Education and Learning Disabilities Counselling in Saffron Walden

Photo of Claire Lock - Unlock Therapy, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Unlock Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Are you facing something difficult and unsure where to begin? You may feel overwhelmed, misunderstood, or that you're too much or not enough. As a creative therapist, I provide a safe, supportive space to unpack, explore, and express your painful thoughts and feelings at your own pace. Working together, we’ll increase awareness of your inner world and its influence on your relationships (both past and present), empowering you to live with greater clarity, agency, and choice. When words are not enough, if you chose, we can use creative forms to support expression and communication.
Are you facing something difficult and unsure where to begin? You may feel overwhelmed, misunderstood, or that you're too much or not enough. As a creative therapist, I provide a safe, supportive space to unpack, explore, and express your painful thoughts and feelings at your own pace. Working together, we’ll increase awareness of your inner world and its influence on your relationships (both past and present), empowering you to live with greater clarity, agency, and choice. When words are not enough, if you chose, we can use creative forms to support expression and communication.
01279 744569 View 01279 744569
Photo of Karin Ball, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Drama Therap.
Karin Ball
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Drama Therap.
1 Endorsed
Hi! I'm Karin. I know that sometimes life can be very challenging for various reasons and as a result we don't always feel like our best selves. Getting neutral, non-judgemental support during these times can be life changing. I offer a holistic approach Integrating the Emotional Freedom Technique (aka tapping) together with other somatic and creative practices in my sessions for women. I primarily use tapping as a powerful tool to support the therapeutic process, as well as drawing from various modalities from different trainings that promote feeling your best self.
Hi! I'm Karin. I know that sometimes life can be very challenging for various reasons and as a result we don't always feel like our best selves. Getting neutral, non-judgemental support during these times can be life changing. I offer a holistic approach Integrating the Emotional Freedom Technique (aka tapping) together with other somatic and creative practices in my sessions for women. I primarily use tapping as a powerful tool to support the therapeutic process, as well as drawing from various modalities from different trainings that promote feeling your best self.
01799 619445 View 01799 619445
Photo of Zoe Edwards, Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Zoe Edwards
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
I am a psychoanalytic psychotherapist with previous experience in psychodynamic counselling and a career in the Criminal Justice Sector. My approach to therapy is open minded, warm and draws on a wide range of theoretical and practical considerations. Sessions can be structured or they can be open depending on what we feel is most helpful and comfortable. Sometimes people have a goal in mind they'd like to work towards or sometimes it's just a time and space to explore difficult feelings, worries or experience.
I am a psychoanalytic psychotherapist with previous experience in psychodynamic counselling and a career in the Criminal Justice Sector. My approach to therapy is open minded, warm and draws on a wide range of theoretical and practical considerations. Sessions can be structured or they can be open depending on what we feel is most helpful and comfortable. Sometimes people have a goal in mind they'd like to work towards or sometimes it's just a time and space to explore difficult feelings, worries or experience.
01799 611328 View 01799 611328
Photo of Nichola Bradley, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Nichola Bradley
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
My Name is Nichola, I’m an Accredited Psychotherapist, Clinical Supervisor, Certified Teacher and EMDR Practitioner. I began my career back in 2004 where I trained as an integrative therapist with an instant liking to Transactional Analysis. Over the years I have trained and learnt many techniques and strategies whilst also researching theories and methods to enhance my work. I have successfully adapted these methods to provide a very powerful and holistic approach that drives change and empowerment whilst desensitising the Trauma to help people build the life they love!
My Name is Nichola, I’m an Accredited Psychotherapist, Clinical Supervisor, Certified Teacher and EMDR Practitioner. I began my career back in 2004 where I trained as an integrative therapist with an instant liking to Transactional Analysis. Over the years I have trained and learnt many techniques and strategies whilst also researching theories and methods to enhance my work. I have successfully adapted these methods to provide a very powerful and holistic approach that drives change and empowerment whilst desensitising the Trauma to help people build the life they love!
01223 679734 View 01223 679734
Photo of Jo Hough, Counsellor, MBACP
Jo Hough
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
Life can feel very complicated at times and finding someone to listen without judgement can be useful - especially when you're already feeling anxious, depressed, stuck or misunderstood. Have you been struggling with issues that feel too overwhelming to think or talk about, even with your closest friend or your partner? I can help you work out how to achieve the changes that you want in your life.
