Counselling in Gillingham

Photo of Shirley Wadd, Counsellor, MBACP
Shirley Wadd
Counsellor, MBACP
“I’m not sure my issue is big enough for counselling” — I often hear this in the therapy room. The truth is, if it’s affecting you, it matters. I’m a qualified counsellor with NHS and private practice experience, dedicated to listening and supporting you. You might be feeling low, anxious, overwhelmed, angry or stuck. Maybe you’re struggling with life changes, grief, self-esteem or relationship challenges. Whatever you’re facing, your concerns are valid. I understand how powerful the right support at the right time can be; it can bring clarity, insight, and a way forward that feels right for you.
“I’m not sure my issue is big enough for counselling” — I often hear this in the therapy room. The truth is, if it’s affecting you, it matters. I’m a qualified counsellor with NHS and private practice experience, dedicated to listening and supporting you. You might be feeling low, anxious, overwhelmed, angry or stuck. Maybe you’re struggling with life changes, grief, self-esteem or relationship challenges. Whatever you’re facing, your concerns are valid. I understand how powerful the right support at the right time can be; it can bring clarity, insight, and a way forward that feels right for you.
01747 441427 View 01747 441427
Photo of Charis Doggett, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Charis Doggett
Psychotherapist, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Whether you are struggling with mental health, wanting to process your story or need support making some changes, I offer a space to explore your story and what has made you who you are today. Together, we sit compassionately with whatever pain, struggle or issue is brought, bringing awareness to how things are and what lies behind it. I see a range of clients from all walks of life, ethnicities, and beliefs. As a Christian, I understand wanting a therapist who appreciates faith as an important aspect of your life. I specialise in incorporating what this means to you and how you would like to include it in our work together.
Whether you are struggling with mental health, wanting to process your story or need support making some changes, I offer a space to explore your story and what has made you who you are today. Together, we sit compassionately with whatever pain, struggle or issue is brought, bringing awareness to how things are and what lies behind it. I see a range of clients from all walks of life, ethnicities, and beliefs. As a Christian, I understand wanting a therapist who appreciates faith as an important aspect of your life. I specialise in incorporating what this means to you and how you would like to include it in our work together.
01747 449980 View 01747 449980
Photo of Dr Esthefanea F. Santos, Psychotherapist, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
Dr Esthefanea F. Santos
Psychotherapist, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
2 Endorsed
Welcome, I'm so glad you're here. I offer a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental space where you can talk openly about what’s going on in your life. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply in need of someone to truly listen, we’ll work together to explore your challenges and help you move forward, at your pace and in a way that feels right for you. I tailor my approach to meet your unique needs and goals, creating a safe and inclusive environment for adults from all walks of life (18+). My work is grounded in genuine compassion, empathy, and a deep respect for each person’s individual story.
Welcome, I'm so glad you're here. I offer a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental space where you can talk openly about what’s going on in your life. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply in need of someone to truly listen, we’ll work together to explore your challenges and help you move forward, at your pace and in a way that feels right for you. I tailor my approach to meet your unique needs and goals, creating a safe and inclusive environment for adults from all walks of life (18+). My work is grounded in genuine compassion, empathy, and a deep respect for each person’s individual story.
01747 441447 View 01747 441447
Photo of Dean Watkins, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Dean Watkins
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Do you struggle with self-doubt and anxiety, feel like a fraud or impostor, worry that you're going to be "found out", and despite your successes and achievements you still feel the same. You may find yourself working harder and longer to try and appease the self-doubt, you may avoid opportunities due to the fear of failure, and can struggle with procrastination. Do you find yourself being self-critical, putting yourself under a lot of pressure to achieve, comparing yourself negatively to others, and overthinking. Do you want to break free from the impact of Impostor Syndrome, building confidence in yourself and living life fully?
