Parenting Counselling in Sunderland

Photo of Dr Gemma Gate, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Gemma Gate
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
Are you a parent feeling overwhelmed by your child’s big emotions, anxiety, low self-esteem, or challenging behaviour?
I work in a flexible, tailored way, drawing upon CBT, attachment-focused therapy, and NVR to support emotion regulation, build resilience, and strengthen family relationships. With expertise in child development and attachment, I help you and your child feel calmer, more connected, and confident in facing challenges.
Are you a parent feeling overwhelmed by your child’s big emotions, anxiety, low self-esteem, or challenging behaviour?
I work in a flexible, tailored way, drawing upon CBT, attachment-focused therapy, and NVR to support emotion regulation, build resilience, and strengthen family relationships. With expertise in child development and attachment, I help you and your child feel calmer, more connected, and confident in facing challenges.
01757 607020 View 01757 607020
Photo of Robert Edminson, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Robert Edminson
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
I am a qualified Person Centred Counsellor and Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT). I have over 20 years experience working with children and adults with complex needs. My focus is on helping clients understand and address thought patterns that may be impacting their emotional well-being and behaviour. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, aimed at providing a safe, non-judgmental space to explore life’s challenges. I work with adults and adolescents on issues including ADHD, addiction, anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and low self-esteem.
I am a qualified Person Centred Counsellor and Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT). I have over 20 years experience working with children and adults with complex needs. My focus is on helping clients understand and address thought patterns that may be impacting their emotional well-being and behaviour. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, aimed at providing a safe, non-judgmental space to explore life’s challenges. I work with adults and adolescents on issues including ADHD, addiction, anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and low self-esteem.
0191 743 2773 View 0191 743 2773
Gillian Judith Ellis
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, fear? There is help and support available to you, all you have to do is reach out. We know life is hard, but sometimes other things make it even harder, this is where I can help. Counselling can help you make sense of things, help to get some understanding of what you need and how to make changes that will help. It also gives you some focus on what's important to you, relationships, handling stress better, major life changes and much more. All of this is possible, and achievable, take control of your life and reach out for the support you deserve.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, fear? There is help and support available to you, all you have to do is reach out. We know life is hard, but sometimes other things make it even harder, this is where I can help. Counselling can help you make sense of things, help to get some understanding of what you need and how to make changes that will help. It also gives you some focus on what's important to you, relationships, handling stress better, major life changes and much more. All of this is possible, and achievable, take control of your life and reach out for the support you deserve.
0191 743 9063 View 0191 743 9063
Photo of Beverley Ann Colman, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Beverley Ann Colman
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, I’m Bev. Sometimes life can feel overwhelming and when our thoughts are disorganised it can be challenging to see a clear way forward and to make positive and healthy choices. Although it is helpful talking to others, many people feel more comfortable and more able to be fully open, talking to a trained professional. I am an Integrative Person-centered Counsellor and EMDR Practitioner. I have experience in supporting and helping clients overcome mental health issues including; bereavement, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties and trauma.
Hello, I’m Bev. Sometimes life can feel overwhelming and when our thoughts are disorganised it can be challenging to see a clear way forward and to make positive and healthy choices. Although it is helpful talking to others, many people feel more comfortable and more able to be fully open, talking to a trained professional. I am an Integrative Person-centered Counsellor and EMDR Practitioner. I have experience in supporting and helping clients overcome mental health issues including; bereavement, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties and trauma.
07446 869552 View 07446 869552
Photo of Michael Colling, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Michael Colling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Whether you are finding it difficult to make a tough choice, or if you are experiencing difficult times that are a little bit overwhelming for you; if its to do with bereavement, mental health/illness, depression, anxiety, phobias, relationships or something in the past that feels unresolved, then it would be a privilege for me as a qualified counsellor/psychotherapist to join you on your road to a better place. I bring with me insights from my experience in mental health nursing also. I am a trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming counsellor with an excellent reputation in this field.
Whether you are finding it difficult to make a tough choice, or if you are experiencing difficult times that are a little bit overwhelming for you; if its to do with bereavement, mental health/illness, depression, anxiety, phobias, relationships or something in the past that feels unresolved, then it would be a privilege for me as a qualified counsellor/psychotherapist to join you on your road to a better place. I bring with me insights from my experience in mental health nursing also. I am a trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming counsellor with an excellent reputation in this field.
0191 743 6578 View 0191 743 6578
Photo of Laura Britton - Laura Britton Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Laura Britton Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Feeling anxious, overwhelmed or stuck, even when you’re managing day to day? I work with children, teenagers and adults experiencing anxiety, trauma, low confidence and emotional overwhelm, including one-off incidents such as accidents or medical procedures. I offer EMDR and psychotherapy in-person in Sunderland and outdoor therapy in a dedicated private woodland in Northumberland, within easy travel distance from Morpeth, Ponteland and Hexham. Support is calm, flexible and adapted to you.