Life can feel very complicated at times and finding someone to listen without judgement can be useful - especially when you're already feeling anxious, depressed, stuck or misunderstood. Have you been struggling with issues that feel too overwhelming to think or talk about, even with your closest friend or your partner? I can help you work out how to achieve the changes that you want in your life.
01279 744102 View 01279 744102
Photo of Francesca Woolgar, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Francesca Woolgar
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I’m Francesca, a Cambridgeshire-based Highly Specialised Clinical Psychologist, registered with the HCPC. I have worked in the NHS for the last 9 years, supporting people across the lifespan with mental health difficulties and/or neurodiversity. I have a particular interest in working with young people as well as family members and carers, ensuring they receive essential support so that they can continue to help their loved ones through their difficulties. I aim to co-create a safe, therapeutic space, whilst adopting a person-centred approach so that we can develop a shared understanding of your current difficulties.
Hi, I’m Francesca, a Cambridgeshire-based Highly Specialised Clinical Psychologist, registered with the HCPC. I have worked in the NHS for the last 9 years, supporting people across the lifespan with mental health difficulties and/or neurodiversity. I have a particular interest in working with young people as well as family members and carers, ensuring they receive essential support so that they can continue to help their loved ones through their difficulties. I aim to co-create a safe, therapeutic space, whilst adopting a person-centred approach so that we can develop a shared understanding of your current difficulties.
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Photo of Clair Lewoski - Cambridge Therapies, Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Cambridge Therapies
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Serves Area
Why we come to therapy may not necessarily at first appear connected to relationships in our lives past or present. What often becomes evident however, is that the relationship we have with ourselves, such as with our thoughts, feelings, desires, worries and concerns may be a source of difficulty for us. Looking at this relationship together offers a route to transformation.
Why we come to therapy may not necessarily at first appear connected to relationships in our lives past or present. What often becomes evident however, is that the relationship we have with ourselves, such as with our thoughts, feelings, desires, worries and concerns may be a source of difficulty for us. Looking at this relationship together offers a route to transformation.
07789 916777 View 07789 916777
Photo of Susan Monro, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Susan Monro
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Serves Area
Art is a powerful resource in psychological healing. During an art therapy session I use art making as the primary mode of expression, alongside talking with my client. You do not need to be good at art to benefit from art therapy. The artwork produced in sessions is more an expression of feelings and emotions rather than a traditional drawing or painting. I work with children, young people, and adults. During art therapy I will help my clients to express and articulate often complex thoughts and feelings through art making. This may be following difficult or traumatic experiences which are hard to talk about.
Art is a powerful resource in psychological healing. During an art therapy session I use art making as the primary mode of expression, alongside talking with my client. You do not need to be good at art to benefit from art therapy. The artwork produced in sessions is more an expression of feelings and emotions rather than a traditional drawing or painting. I work with children, young people, and adults. During art therapy I will help my clients to express and articulate often complex thoughts and feelings through art making. This may be following difficult or traumatic experiences which are hard to talk about.
01279 744434 View 01279 744434

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rachael Forder, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Music Therap.
Rachael Forder
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Music Therap.
Cambridge CB23
I am a creative therapist registered with the HCPC and have been practicing for several years. I primarily work with children and adults who have experienced trauma, or are experiencing poor mental health. The client may be coming to therapy to work on processing their trauma, exploring their emotions, working towards finding the root cause, or finding ways to express their feelings and delve into their unconscious in creative, non-directive ways. Mainly, they want to explore their issues and create a better life for themselves.
I am a creative therapist registered with the HCPC and have been practicing for several years. I primarily work with children and adults who have experienced trauma, or are experiencing poor mental health. The client may be coming to therapy to work on processing their trauma, exploring their emotions, working towards finding the root cause, or finding ways to express their feelings and delve into their unconscious in creative, non-directive ways. Mainly, they want to explore their issues and create a better life for themselves.
