Female Counselling in Haddington

Meriel Strang Steel Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
I have experience in working successfully with a very varied client group: trauma, PTSD, depression,anxiety,grief,parental support,anger,obsessive compulsive disorder,self-harm and eating disorders. I’ve always been driven by a desire to promote positive change, in more recent years I have become particularly interested in Neuroplasticity - our brain's ability to change and adapt, to learn and unlearn, for example it has the ability to unlearn negative behaviours, thought patterns and responses and learn new ones in their place. We can train or re-wire our brain to change its structure and teach it to function in different ways.
I have experience in working successfully with a very varied client group: trauma, PTSD, depression,anxiety,grief,parental support,anger,obsessive compulsive disorder,self-harm and eating disorders. I’ve always been driven by a desire to promote positive change, in more recent years I have become particularly interested in Neuroplasticity - our brain's ability to change and adapt, to learn and unlearn, for example it has the ability to unlearn negative behaviours, thought patterns and responses and learn new ones in their place. We can train or re-wire our brain to change its structure and teach it to function in different ways.
0113 519 9783 View 0113 519 9783
Photo of Valerie Smith, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Valerie Smith
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
I have a deep belief in people’s capacity to grow, even through the most difficult circumstances. I can offer you a warm, safe space where you feel at ease to explore what is troubling you and what must change. My focus is on enabling you to find genuine compassion for all parts of your experience, however unwelcome or even frightening. This can be deeply healing. I enjoy working with young people (16 plus) and adults of all ages and a wide range of different life experiences.
I have a deep belief in people’s capacity to grow, even through the most difficult circumstances. I can offer you a warm, safe space where you feel at ease to explore what is troubling you and what must change. My focus is on enabling you to find genuine compassion for all parts of your experience, however unwelcome or even frightening. This can be deeply healing. I enjoy working with young people (16 plus) and adults of all ages and a wide range of different life experiences.
01875 447076 View 01875 447076
Photo of Dr Lauren Forrest, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Lauren Forrest
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
I’m Lauren, I'm a Highly Specialist Clinical Psychologist in perinatal mental health and registered with the HCPC. I am also a mum of 3 so I truly understand first hand the great joy but also the unique challenges the perinatal period throws up. Are you struggling with the aftermath of a difficult or traumatic birth or neonatal experience ? Are you fearful of birth? Are you worrying about your babies health and wellbeing? Are you navigating pregnancy after the loss? Perhaps you are experiencing intrusive thoughts and engaging in excessive checking behaviours. Are you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed or touched out?
I’m Lauren, I'm a Highly Specialist Clinical Psychologist in perinatal mental health and registered with the HCPC. I am also a mum of 3 so I truly understand first hand the great joy but also the unique challenges the perinatal period throws up. Are you struggling with the aftermath of a difficult or traumatic birth or neonatal experience ? Are you fearful of birth? Are you worrying about your babies health and wellbeing? Are you navigating pregnancy after the loss? Perhaps you are experiencing intrusive thoughts and engaging in excessive checking behaviours. Are you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed or touched out?
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Photo of Joanna Andrea Davis - Maple Tree Counselling, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Maple Tree Counselling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
My name is Joanna Davis. I am offering you an honest, non-judgemental, and empathic safe space to bring any issues you have into the room to untangle, digest, find meaning and a way forward. Whether you’re seeking to find your voice, heal old wounds, or simply feel more at peace with who you are, I’m here to help guide you on that journey. I believe that true growth begins with self-awareness and offering some of the kindness and acceptance we give to others, to ourselves. Together, we can explore what’s holding you back, navigate life’s challenges, and create a sense of clarity, balance and inner peace.
My name is Joanna Davis. I am offering you an honest, non-judgemental, and empathic safe space to bring any issues you have into the room to untangle, digest, find meaning and a way forward. Whether you’re seeking to find your voice, heal old wounds, or simply feel more at peace with who you are, I’m here to help guide you on that journey. I believe that true growth begins with self-awareness and offering some of the kindness and acceptance we give to others, to ourselves. Together, we can explore what’s holding you back, navigate life’s challenges, and create a sense of clarity, balance and inner peace.
0131 381 8754 View 0131 381 8754
Photo of Dr Lucy Anne Abraham - Dr Lucy Abraham, Consultant Clinical Psychologist, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Lucy Abraham, Consultant Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Waitlist for new clients
I’m Lucy, I'm Director of Lucy’s Place CIC, an NHS Consultant Clinical Psychologist and registered with the HCPC. I founded Lucy’s Place CIC because I want to offer people holistic person centred care - a place to recover, connect and thrive! I’m experienced in the treatment of a large range of mental health difficulties including depression, anxiety, PTSD and interpersonal problems. My career has focussed largely on complex difficulties, but at Lucy’s Place CIC I am keen to work with anyone that wants gain a better understanding, to make a change in their lives for the better, improve their wellbeing and sense of self.
I’m Lucy, I'm Director of Lucy’s Place CIC, an NHS Consultant Clinical Psychologist and registered with the HCPC. I founded Lucy’s Place CIC because I want to offer people holistic person centred care - a place to recover, connect and thrive! I’m experienced in the treatment of a large range of mental health difficulties including depression, anxiety, PTSD and interpersonal problems. My career has focussed largely on complex difficulties, but at Lucy’s Place CIC I am keen to work with anyone that wants gain a better understanding, to make a change in their lives for the better, improve their wellbeing and sense of self.
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Photo of Amy Dane, Psychologist, MA, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Amy Dane
Psychologist, MA, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Whether you want to talk things through, understand yourself or navigate change - I offer a safe, warm space when you can do this important emotional work. I can help you work out what you need and build the skills and resources to get there. Starting therapy is a risk and can feel vulnerable - I know and respect this deeply. Some people like to have clear goals and others prefer a looser space to talk - I can work either way. You may also have experiences of therapy you have liked, or would prefer to avoid. In our sessions, I can help you think about the difficulties, complexities and changes you need to think about.
Whether you want to talk things through, understand yourself or navigate change - I offer a safe, warm space when you can do this important emotional work. I can help you work out what you need and build the skills and resources to get there. Starting therapy is a risk and can feel vulnerable - I know and respect this deeply. Some people like to have clear goals and others prefer a looser space to talk - I can work either way. You may also have experiences of therapy you have liked, or would prefer to avoid. In our sessions, I can help you think about the difficulties, complexities and changes you need to think about.
