sure why you feel this way. At times like these it can help to talk to a professional who can work alongside you to help you achieve understanding and clarity, enabling you to make the changes you want in your life.
Hello, I'm Claire. I am an experienced counsellor, working on-line and face to face from my therapy rooms in Southbourne. There are many different reasons why you may be looking for change in your life. For example, you may be suffering from day-to-day anxiety, or perhaps you have experienced traumatic life events leading to depression, addictive behaviours or problems in your relationships. You may not even be sure why you feel this way. At times like these it can help to talk to a professional who can work alongside you to help you achieve understanding and clarity, enabling you to make the changes you want in your life.

Are you telling people you are 'fine' even though you know you are not? Maybe you are going through a bereavement, a life transition, a difficult period of your life and need some emotional support? Maybe you have already experienced difficulties in your life and are struggling with the way you feel on the other side of it. Perhaps you are struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem or depression?
Are you telling people you are 'fine' even though you know you are not? Maybe you are going through a bereavement, a life transition, a difficult period of your life and need some emotional support? Maybe you have already experienced difficulties in your life and are struggling with the way you feel on the other side of it. Perhaps you are struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem or depression?

Hello, all clients are welcome and I will offer a safe, friendly, confidential environment for you to feel listened to and understood while we explore difficult issues. Whether it is anxiety, depression, loneliness, PTSD, grief, trauma, relationship problems and more i will be there to help you gain insight while you heal and grow. I am very flexible and I can offer day and evening sessions. I offer face to face in my summer house, zoom/teams or over the phone which ever suits.
Hello, all clients are welcome and I will offer a safe, friendly, confidential environment for you to feel listened to and understood while we explore difficult issues. Whether it is anxiety, depression, loneliness, PTSD, grief, trauma, relationship problems and more i will be there to help you gain insight while you heal and grow. I am very flexible and I can offer day and evening sessions. I offer face to face in my summer house, zoom/teams or over the phone which ever suits.

There can be times in life, where we may need help to weather emotional difficulties we encounter, to gain clarity and understanding. This may be through loss (bereavement or loss of a relationship, job or life changes), stress (anxiety, depression) and relationship problems (including how we feel about ourselves). There can be many reasons why you may be seeking help and it's a brave step to acknowledge and address this, by taking the first step in looking for support.
There can be times in life, where we may need help to weather emotional difficulties we encounter, to gain clarity and understanding. This may be through loss (bereavement or loss of a relationship, job or life changes), stress (anxiety, depression) and relationship problems (including how we feel about ourselves). There can be many reasons why you may be seeking help and it's a brave step to acknowledge and address this, by taking the first step in looking for support.

Seeking support can be daunting -but you have taken the courageous first step! Working with adults & young people aged 11+, I offer an opportunity for you to explore your relationship with yourself, with others & with the wider world, drawing on your own internal strengths & resources to build your self-awareness & self-acceptance to help you make sense of things & feel more clarity. Stepping away from a focus on diagnoses & labels, working together acknowledging you as an individual we can explore the impact that your own unique set of challenges & experiences has had on your ability to engage with & enjoy the world around you.
Seeking support can be daunting -but you have taken the courageous first step! Working with adults & young people aged 11+, I offer an opportunity for you to explore your relationship with yourself, with others & with the wider world, drawing on your own internal strengths & resources to build your self-awareness & self-acceptance to help you make sense of things & feel more clarity. Stepping away from a focus on diagnoses & labels, working together acknowledging you as an individual we can explore the impact that your own unique set of challenges & experiences has had on your ability to engage with & enjoy the world around you.
See more therapy options for Bournemouth
Nearby Searches for Bournemouth
- Broadstone
- Christchurch
- Corfe Mullen
- Ferndown
- Highcliffe
- Poole
- Ringwood
- Ripley
- Saint Ives
- Swanage
- Wimborne
- Wimborne Minster
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Bournemouth
100+
Average cost per session
£60
Counsellors in Bournemouth who prioritize treating:
89% | Anxiety |
87% | Depression |
84% | Self Esteem |
80% | Stress |
75% | Relationship Issues |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
65% | Bereavement |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
74% | Aviva |
66% | AXA PPP |
63% | Vitality |
How Counsellors in Bournemouth see their clients
86% | In Person and Online | |
14% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
81% | Female | |
19% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Bournemouth?
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.