01223 658394 View 01223 658394
Photo of Sophie Lucas, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Sophie Lucas
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Cambridge CB23
I am an HCPC registered art therapist based in Cambridgeshire. I offer in-person sessions or creative virtual sessions. I provide a safe, trauma informed and neuro-affirmative space for children, young people and adults to explore emotions via creativity and play. With over 20 years of experience working with young people I build trusting and effective therapeutic relationships and tailor support to each individual’s needs. Building a space within which they can work through experiences and difficulties.
I am an HCPC registered art therapist based in Cambridgeshire. I offer in-person sessions or creative virtual sessions. I provide a safe, trauma informed and neuro-affirmative space for children, young people and adults to explore emotions via creativity and play. With over 20 years of experience working with young people I build trusting and effective therapeutic relationships and tailor support to each individual’s needs. Building a space within which they can work through experiences and difficulties.
01223 657656 View 01223 657656
Photo of Claudia Brooker - Light Bubble Counselling, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Light Bubble Counselling
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Serves Area
Do you carry pain that doesn't have a clear explanation; in your body, your relationships, or both? Maybe you've lived with complex trauma, abuse, or experiences from childhood that still shape how safe the world feels now. Maybe that shows up as fibromyalgia or chronic pain your body won't let go of, or as patterns in your closest relationships that feel impossible to shift. Many people I work with have spent years searching for answers their bodies and minds couldn't quite put into words. Together, we make sense of what's underneath, at a pace that feels right for you. English and French session.
Do you carry pain that doesn't have a clear explanation; in your body, your relationships, or both? Maybe you've lived with complex trauma, abuse, or experiences from childhood that still shape how safe the world feels now. Maybe that shows up as fibromyalgia or chronic pain your body won't let go of, or as patterns in your closest relationships that feel impossible to shift. Many people I work with have spent years searching for answers their bodies and minds couldn't quite put into words. Together, we make sense of what's underneath, at a pace that feels right for you. English and French session.
01206 239169 View 01206 239169
Photo of Dr Brittni Jones, Psychologist, CPsychol
Dr Brittni Jones
Psychologist, CPsychol
Loughton IG10
I am an HCPC Registered and Chartered Psychologist, Doctor of Clinical Psychology, and therapist with over 10 years experience in mental health services. With previous NHS experience in a specialist hospital for adults with personality disorders, as well as at Great Ormond Street Hospital and psychotherapy services for adolescents and adults with mental and physical health conditions, I have the knowledge and professional experience to help with a wide variety of difficulties. I offer specialist assessments and therapy for children, adolescents, and adults.
I am an HCPC Registered and Chartered Psychologist, Doctor of Clinical Psychology, and therapist with over 10 years experience in mental health services. With previous NHS experience in a specialist hospital for adults with personality disorders, as well as at Great Ormond Street Hospital and psychotherapy services for adolescents and adults with mental and physical health conditions, I have the knowledge and professional experience to help with a wide variety of difficulties. I offer specialist assessments and therapy for children, adolescents, and adults.
020 3872 2631 View 020 3872 2631
Photo of Tami Oren, Counsellor, MBACP
Tami Oren
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
You’re carrying more than you should have to carry alone. I work with people at turning points - grief, unwelcome change, neurodiversity, medical and life changing diagnoses who are ready to be met, not managed. Maybe you’re holding it together on the outside, functioning, showing up - while inside something feels off and you can’t quite name it. Maybe you’re not even sure you’re struggling enough to deserve support. You are. Therapy allows you to be with your thoughts and feelings in the presence of someone who hears what you can’t, holds it without judgement, and gently reflects it back , opening the possibility of seeing things
You’re carrying more than you should have to carry alone. I work with people at turning points - grief, unwelcome change, neurodiversity, medical and life changing diagnoses who are ready to be met, not managed. Maybe you’re holding it together on the outside, functioning, showing up - while inside something feels off and you can’t quite name it. Maybe you’re not even sure you’re struggling enough to deserve support. You are. Therapy allows you to be with your thoughts and feelings in the presence of someone who hears what you can’t, holds it without judgement, and gently reflects it back , opening the possibility of seeing things
01223 912257 View 01223 912257
Photo of Dr Jessica Memarzia, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Jessica Memarzia
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
I am a Principal Clinical Psychologist (HCPC registered) with over 10 years experience working with individuals of all ages and a wide variety of presenting difficulties in mental health, such as specific phobias, social anxiety, general anxiety, depression, OCD and PTSD. I will always take a compassionate approach to understanding whatever your difficulties are, and be led by your hopes for therapy in how we work together. Having worked for many years in neurodevelopmental services, I am particularly passionate about understanding Autism and ADHD, supporting neurodiverse individuals, and adapting my approach for each person.