01768 807516 View 01768 807516
Photo of Allison Ridley, Psychologist, MA, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Allison Ridley
Psychologist, MA, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
You may be considering therapy to address specific difficulties such as depression, the impact of trauma, or difficulties in relationships with others, or you may have a wish for personal growth. Therapy recognises the importance of our experiences and our relationships or contact with others and our efforts to manage these. It offers the opportunity to gain an understanding of ourselves, of how we think, feel, behaviour & relate (including with ourselves) & consider change. After almost 30 years of working as a therapist in the NHS I moved into independent practice.
You may be considering therapy to address specific difficulties such as depression, the impact of trauma, or difficulties in relationships with others, or you may have a wish for personal growth. Therapy recognises the importance of our experiences and our relationships or contact with others and our efforts to manage these. It offers the opportunity to gain an understanding of ourselves, of how we think, feel, behaviour & relate (including with ourselves) & consider change. After almost 30 years of working as a therapist in the NHS I moved into independent practice.
0131 381 0083 View 0131 381 0083
Photo of Suzanne McNaughton - integration counselling & psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, MRes, MBABCP
integration counselling & psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MRes, MBABCP
Do you feel stuck in a particular cycle that is impacting your life and needs to change? Does regulating emotions seem impossible?thinking negatively? have difficultly trusting others or doubt yourself?..Our hope is to offer you the tools, techniques and the inspiration you need towards improving your wellbeing, and encouraging personal growth. Whether you would like some help with anger, anxiety, addiction, phobias, to improve your mood, process trauma or improve your self-esteem. Together we can work collaboratively to help you to make lasting changes which will allow you to improve your outlook and live life to the fullest.
Do you feel stuck in a particular cycle that is impacting your life and needs to change? Does regulating emotions seem impossible?thinking negatively? have difficultly trusting others or doubt yourself?..Our hope is to offer you the tools, techniques and the inspiration you need towards improving your wellbeing, and encouraging personal growth. Whether you would like some help with anger, anxiety, addiction, phobias, to improve your mood, process trauma or improve your self-esteem. Together we can work collaboratively to help you to make lasting changes which will allow you to improve your outlook and live life to the fullest.
07723 923797 View 07723 923797
Photo of Dr Hannah Ranaldi, Psychologist, HCPC - Health Psych.
Dr Hannah Ranaldi
Psychologist, HCPC - Health Psych.
5 Endorsed
Are you looking to adapt, cope, and manage changes in your health and wellbeing? As a Health Psychologist, I specialise in working with women’s health (e.g., menopause and menstrual conditions), stress and burnout, chronic pain, and managing long-term conditions (e.g., heart conditions, diabetes, chronic fatigue, long Covid, and gut health). Psychological approaches can help manage and reduce symptom severity and help improve overall quality of life, so that you feel less restricted by your health and able to start living a rich and meaningful life. My clients often arrive feeling stuck, or depressed, anxious, and overwhelmed.
Are you looking to adapt, cope, and manage changes in your health and wellbeing? As a Health Psychologist, I specialise in working with women’s health (e.g., menopause and menstrual conditions), stress and burnout, chronic pain, and managing long-term conditions (e.g., heart conditions, diabetes, chronic fatigue, long Covid, and gut health). Psychological approaches can help manage and reduce symptom severity and help improve overall quality of life, so that you feel less restricted by your health and able to start living a rich and meaningful life. My clients often arrive feeling stuck, or depressed, anxious, and overwhelmed.
0131 381 1736 View 0131 381 1736
Photo of Kirti Lawrence, Psychotherapist, ACP
Kirti Lawrence
Psychotherapist, ACP
1 Endorsed
Having worked across sectors with children and families such as Early Years, Education, Health, Social Work and the Third Sector for over 24 years, I offer highly specialized trauma-focused, attachment-based psychotherapy treatment to children (pre-school to 12 years) and adolescents (12 to 19 years) and young adults (19 to 25 years) with moderate to severe mental health difficulties. Additionally, I have over 13 years’ experience in working with children and young people who are looked after and accommodated.
Having worked across sectors with children and families such as Early Years, Education, Health, Social Work and the Third Sector for over 24 years, I offer highly specialized trauma-focused, attachment-based psychotherapy treatment to children (pre-school to 12 years) and adolescents (12 to 19 years) and young adults (19 to 25 years) with moderate to severe mental health difficulties. Additionally, I have over 13 years’ experience in working with children and young people who are looked after and accommodated.
0131 381 5844 View 0131 381 5844
Photo of Louise Duffy, Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Louise Duffy
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 30 years experience of working with adults and with young people (12-18) and their families. I have tended to specialise in complex difficulties including self-harm, depression, stress and anxiety, eating disorders, trauma, problems with overwhelming emotions and difficulties in relationships. I have worked with many people with co-occurring autism and mental health difficulties and my work includes post diagnostic support. However I am open to working with any emotional or behavioural problems which are getting in the way of someone doing the things they want to in life.
I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 30 years experience of working with adults and with young people (12-18) and their families. I have tended to specialise in complex difficulties including self-harm, depression, stress and anxiety, eating disorders, trauma, problems with overwhelming emotions and difficulties in relationships. I have worked with many people with co-occurring autism and mental health difficulties and my work includes post diagnostic support. However I am open to working with any emotional or behavioural problems which are getting in the way of someone doing the things they want to in life.
0131 381 5339 View 0131 381 5339
Photo of Lynn Artesse, Counsellor, MBACP
Lynn Artesse
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
Individual & Couples Counselling & Clinical Supervision. “Life doesn’t get better by chance, it gets better by change”. At times we can all feel anxious or uncertain of our future. Sometimes we need to make changes in order to improve our situation. However, the prospect of change can feel overwhelming, leaving us feeling disconnected, isolated and lonely. Hearing your thoughts out loud, with a professional, can be an opportunity to gain some clarity and begin the process of change. I truly believe that a small change in the way we think can make a big difference to the way we feel.