Do you struggle with self-doubt and anxiety, feel like a fraud or impostor, worry that you're going to be "found out", and despite your successes and achievements you still feel the same. You may find yourself working harder and longer to try and appease the self-doubt, you may avoid opportunities due to the fear of failure, and can struggle with procrastination. Do you find yourself being self-critical, putting yourself under a lot of pressure to achieve, comparing yourself negatively to others, and overthinking. Do you want to break free from the impact of Impostor Syndrome, building confidence in yourself and living life fully?
01634 980433 View 01634 980433
Photo of Cindy Smith, Counsellor, MBACP
Cindy Smith
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Not accepting new clients
I am an experienced, humanistic, relational counsellor . I trained and work integratively. This means I use several different models of counselling intertwined, leaning more to one than the others as required by the individual. These include Person Centred, CBT, Psychodynamic and Existential . Post qualifying, I have trained extensively in working with trauma. I believe the quality of the relationship between client and counsellor is very important. I see my clients in private, quiet and comfortable rooms in Gillingham town centre with public car parks available nearby and easy access to public transport link.
I am an experienced, humanistic, relational counsellor . I trained and work integratively. This means I use several different models of counselling intertwined, leaning more to one than the others as required by the individual. These include Person Centred, CBT, Psychodynamic and Existential . Post qualifying, I have trained extensively in working with trauma. I believe the quality of the relationship between client and counsellor is very important. I see my clients in private, quiet and comfortable rooms in Gillingham town centre with public car parks available nearby and easy access to public transport link.
01634 968286 View 01634 968286
Photo of Oleg Elizarov, Counsellor, MBACP
Oleg Elizarov
Counsellor, MBACP
I offer non judgmental and confidential counselling to Men and Women from all walks of life and from many differing circumstances. I understand that it is important that you feel comfortable with the counsellor you have chosen and be able to build a therapeutic relationship.
I offer non judgmental and confidential counselling to Men and Women from all walks of life and from many differing circumstances. I understand that it is important that you feel comfortable with the counsellor you have chosen and be able to build a therapeutic relationship.
01634 561135 View 01634 561135
Photo of Caroline Sharp, Counsellor, MBACP
Caroline Sharp
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Caroline has an intuitive and inquisitive nature. She is a well established and highly respected Holistic Therapist and Integrative Therapeutic Counsellor working with adults, children and young people. With a background spanning over 25 years providing holistic Integrative Therapies I have supported individuals dealing with a diverse range of issues; from common concerns like anxiety and relationship issues to more intricate and traumatic experiences.
Caroline has an intuitive and inquisitive nature. She is a well established and highly respected Holistic Therapist and Integrative Therapeutic Counsellor working with adults, children and young people. With a background spanning over 25 years providing holistic Integrative Therapies I have supported individuals dealing with a diverse range of issues; from common concerns like anxiety and relationship issues to more intricate and traumatic experiences.
01747 441161 View 01747 441161
Photo of Alex Ritchie - Healing Routes, Counsellor, MBACP
Healing Routes
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
I work with anyone over the age of 18 and have experience working with the following: Childhood ACES, Anxiety, Suicidal Ideation, Depression, Work Pressures, Family Issues, Self-worth and confidence.
I work with anyone over the age of 18 and have experience working with the following: Childhood ACES, Anxiety, Suicidal Ideation, Depression, Work Pressures, Family Issues, Self-worth and confidence.
01634 980352 View 01634 980352
Photo of Amanda Tooms - Amanda Tooms Therapy and Wellbeing , Counsellor, MA, PNCPS Acc.
Amanda Tooms Therapy and Wellbeing
Counsellor, MA, PNCPS Acc.
Are you struggling with past or present trauma, feelings of overwhelm/issues that you're struggling to overcome? Do you feel that you don't know which way to turn or where to start? I hear you, and I see you! I am a trauma informed counsellor and psychotherapist, hypnotherapist and mentor. I have been in therapy myself and I know first-hand the feeling of darkness, pain and trauma, but I also know what it's like to feel light again. That is why I trained as a therapist myself, so that I could support individuals in the same way that my therapist supported me when I needed it most. You are not alone, and I am here for you!