Feeling anxious, overwhelmed or stuck, even when you’re managing day to day? I work with children, teenagers and adults experiencing anxiety, trauma, low confidence and emotional overwhelm, including one-off incidents such as accidents or medical procedures. I offer EMDR and psychotherapy in-person in Sunderland and outdoor therapy in a dedicated private woodland in Northumberland, within easy travel distance from Morpeth, Ponteland and Hexham. Support is calm, flexible and adapted to you.
0191 743 7696 View 0191 743 7696
Photo of Samantha Jane Johnson, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Samantha Jane Johnson
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Hi, I'm Samantha Johnson, co founder of SR2 Therapeutic Solutions and I am a Person Centred Therapist (PCT) and Cognitive Behavioural therapist (CBT) for children and adults. I have been practising counselling PCT & CBT since 2020. I have previously worked for over 8 years supporting children and adults in educational settings. I have recently worked as a school lead in mental health counselling where I supported children with additional and complex needs, their parents and carers and their wider family. I currently have my own therapy space and offer a free telephone or video consultation in the first instance with all clients.
Hi, I'm Samantha Johnson, co founder of SR2 Therapeutic Solutions and I am a Person Centred Therapist (PCT) and Cognitive Behavioural therapist (CBT) for children and adults. I have been practising counselling PCT & CBT since 2020. I have previously worked for over 8 years supporting children and adults in educational settings. I have recently worked as a school lead in mental health counselling where I supported children with additional and complex needs, their parents and carers and their wider family. I currently have my own therapy space and offer a free telephone or video consultation in the first instance with all clients.
0191 743 9755 View 0191 743 9755
Photo of Felicity Cousins, Counsellor, MBACP
Felicity Cousins
Counsellor, MBACP
I can offer you a safe space to be yourself. I’m a Psychotherapeutic counsellor and a registered member of the BACP who has direct experience working with adults suffering with anxiety, depression and more. I am nurturing, warm and compassionate and with an approach free from judgement, I can help you to identify and work through any challenges that you are facing. I work relationally using integrative methods which means counselling is a unique process -depending on what you need. Whether you want to work in the here and now to make changes or delve into the past and explore your story, I offer flexibility in therapy sessions.
I can offer you a safe space to be yourself. I’m a Psychotherapeutic counsellor and a registered member of the BACP who has direct experience working with adults suffering with anxiety, depression and more. I am nurturing, warm and compassionate and with an approach free from judgement, I can help you to identify and work through any challenges that you are facing. I work relationally using integrative methods which means counselling is a unique process -depending on what you need. Whether you want to work in the here and now to make changes or delve into the past and explore your story, I offer flexibility in therapy sessions.
0191 814 7131 View 0191 814 7131
Photo of Jennifer Cottam - Talk Works, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Talk Works
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
Life is hard. Talking helps. Talk Works deliver counselling, CBT, EMDR and psychology to individuals who require mental health support. Therapy offers you a safe, confidential place to talk about your life and anything that may be distressing. Whenever we get people talking, great things happen.
Life is hard. Talking helps. Talk Works deliver counselling, CBT, EMDR and psychology to individuals who require mental health support. Therapy offers you a safe, confidential place to talk about your life and anything that may be distressing. Whenever we get people talking, great things happen.
0191 743 4109 View 0191 743 4109
Photo of Karen Ambelez, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Karen Ambelez
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
Struggling to cope with negative emotions can feel very isolating and, by the nature of some problems, guilt and shame can make us feel stigmatised and prevent us reaching out for support even when its not our fault. People come to counselling for all kinds of reasons from childhood trauma to life events as adults such as divorce, bereavement and stress and what they all have in common is a desire to feel better and begin to enjoy life. Some people find they use alcohol or drugs in an attempt to cope with their feelings but inventively this creates more problems.
Struggling to cope with negative emotions can feel very isolating and, by the nature of some problems, guilt and shame can make us feel stigmatised and prevent us reaching out for support even when its not our fault. People come to counselling for all kinds of reasons from childhood trauma to life events as adults such as divorce, bereavement and stress and what they all have in common is a desire to feel better and begin to enjoy life. Some people find they use alcohol or drugs in an attempt to cope with their feelings but inventively this creates more problems.
07480 535288 View 07480 535288
Photo of Deborah Dixon, Counsellor, MBACP
Deborah Dixon
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed, tired of existing and not living? Is there something preventing you from moving forward? There are times in everyone’s life when things become too much and it is during these times it is important to know that you are not alone. I am passionate about supporting you to heal, to identify solutions and make changes, to help you to create a happier, healthier and peaceful life. I work with both adults and children, helping to overcome a wide range of emotional difficulties. I currently have limited availability for new clients in April 2026 and offer an initial free, no obligation consultation.