Individual & Couples Counselling & Clinical Supervision. “Life doesn’t get better by chance, it gets better by change”. At times we can all feel anxious or uncertain of our future. Sometimes we need to make changes in order to improve our situation. However, the prospect of change can feel overwhelming, leaving us feeling disconnected, isolated and lonely. Hearing your thoughts out loud, with a professional, can be an opportunity to gain some clarity and begin the process of change. I truly believe that a small change in the way we think can make a big difference to the way we feel.
0131 510 3667 View 0131 510 3667
Photo of Lynn Hogarth, Counsellor, PsychD, MNCPS Acc.
Lynn Hogarth
Counsellor, PsychD, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am an experienced Counsellor/Psychotherapist , Autism & Trauma Informed Practitioner in Midlothian. I offer private therapy for adults on a short, medium, long term basis. I have a welcoming and confidential space where you will be able to discuss your feelings, emotions and difficulties. You will be heard, valued and understood. Together we can work towards changes you desire in a non judgemental approach. The approach I will use will depend on the individual client. I may combine and adapt elements of various approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy which is defined to help with negative patterns of thoughts/behaviours.
I am an experienced Counsellor/Psychotherapist , Autism & Trauma Informed Practitioner in Midlothian. I offer private therapy for adults on a short, medium, long term basis. I have a welcoming and confidential space where you will be able to discuss your feelings, emotions and difficulties. You will be heard, valued and understood. Together we can work towards changes you desire in a non judgemental approach. The approach I will use will depend on the individual client. I may combine and adapt elements of various approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy which is defined to help with negative patterns of thoughts/behaviours.
01875 440621 View 01875 440621
Photo of Margot Williamson, Counsellor, BACP
Margot Williamson
Counsellor, BACP
Serves Area
Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming — whether it’s grief, profound change, or the quiet pain and uncertainty of feeling stuck in repeating patterns. I work with adults during those moments when coping no longer feels enough, and there’s a growing sense that change is needed — but it’s unclear how to move forward.
Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming — whether it’s grief, profound change, or the quiet pain and uncertainty of feeling stuck in repeating patterns. I work with adults during those moments when coping no longer feels enough, and there’s a growing sense that change is needed — but it’s unclear how to move forward.
0131 381 5746 View 0131 381 5746
Photo of Marie Finlay, Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Marie Finlay
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, self-doubt, or life’s daily pressures? I support adults, young people and children to manage anxiety, build resilience, and regain a sense of control in their lives. Avoidant behaviours such as withdrawal, procrastination, or overreliance on screens often mask deeper emotional distress. Through a compassionate and practical approach, I help clients uncover these patterns, develop healthier coping strategies, and build lasting confidence.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, self-doubt, or life’s daily pressures? I support adults, young people and children to manage anxiety, build resilience, and regain a sense of control in their lives. Avoidant behaviours such as withdrawal, procrastination, or overreliance on screens often mask deeper emotional distress. Through a compassionate and practical approach, I help clients uncover these patterns, develop healthier coping strategies, and build lasting confidence.
01578 517323 View 01578 517323
Photo of Wendy Chan - Wendy Chan - East Lothian Counselling and Therapy, Counsellor, MBACP
Wendy Chan - East Lothian Counselling and Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I’m a compassionate, supportive and empathic counsellor who is easy to talk to and experienced in helping people make a positive difference to their lives. You may be struggling with feelings of anxiety, stress or sadness or thinking you’re never good enough. Maybe there's difficult dynamics at home or work that is causing you stress and you are struggling to cope. I create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can bring what's on your mind and be yourself. Through personalised support, I believe everyone is capable of making positive changes, build connection with others and be empowered towards living the life they want to live.
I’m a compassionate, supportive and empathic counsellor who is easy to talk to and experienced in helping people make a positive difference to their lives. You may be struggling with feelings of anxiety, stress or sadness or thinking you’re never good enough. Maybe there's difficult dynamics at home or work that is causing you stress and you are struggling to cope. I create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can bring what's on your mind and be yourself. Through personalised support, I believe everyone is capable of making positive changes, build connection with others and be empowered towards living the life they want to live.
01620 672949 View 01620 672949
Photo of Malgorzata Camyla Sikora, Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Malgorzata Camyla Sikora
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Online Only
Do you want to understand what makes you-you and why you see the world the way you do? Do you want to increase confidence, learn how to cope with triggers and people without becoming reactive? Do you want to handle conflicts better and improve communication with people in your life? Do you feel anxious or easily overwhelmed and want to understand why and know what to do about it? No session or client is the same, and I embrace and encourage individuality. When we are accepted, we can tackle difficulties and explore complicated feelings. I want to offer you my full acceptance and a safe space to make the changes you want.
Do you want to understand what makes you-you and why you see the world the way you do? Do you want to increase confidence, learn how to cope with triggers and people without becoming reactive? Do you want to handle conflicts better and improve communication with people in your life? Do you feel anxious or easily overwhelmed and want to understand why and know what to do about it? No session or client is the same, and I embrace and encourage individuality. When we are accepted, we can tackle difficulties and explore complicated feelings. I want to offer you my full acceptance and a safe space to make the changes you want.
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Photo of Anne Henderson, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Anne Henderson
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
I hope to offer you a warm welcome to my therapy room. There you will find a comfortable chair with a view of the beach. I welcome clients of all ages 16 years upwards. You may have a specific issue you wish to explore, or come to find a safe space to look more deeply at things that have been troubling you. Life can throw up all kinds of curve balls that can impact in many ways. Coming to talk together can help to make sense out of what can be confusing situations, relationships and feelings. I will meet you with acceptance and give you space and time to explore your options and support your change.
I hope to offer you a warm welcome to my therapy room. There you will find a comfortable chair with a view of the beach. I welcome clients of all ages 16 years upwards. You may have a specific issue you wish to explore, or come to find a safe space to look more deeply at things that have been troubling you. Life can throw up all kinds of curve balls that can impact in many ways. Coming to talk together can help to make sense out of what can be confusing situations, relationships and feelings. I will meet you with acceptance and give you space and time to explore your options and support your change.
01620 678807 View 01620 678807

