Counselling in Highland

Hi, I'm Pamela and if you are struggling to find meaning in life right now, I'm here to work with you to find the answers you need. Perhaps you have experienced loss, trauma or are trying to navigate a period of change in your life. Bereavement, the end of a relationship, loss of health or loss of employment may have left you unable to find purpose in the present and unable to envision a meaningful future. Or perhaps something from your past is still haunting you. At times like these it can be difficult to imagine a meaningful future and you might feel stuck, undervalued, unheard or just unsure how you can carry on. I'm here to help
Hi, I'm Pamela and if you are struggling to find meaning in life right now, I'm here to work with you to find the answers you need. Perhaps you have experienced loss, trauma or are trying to navigate a period of change in your life. Bereavement, the end of a relationship, loss of health or loss of employment may have left you unable to find purpose in the present and unable to envision a meaningful future. Or perhaps something from your past is still haunting you. At times like these it can be difficult to imagine a meaningful future and you might feel stuck, undervalued, unheard or just unsure how you can carry on. I'm here to help

Hello, my name is Elaine and I am a Trauma therapist, specialising in treating Complex PTSD, and working with long-term, chronic health conditions. I have clinical experience working within an specialist NHS service treating complex and chronic health issues, such as: CFS/ME, Fibromyalgia, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and have also designed and implemented group therapy programmes within the NHS.
Within my team at Birch Therapy Clinic we also have CBT specialists & Clinical Psychologists.
Hello, my name is Elaine and I am a Trauma therapist, specialising in treating Complex PTSD, and working with long-term, chronic health conditions. I have clinical experience working within an specialist NHS service treating complex and chronic health issues, such as: CFS/ME, Fibromyalgia, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and have also designed and implemented group therapy programmes within the NHS.
Within my team at Birch Therapy Clinic we also have CBT specialists & Clinical Psychologists.

For those who are struggling with their eating, weight, shape or appearance, I help and specialise in psychological restoration of those who have eating disorders or disordered eating. As a potential client, you may have high levels of anxiety, perfectionism, OCD, depression and body dysmorphia amongst other issues. You may be very tired with people telling you to eat more, or less. You may notice that your normal level of living is impaired in a variety of ways. You want change but don't know where to start.
For those who are struggling with their eating, weight, shape or appearance, I help and specialise in psychological restoration of those who have eating disorders or disordered eating. As a potential client, you may have high levels of anxiety, perfectionism, OCD, depression and body dysmorphia amongst other issues. You may be very tired with people telling you to eat more, or less. You may notice that your normal level of living is impaired in a variety of ways. You want change but don't know where to start.

I am passionate about providing a caring and safe space where you can express and explore your issues in a non judgmental setting. By making room for understanding and compassion, the sessions can help you process emotions, recognise solutions and gain confidence.
The Person Centred Approach is based on a deep respect for the person and the belief that the relationship between the counsellor and the client is of primary importance. It is the client who knows their issue and has the capacity within the safety of a therapeutic relationship to begin a healing process.
I would be delighted to meet you.
I am passionate about providing a caring and safe space where you can express and explore your issues in a non judgmental setting. By making room for understanding and compassion, the sessions can help you process emotions, recognise solutions and gain confidence.
The Person Centred Approach is based on a deep respect for the person and the belief that the relationship between the counsellor and the client is of primary importance. It is the client who knows their issue and has the capacity within the safety of a therapeutic relationship to begin a healing process.
I would be delighted to meet you.

I am an experienced counsellor and psychotherapist. My approach to psychotherapy is deeply rooted in the humanistic values of person-centred and emotion-focused modalities. I provide a safe environment for each client to explore their concerns by offering acceptance, respect, and empathy. I believe one of the key purposes of psychotherapy is to increase each client’s self-awareness, which consequently aids personal growth and the fulfilment of innate potential. I am also passionate about the current findings of interpersonal neurobiology (IPNB) and its application to psychotherapy.
I am an experienced counsellor and psychotherapist. My approach to psychotherapy is deeply rooted in the humanistic values of person-centred and emotion-focused modalities. I provide a safe environment for each client to explore their concerns by offering acceptance, respect, and empathy. I believe one of the key purposes of psychotherapy is to increase each client’s self-awareness, which consequently aids personal growth and the fulfilment of innate potential. I am also passionate about the current findings of interpersonal neurobiology (IPNB) and its application to psychotherapy.