Are you struggling with past or present trauma, feelings of overwhelm/issues that you're struggling to overcome? Do you feel that you don't know which way to turn or where to start? I hear you, and I see you! I am a trauma informed counsellor and psychotherapist, hypnotherapist and mentor. I have been in therapy myself and I know first-hand the feeling of darkness, pain and trauma, but I also know what it's like to feel light again. That is why I trained as a therapist myself, so that I could support individuals in the same way that my therapist supported me when I needed it most. You are not alone, and I am here for you!
01747 441435 View 01747 441435
Photo of Mark Howden Paine, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Mark Howden Paine
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
I am a very experienced integrated therapist for both mental and physical issues. I work with both individuals and couples, offering help with the stresses of everyday life such as Anxiety, Anger and Depression as well as marriage guidance and a range of relationship problems. I can help with ongoing chronic issues such as addiction, abuse, past and present traumas and other concerns. I aim to tailor the style of therapy to suit your needs and encourage an initial session to assess how best to work with you.
I am a very experienced integrated therapist for both mental and physical issues. I work with both individuals and couples, offering help with the stresses of everyday life such as Anxiety, Anger and Depression as well as marriage guidance and a range of relationship problems. I can help with ongoing chronic issues such as addiction, abuse, past and present traumas and other concerns. I aim to tailor the style of therapy to suit your needs and encourage an initial session to assess how best to work with you.
01634 949990 View 01634 949990
Photo of Janet Wells, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Janet Wells
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Hello, my name is Janet, I am a BACP registered psychotherapist based in Medway. I offer face to face counselling in Gillingham and also Walking Talking therapy, Zoom, Facetime or telephone. I offer a confidential and safe environment in which you can explore and process the difficulties you are facing. This will be a non-judgemental space where we can discuss as much or as little as you would like, you lead the way. I aim to create an environment where you feel calm and cared for, as well as being able to trust in me with your thoughts and concerns no matter how big or small. All clients are treated with respect and empathy.
Hello, my name is Janet, I am a BACP registered psychotherapist based in Medway. I offer face to face counselling in Gillingham and also Walking Talking therapy, Zoom, Facetime or telephone. I offer a confidential and safe environment in which you can explore and process the difficulties you are facing. This will be a non-judgemental space where we can discuss as much or as little as you would like, you lead the way. I aim to create an environment where you feel calm and cared for, as well as being able to trust in me with your thoughts and concerns no matter how big or small. All clients are treated with respect and empathy.
01634 564227 View 01634 564227
Photo of Brenda Mackie, Counsellor, MBACP
Brenda Mackie
Counsellor, MBACP
I'm a therapeutic counsellor qualified to diploma level with over 12 years experience in helping adults, young people and children in Medway Towns. I provide a safe, nurturing space for you to explore and make sense of how past trauma, relationship fails, bereavement or obsessive behaviours are affecting how you feel about yourself, your life and the lives of those around you. Please call me to discuss how I might be of help to you or email me to arrange an initial assessment.
I'm a therapeutic counsellor qualified to diploma level with over 12 years experience in helping adults, young people and children in Medway Towns. I provide a safe, nurturing space for you to explore and make sense of how past trauma, relationship fails, bereavement or obsessive behaviours are affecting how you feel about yourself, your life and the lives of those around you. Please call me to discuss how I might be of help to you or email me to arrange an initial assessment.
01747 448683 View 01747 448683
Photo of Lisa Ward - GreenShed Counselling , Counsellor, MBACP Accred
GreenShed Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
It takes tremendous strength and courage to reach out and finally say - something's not working. It can be easy to put aside our doubts, worries, traumas and behaviours, and let our busy lives take the lead. Yet as you know, these feelings don't just disappear, and one day something builds up within us that makes us say - 'ENOUGH, I need to deal with this.' Naturally, our first step is to reach out to friends, family, or colleagues, and although we respect their opinions, do we truly allow ourselves to be vulnerable within these relationships?
It takes tremendous strength and courage to reach out and finally say - something's not working. It can be easy to put aside our doubts, worries, traumas and behaviours, and let our busy lives take the lead. Yet as you know, these feelings don't just disappear, and one day something builds up within us that makes us say - 'ENOUGH, I need to deal with this.' Naturally, our first step is to reach out to friends, family, or colleagues, and although we respect their opinions, do we truly allow ourselves to be vulnerable within these relationships?