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Isabel Crozier, Psychotherapist, BACP
Isabel Crozier
Psychotherapist, BACP
2 Endorsed
I have always been profoundly curious about others and aim to foster that curiosity in my clients. I am interested in the ways that our families, culture and environment shape us and in the ways in which people create meaning in their lives. I have found again and again that psychotherapy can help people understand themselves more deeply and bring about changes which lead to more fulfilled and interesting ways of living, as well as to an improved understanding of themselves in relationship with others. I am able to work on both a short and long term basis, with a preference for longer term work.
I have always been profoundly curious about others and aim to foster that curiosity in my clients. I am interested in the ways that our families, culture and environment shape us and in the ways in which people create meaning in their lives. I have found again and again that psychotherapy can help people understand themselves more deeply and bring about changes which lead to more fulfilled and interesting ways of living, as well as to an improved understanding of themselves in relationship with others. I am able to work on both a short and long term basis, with a preference for longer term work.
0131 510 4056 View 0131 510 4056
Photo of Sally Wright - Sally Counselling and Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, PMCOSCA
Sally Counselling and Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, PMCOSCA
1 Endorsed
Edinburgh EH12
Do you find yourself stuck in painful patterns—either in your relationship or within yourself? Perhaps you and your partner keep having the same arguments, leaving you feeling unheard or distant. Or maybe you’re struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, or emotions that feel hard to manage. Whether you come to therapy alone or with a partner, our sessions can be a place to slow down, understand what’s going on, and start feeling more connected—to yourself and the people around you.
Do you find yourself stuck in painful patterns—either in your relationship or within yourself? Perhaps you and your partner keep having the same arguments, leaving you feeling unheard or distant. Or maybe you’re struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, or emotions that feel hard to manage. Whether you come to therapy alone or with a partner, our sessions can be a place to slow down, understand what’s going on, and start feeling more connected—to yourself and the people around you.
0131 510 3979 View 0131 510 3979
Female Counsellors