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed, tired of existing and not living? Is there something preventing you from moving forward? There are times in everyone’s life when things become too much and it is during these times it is important to know that you are not alone. I am passionate about supporting you to heal, to identify solutions and make changes, to help you to create a happier, healthier and peaceful life. I work with both adults and children, helping to overcome a wide range of emotional difficulties. I currently have limited availability for new clients in April 2026 and offer an initial free, no obligation consultation.
0191 743 9055 View 0191 743 9055
Photo of Julie Campbell - North East Counselling Services, Counsellor, MBACP
North East Counselling Services
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
North East Counselling Services provide counselling to anyone aged 4+ using our team of experienced counsellors. We provide counselling for couples in addition to individuals. We believe that getting you the right counsellor is important to your progress which is why we carry out an assessment then allocate you to the most appropriate counsellor, not just whoever is available. We've got a team of around 50 counsellors and 98% of our clients have said that our counselling helped them.
North East Counselling Services provide counselling to anyone aged 4+ using our team of experienced counsellors. We provide counselling for couples in addition to individuals. We believe that getting you the right counsellor is important to your progress which is why we carry out an assessment then allocate you to the most appropriate counsellor, not just whoever is available. We've got a team of around 50 counsellors and 98% of our clients have said that our counselling helped them.
01757 605682 View 01757 605682
Photo of Andrew Flynn - Talking Spaces UK , Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Talking Spaces UK
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Online Only
I work from the understanding that human experience includes distress, conflict, and harm, and that avoiding these realities is neither helpful nor therapeutic. In the therapy room, I offer a non-judgemental, reflective space where clients can explore their experiences honestly and at their own pace. My role is not to impose interpretations or provide simplistic reassurance, but to listen carefully, ask meaningful questions, and support clients in developing insight, emotional awareness, and psychological resilience.I see therapy as a collaborative process grounded in respect, autonomy, and ethical practice.
I work from the understanding that human experience includes distress, conflict, and harm, and that avoiding these realities is neither helpful nor therapeutic. In the therapy room, I offer a non-judgemental, reflective space where clients can explore their experiences honestly and at their own pace. My role is not to impose interpretations or provide simplistic reassurance, but to listen carefully, ask meaningful questions, and support clients in developing insight, emotional awareness, and psychological resilience.I see therapy as a collaborative process grounded in respect, autonomy, and ethical practice.
01429 806967 View 01429 806967
Photo of Debbie Dawson - Unboxed Counselling , Counsellor, MBACP
Unboxed Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am also a mum to a neurodivergent child so I understand some of the unique challenges that come with being an autistic parent.
Sessions are tailored to your needs. If you don't want to make eye contact, you don't have to and you don't need to explain why. If you want to switch your camera off that's fine too. I take a neuro-affirming stance and believe we are all unique and valid.
I am also a mum to a neurodivergent child so I understand some of the unique challenges that come with being an autistic parent.
Sessions are tailored to your needs. If you don't want to make eye contact, you don't have to and you don't need to explain why. If you want to switch your camera off that's fine too. I take a neuro-affirming stance and believe we are all unique and valid.
01438 594858 View 01438 594858
Photo of Dr Stuart Sadler, Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Dr Stuart Sadler
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Serves Area
I specialise in helping people overcome problems such as depression, anxiety (whether due to worry, obsessive-compulsive disorder, health anxiety, or intrusive thoughts), and sleep disorders (such as insomnia, nightmares and early waking) so they can feel better and function better in day to day life again.
I specialise in helping people overcome problems such as depression, anxiety (whether due to worry, obsessive-compulsive disorder, health anxiety, or intrusive thoughts), and sleep disorders (such as insomnia, nightmares and early waking) so they can feel better and function better in day to day life again.
019467 60715 View 019467 60715
Photo of Natalie Holmes, Counsellor, MBACP
Natalie Holmes
Counsellor, MBACP
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Natalie, the therapist at East Durham Counselling. I work with adults and young people in private practice. I’m trained in integrative counselling, which means I have lots of techniques to choose from when deciding what will help my clients the most; I draw from person-centred, psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioural therapies depending on the presenting issues and client's needs. I have experience of working with autism, ADHD, abuse, anxiety, bereavement, depression, domestic violence, eating disorders, OCD, PTSD, relationship issues, self-harm, stress, trauma and dissociation.