01795 905083 View 01795 905083
Photo of Lisa King - Lisa King Counselling Services, Counsellor, MBACP
I am a warm, friendly person and have experienced the positive, life changing affects that counselling can have on a person. I work hard to create a trusting therapeutic relationship with you so that you can feel safe and supported in our sessions together. I believe that you are the expert of your own life, because only you know how it really feels to be you and that can feel like a lonely place sometimes. Together, we can explore what is causing your distress and find ways to help. I have a lot of experience working with anxiety and have witnessed how overwhelming it can be and the affect it can have on your quality of life.
I am a warm, friendly person and have experienced the positive, life changing affects that counselling can have on a person. I work hard to create a trusting therapeutic relationship with you so that you can feel safe and supported in our sessions together. I believe that you are the expert of your own life, because only you know how it really feels to be you and that can feel like a lonely place sometimes. Together, we can explore what is causing your distress and find ways to help. I have a lot of experience working with anxiety and have witnessed how overwhelming it can be and the affect it can have on your quality of life.
01634 980680 View 01634 980680
Photo of JoAnne Regina, Psychotherapist, MA, MBABCP
JoAnne Regina
Psychotherapist, MA, MBABCP
I am an integrative psychotherapist and EMDR practitioner with over seventeen years experience. I have extensive training and clinical experience in the treatment of a range of psychological disorders, with a particular focus on trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder and problems caused by adverse childhood experiences including low self esteem, relationship difficulties, and emotional dysregulation. In addition, I have worked extensively with first responders and military veterans, giving me a deep understanding of the stressors unique to the these communities.
I am an integrative psychotherapist and EMDR practitioner with over seventeen years experience. I have extensive training and clinical experience in the treatment of a range of psychological disorders, with a particular focus on trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder and problems caused by adverse childhood experiences including low self esteem, relationship difficulties, and emotional dysregulation. In addition, I have worked extensively with first responders and military veterans, giving me a deep understanding of the stressors unique to the these communities.
01634 540623 View 01634 540623
Photo of Karen Elizabeth Williams - Rainham Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
Rainham Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
I am, Karen, a qualified counsellor who practices using Person Centred and Psychodynamic therapies. I provide a confidential space for you to be accepted as you are. We work together to explore what you want to achieve in therapy. This may initially be unknown, so we work to clarify and explore, to discover anything that is concerning or causing you unrest/stress. The calm, quiet and confidential space I offer, provides a sanctuary where self-awareness may increase, and personal growth can happen.
I am, Karen, a qualified counsellor who practices using Person Centred and Psychodynamic therapies. I provide a confidential space for you to be accepted as you are. We work together to explore what you want to achieve in therapy. This may initially be unknown, so we work to clarify and explore, to discover anything that is concerning or causing you unrest/stress. The calm, quiet and confidential space I offer, provides a sanctuary where self-awareness may increase, and personal growth can happen.
01747 449968 View 01747 449968
Photo of Sophie Wilson, Counsellor, MBACP
Sophie Wilson
Counsellor, MBACP
Occasionally, we find ourselves experiencing a wide range of difficulties. It could be anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, grief, or just a sense that you do not feel good enough no matter how hard you try. Whatever the reason, I understand that it can feel incredibly isolating and as if no one seems to understand you or how you are feeling. It can reach a point where we begin to recognise that something has got to change; but are just not sure what that is yet. I truly believe that part of the healing power is the ability to untangle your thoughts and feelings freely, without the fear of judgement and being truly heard.
Occasionally, we find ourselves experiencing a wide range of difficulties. It could be anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, grief, or just a sense that you do not feel good enough no matter how hard you try. Whatever the reason, I understand that it can feel incredibly isolating and as if no one seems to understand you or how you are feeling. It can reach a point where we begin to recognise that something has got to change; but are just not sure what that is yet. I truly believe that part of the healing power is the ability to untangle your thoughts and feelings freely, without the fear of judgement and being truly heard.