I am a Principal Clinical Psychologist (HCPC registered) with over 10 years experience working with individuals of all ages and a wide variety of presenting difficulties in mental health, such as specific phobias, social anxiety, general anxiety, depression, OCD and PTSD. I will always take a compassionate approach to understanding whatever your difficulties are, and be led by your hopes for therapy in how we work together. Having worked for many years in neurodevelopmental services, I am particularly passionate about understanding Autism and ADHD, supporting neurodiverse individuals, and adapting my approach for each person.
01773 301476 View 01773 301476
Photo of Josie Webster, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Drama Therap.
Josie Webster
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Drama Therap.
Waitlist for new clients
I understand that everyone's story is different, and it's okay to need some help telling it. I am an MA-trained Dramatherapist, specialising in supporting children and adolescents to thrive. I know starting therapy can feel scary, so making sure you feel safe and comfortable is my biggest priority. I am particularly experienced and confident working with neurodivergent young people, who may have been consistently failed by the system and sadly experienced trauma along the way. I can offer a warm listening ear, gentle yet effective psychotherapy interventions, as well as a big dose of playfulness along the way!
I understand that everyone's story is different, and it's okay to need some help telling it. I am an MA-trained Dramatherapist, specialising in supporting children and adolescents to thrive. I know starting therapy can feel scary, so making sure you feel safe and comfortable is my biggest priority. I am particularly experienced and confident working with neurodivergent young people, who may have been consistently failed by the system and sadly experienced trauma along the way. I can offer a warm listening ear, gentle yet effective psychotherapy interventions, as well as a big dose of playfulness along the way!
01223 650434 View 01223 650434
Photo of Emma Leeper, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Emma Leeper
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Sudbury CO10
We all have periods where we struggle with ourselves, with our feelings and emotions, with our lives. We can experience the darkest of thoughts and feel very isolated, all too often believing we are alone in our suffering. That need not be the case, and with some support and nurturing, we can begin to feel stronger and look towards the future, rather than away from it. My name is Emma and I can offer you a warm yet professional and non-judgemental approach to counselling in a safe, calm space. I use an integrated , client-led approach derived not only from my years of training, but also from a wealth of life experience.
We all have periods where we struggle with ourselves, with our feelings and emotions, with our lives. We can experience the darkest of thoughts and feel very isolated, all too often believing we are alone in our suffering. That need not be the case, and with some support and nurturing, we can begin to feel stronger and look towards the future, rather than away from it. My name is Emma and I can offer you a warm yet professional and non-judgemental approach to counselling in a safe, calm space. I use an integrated , client-led approach derived not only from my years of training, but also from a wealth of life experience.
01787 320697 View 01787 320697
Photo of Lauren Bowen, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Lauren Bowen
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Searching for a space where you can slow down and feel deeply understood? I’m a Person-Centred Counsellor and psychotherapist offering a space for you to explore life’s challenges at your own pace, supporting you to reconnect with yourself and listen to your own needs. Online sessions available across the whole of England and face to face sessions based in Colchester.
Searching for a space where you can slow down and feel deeply understood? I’m a Person-Centred Counsellor and psychotherapist offering a space for you to explore life’s challenges at your own pace, supporting you to reconnect with yourself and listen to your own needs. Online sessions available across the whole of England and face to face sessions based in Colchester.
01206 586095 View 01206 586095
Photo of Fiona Jane Grace - Fiona Grace Counselling, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Fiona Grace Counselling
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Serves Area
It's not always easy to reach out and ask for support. We often feel that we can manage on our own or don't want to bother anyone with our thoughts and feelings. It can be hard to find a balance between work, relationships, family & other commitments to prioritise yourself. No matter what brings you to therapy the most important part is the relationship we will share. I aim to ensure you feel heard & give you a space to work through anything you want to bring to help you have a greater insight & self-awareness and I will walk alongside you on this journey. Counselling isn't a one size fits all package it's as individual as you are.