Hi, I’m Natalie, the therapist at East Durham Counselling. I work with adults and young people in private practice. I’m trained in integrative counselling, which means I have lots of techniques to choose from when deciding what will help my clients the most; I draw from person-centred, psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioural therapies depending on the presenting issues and client's needs. I have experience of working with autism, ADHD, abuse, anxiety, bereavement, depression, domestic violence, eating disorders, OCD, PTSD, relationship issues, self-harm, stress, trauma and dissociation.
0191 743 9237 View 0191 743 9237
Photo of Kelly Mullaney, Counsellor, BACP
Kelly Mullaney
Counsellor, BACP
Online Only
I am a professional online counsellor. Offering no waiting lists and no session limits. £25 per session. I offer intergrative therapy, tailored to suit each individual.
I am a professional online counsellor. Offering no waiting lists and no session limits. £25 per session. I offer intergrative therapy, tailored to suit each individual.
01429 802901 View 01429 802901
Photo of Elaine Marie Conway, Psychotherapist, MA, COSRT General
Elaine Marie Conway
Psychotherapist, MA, COSRT General
Serves Area
Are you experiencing sexual difficulties which are impacting on your relationships but don't know how to find a solution? I would encourage you to come and talk it through with me. I offer an initial telephone call to discuss your issues and to see whether this is the right place for you. I work with a variety of issues related to sexuality with both individuals and couples. I welcome people from the LGBTQ+ community and also people who are neurodiverse. I have a warm and approachable style and provide a mutually respectful atmosphere in which we can explore issues and change collaboratively.
Are you experiencing sexual difficulties which are impacting on your relationships but don't know how to find a solution? I would encourage you to come and talk it through with me. I offer an initial telephone call to discuss your issues and to see whether this is the right place for you. I work with a variety of issues related to sexuality with both individuals and couples. I welcome people from the LGBTQ+ community and also people who are neurodiverse. I have a warm and approachable style and provide a mutually respectful atmosphere in which we can explore issues and change collaboratively.
0191 917 5926 View 0191 917 5926
Photo of Dr Kathleen Hass, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Kathleen Hass
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have a warm and empathetic approach, and a wealth of experience both in the NHS and in private practice working with adults, adolescents and children with a range of problems, including: anxiety; depression; trauma and PTSD; stress and burnout; obsessions and compulsions; relationship problems; Personality Disorder and emotional regulation; and, emotional difficulties associated with physical health problems. I regularly work with clients with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder, and learning disabilities.
I have a warm and empathetic approach, and a wealth of experience both in the NHS and in private practice working with adults, adolescents and children with a range of problems, including: anxiety; depression; trauma and PTSD; stress and burnout; obsessions and compulsions; relationship problems; Personality Disorder and emotional regulation; and, emotional difficulties associated with physical health problems. I regularly work with clients with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder, and learning disabilities.
0191 814 7219 View 0191 814 7219
Photo of Luisa Williams - My Family Psychologist, Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
My Family Psychologist
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My work is to empower you to understand and manage your own and your family's psychological wellbeing. From initial confusion and hopelessness the end game is enlightenment and clarity. I rely on data, clear aims, objectives, and objective measurement.
My work is to empower you to understand and manage your own and your family's psychological wellbeing. From initial confusion and hopelessness the end game is enlightenment and clarity. I rely on data, clear aims, objectives, and objective measurement.
01670 338152 View 01670 338152
Parenting Counsellors
What does therapy for parenting look like?
Therapists may work with parents individually, together, or include the whole family to find solutions for the problems a parent faces. Many parent-based therapies work on a parent’s relationship with their children, problem-solving within the family, and analysis of family dynamics. Therapy conducted remotely by video may be helpful in allowing a therapist to observe how families interact in their own homes.

When should a parent seek therapy?
When behavioral problems begin to disrupt the healthy functioning of a family, it may be a good time to look into therapy. If parents find that children are acting out in school, have started using drugs or alcohol, have developed eating disorders, or other similar red flags, a therapist may be able to help.

How long does therapy take for parenting problems?
Depending on the severity of a family’s challenges and the type of treatment utilized, therapy for parenting can last from weeks to months. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a pragmatic therapy type that can be brief, most often ranging from between 5 and 20 sessions. Structural family therapy, which inspects family dynamics, often takes several months. Parent-child interaction therapy is typically shorter-term, lasting between 10 and 20 sessions. For any therapy, the duration will depend on the progress made and results realized.

Can therapy help parents dealing with burnout or stress?
Parenting is difficult. Parents may dismiss or conceal feelings of exhaustion, overwhelm, or escape ideation—imagining withdrawing from their parental obligations altogether. but left unattended, these feelings can have negative effects on the whole family. A therapist can help parents work on the skills they might need to better cope with the burdens of parenting and help them be the best parents they can be.