01634 980810 View 01634 980810
Photo of Cesare Saguato, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Cesare Saguato
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Are you experiencing negative thoughts, unpleasant emotions, feeling stressed, anxious, or low? Perhaps you are going through a difficult time in your life and in need of support? Are confused, struggling to find meaning, purpose and direction or find a way through? Having problems with work or relationships? If so, my training in mindfulness, self-compassion, integrative psychotherapeutic counselling and 15 years experience, enables me to weave together an approach that can best help you meet difficulties with more clarity, kindness and resourcefulness, while empowering you to make the choices and changes you are looking to make.
Are you experiencing negative thoughts, unpleasant emotions, feeling stressed, anxious, or low? Perhaps you are going through a difficult time in your life and in need of support? Are confused, struggling to find meaning, purpose and direction or find a way through? Having problems with work or relationships? If so, my training in mindfulness, self-compassion, integrative psychotherapeutic counselling and 15 years experience, enables me to weave together an approach that can best help you meet difficulties with more clarity, kindness and resourcefulness, while empowering you to make the choices and changes you are looking to make.
01634 959317 View 01634 959317
Photo of Charlotte A Smith - Bulb Therapy, Counsellor, MBACP
Bulb Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP
As I have evolved through both my Professional and Personal landscapes, I am committed to help transform, Children, Adults , Families through their Relationships, Mental Health issues, overcome Domestic Abuse and Trauma, recognise Narcissistic Abuse and achieve overall life improvement. I work with all walks of life and have many strings to my bow, I adore learning, researching and am currently undergoing further training focussing on the impact of Trauma and implementing new approaches to help manage CPTSD/PTSD. I have a diverse range of interpersonal skills and utilise my knowledge to teach and train Psychology and Counselling
As I have evolved through both my Professional and Personal landscapes, I am committed to help transform, Children, Adults , Families through their Relationships, Mental Health issues, overcome Domestic Abuse and Trauma, recognise Narcissistic Abuse and achieve overall life improvement. I work with all walks of life and have many strings to my bow, I adore learning, researching and am currently undergoing further training focussing on the impact of Trauma and implementing new approaches to help manage CPTSD/PTSD. I have a diverse range of interpersonal skills and utilise my knowledge to teach and train Psychology and Counselling
01634 540369 View 01634 540369
Photo of Sonia Modeste - UCChanges, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
UCChanges
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
I support you to see the change you need and reach the goals you want. I'm patient giving adults and children space to explore their current situation and accept or change it. Reduce social anxiety and start liking your true self. Have you experienced sexual, emotional, bullying abuse in the past? Struggling with menopause, retirement, parental estrangement? Sleeping or your appetite has changed due depression stress? You want to stop overthinking past experiences? Its time to talk about it so we can start to sort it out. You are unique and you deserve the understanding and acceptance i offer. thats when the healing begins.
I support you to see the change you need and reach the goals you want. I'm patient giving adults and children space to explore their current situation and accept or change it. Reduce social anxiety and start liking your true self. Have you experienced sexual, emotional, bullying abuse in the past? Struggling with menopause, retirement, parental estrangement? Sleeping or your appetite has changed due depression stress? You want to stop overthinking past experiences? Its time to talk about it so we can start to sort it out. You are unique and you deserve the understanding and acceptance i offer. thats when the healing begins.
01634 980636 View 01634 980636

How does your Counsellor compare?

Number of Counsellors in Gillingham

50+

Average cost per session

£60

Counsellors in Gillingham who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
89% Depression
89% Self Esteem
80% Relationship Issues
75% Stress
73% Bereavement
71% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

71% Aviva
50% AXA PPP
50% Vitality

How Counsellors in Gillingham see their clients

95% In Person and Online
5% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
13% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling

How can I find a therapist in Gillingham?

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.