It's not always easy to reach out and ask for support. We often feel that we can manage on our own or don't want to bother anyone with our thoughts and feelings. It can be hard to find a balance between work, relationships, family & other commitments to prioritise yourself. No matter what brings you to therapy the most important part is the relationship we will share. I aim to ensure you feel heard & give you a space to work through anything you want to bring to help you have a greater insight & self-awareness and I will walk alongside you on this journey. Counselling isn't a one size fits all package it's as individual as you are.
01243 979820 View 01243 979820
Photo of Frances Thompson, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Frances Thompson
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Hi, I'm Frances. I'm a Child and Adolescent Psychotherapeutic Counsellor working with young people aged 5-25. I offer therapy that includes talking, creative arts, and play, tailored to each young person I work with. My practice focusses on building a trusting relationship with each child I get to know, supporting them to express and process their experience with a deeply empathetic response. I also offer parent/carer support sessions. I keep up to date on the latest neurobiological understandings of how therapy can restructure neural pathways, repair attachment bonds and facilitate recovery from trauma.
Hi, I'm Frances. I'm a Child and Adolescent Psychotherapeutic Counsellor working with young people aged 5-25. I offer therapy that includes talking, creative arts, and play, tailored to each young person I work with. My practice focusses on building a trusting relationship with each child I get to know, supporting them to express and process their experience with a deeply empathetic response. I also offer parent/carer support sessions. I keep up to date on the latest neurobiological understandings of how therapy can restructure neural pathways, repair attachment bonds and facilitate recovery from trauma.
01480 772088 View 01480 772088
Photo of Emily Yao, Psychotherapist, MSc
Emily Yao
Psychotherapist, MSc
Serves Area
Do you struggle with focus, procrastination, or emotional overwhelm? I support people whose minds are often in hyperdrive, especially those with ADHD and/or anxiety. Over time, living this way can put strain on your relationships, wear down your self-esteem, and drain the joy from life. I offer a space where you don't have to mask and where you'll be supported by someone who has been there personally, and who brings a strong grounding in the research on both ADHD and anxiety. Together we'll work towards more ease and clarity, and a steadier trust in yourself.
Do you struggle with focus, procrastination, or emotional overwhelm? I support people whose minds are often in hyperdrive, especially those with ADHD and/or anxiety. Over time, living this way can put strain on your relationships, wear down your self-esteem, and drain the joy from life. I offer a space where you don't have to mask and where you'll be supported by someone who has been there personally, and who brings a strong grounding in the research on both ADHD and anxiety. Together we'll work towards more ease and clarity, and a steadier trust in yourself.
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Education and Learning Disabilities Counsellors
How effective is treatment for learning disabilities?
When initiated early and tailored to a child’s specific needs, learning disability treatment can be quite effective at helping a child cope with their disability, though its exact efficacy may depend on the severity of symptoms and whether comorbid disorders exist. Less is known about treatment initiated in adulthood, but it is certainly possible that an adult with a learning disability will see some improvement—or at the very least, identify workarounds and accommodations that could make symptoms less burdensome in day-to-day life.

When should someone seek treatment for learning disabilities?
It’s best to seek treatment as early as possible. Because learning disabilities often go unnoticed until a child starts school, or even until they’re a few years along, regular check-ins with teachers and doctors can help parents determine whether children are meeting milestones and keeping up with peers or whether an evaluation for learning disabilities may be warranted. And although earlier is always better, it’s never too late to be evaluated for learning disabilities and to seek treatment.

What happens if learning disabilities are left untreated?
Undiagnosed and untreated learning disabilities can be a source of significant frustration and shame for a child, who may feel that their challenges stem from a lack of intelligence or willpower. Such feelings can trigger low self-esteem, depression, or anxiety, which may push a child toward risky behaviors, including substance use. In adulthood, untreated learning disabilities can interfere with career success, and lingering feelings of self-doubt and shame can negatively affect someone’s mental health.

Are there medications for learning disabilities?
Currently, there are no medications designed to treat specific learning disabilities such as dysgraphia or dyscalculia. However, someone with a learning disability may be prescribed medication for a comorbid condition, such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD, which may have positive downstream effects on their learning disability; for example, a child with both ADHD and dyslexia may find that they’re better able to focus on their reading exercises after being prescribed a stimulant medication.