Does it matter what gender my therapist is?

In general, there is no relationship between a therapist’s gender and their efficacy. Some clients, however, prefer to see therapists of a particular gender, whether due to their own past experiences with men and women, or because they feel more comfortable with a therapist of their own gender due to shared life experiences or perspectives. Considering what one wants to address in therapy can help someone determine whether their therapist’s gender may matter or improve their therapeutic experience. The most important consideration is that a client is able to build a trusting relationship with their therapist.

Should I see a female therapist?

Many people—not just women—prefer to see a female therapist. For women, this could be because they believe that they will be able to better connect with a woman, and that a female therapist will be able to relate to their specific challenges and personal issues. It may be particularly beneficial for women to see a female therapist, for example, for gender-specific issues, such as sexism in the workplace, relationship issues, and gender roles. The most important factor in therapy is the client-therapist connection, and a therapist's gender as well as many other factors may play an important role in this.

Do therapists get specific training to help with women’s concerns?

Therapists are trained to provide care to clients of any gender. However, some therapists may pursue additional training in feminist therapy, gender-specific issues, or women’s mental health. Female clients may wish to ask prospective therapists whether they have received specific training in the client’s primary area(s) of concern, or whether they have worked extensively with women on issues similar to their own.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience in treating women?

It’s OK—even encouraged!—to ask a therapist directly whether and how often they have treated women in the past, or whether they have treated women dealing with the client’s most prominent concern(s). Competent therapists will be happy to share their educational background, preferred treatment modalities, and prior client experience to help an individual find the therapist best suited to their needs.