I specialize in supporting neurodivergent individuals who are navigating the effects of difficult or overwhelming life experiences, including complex trauma. I help my clients manage the impact on their thoughts, emotions, and body—addressing anxiety, low mood, hypervigilance, self-criticism, relationship struggles, and attachment patterns. Many people I work with navigate the intersection of Autism, ADHD, AuDHD and adversity, addressing challenges like sensory overwhelm, burnout, masking, identity struggles, social anxiety, relationship difficulties, and the impact of bullying, rejection, or discrimination.
I specialize in supporting neurodivergent individuals who are navigating the effects of difficult or overwhelming life experiences, including complex trauma. I help my clients manage the impact on their thoughts, emotions, and body—addressing anxiety, low mood, hypervigilance, self-criticism, relationship struggles, and attachment patterns. Many people I work with navigate the intersection of Autism, ADHD, AuDHD and adversity, addressing challenges like sensory overwhelm, burnout, masking, identity struggles, social anxiety, relationship difficulties, and the impact of bullying, rejection, or discrimination.

I work with both individuals and Couples to support their movement towards their desired outcomes and provide a safe, non-judgmental and empathic space for clients to discuss their worries. My aim is to support my clients with my therapeutic and blended approach using my 2 areas of expertise, Counselling, and Peter Hess Sound massage in my 90 min sessions to work together with my clients to help foster a deeper sense of calm, connection and communication. My space is one of inclusivity, relishing in the individuality of each client and their experiences. I pride myself on offering a warm, caring environment for my clients
I work with both individuals and Couples to support their movement towards their desired outcomes and provide a safe, non-judgmental and empathic space for clients to discuss their worries. My aim is to support my clients with my therapeutic and blended approach using my 2 areas of expertise, Counselling, and Peter Hess Sound massage in my 90 min sessions to work together with my clients to help foster a deeper sense of calm, connection and communication. My space is one of inclusivity, relishing in the individuality of each client and their experiences. I pride myself on offering a warm, caring environment for my clients

Hi, my name is Susan. Do you struggle with anxiety, stress, intrusive thoughts, reliving the past, or anxiety about the future? Maybe you want to improve your confidence or find self-acceptance? I can support you to find a path to a new way of life. I provide confidential counselling on a face to face, video/online, telephone or email basis, tailored to your personal needs. Give me a call to arrange a free 30 minute telephone consultation to get a feel of whether we would work well together and ask me any questions you may have. I am based in Clachnaharry, Inverness.
Hi, my name is Susan. Do you struggle with anxiety, stress, intrusive thoughts, reliving the past, or anxiety about the future? Maybe you want to improve your confidence or find self-acceptance? I can support you to find a path to a new way of life. I provide confidential counselling on a face to face, video/online, telephone or email basis, tailored to your personal needs. Give me a call to arrange a free 30 minute telephone consultation to get a feel of whether we would work well together and ask me any questions you may have. I am based in Clachnaharry, Inverness.

Really looking at your life and the situation you are in, takes courage. Perhaps life feels almost unbearable right now and you are at a loss as to how to move forward. Coming to counselling can be a big step, but I am here to accompany you, to offer you my wholehearted support in finding a way through what is difficult in your life at the moment. Therapy can help you to transform your suffering into an opportunity for personal growth and life expansion. Having someone who listens deeply to you, someone who doesn't judge but accepts you unconditionally, can help you gain clarity and a new perspective on your situation.
Really looking at your life and the situation you are in, takes courage. Perhaps life feels almost unbearable right now and you are at a loss as to how to move forward. Coming to counselling can be a big step, but I am here to accompany you, to offer you my wholehearted support in finding a way through what is difficult in your life at the moment. Therapy can help you to transform your suffering into an opportunity for personal growth and life expansion. Having someone who listens deeply to you, someone who doesn't judge but accepts you unconditionally, can help you gain clarity and a new perspective on your situation.

Hi, I am a person-centred trained qualified counsellor. I believe in giving my clients a warm, inviting and safe space in which you can bring any issues you choose to explore. I am not going to tell you how to live your life or judge you, but help you find a balance that works best for you through exploration of the issues you bring to each session. I have a lot of life and client experience that enables me to understand and fully empathise with many situations. Many people need help with coping with life at some point.
Hi, I am a person-centred trained qualified counsellor. I believe in giving my clients a warm, inviting and safe space in which you can bring any issues you choose to explore. I am not going to tell you how to live your life or judge you, but help you find a balance that works best for you through exploration of the issues you bring to each session. I have a lot of life and client experience that enables me to understand and fully empathise with many situations. Many people need help with coping with life at some point.
If you are experiencing work related stress, or if you have experienced a traumatic event or series of events which are impacting on your ability to function in and out of work and you wish to regain some balance and control then my experience and skill set will be helpful.
In my NHS role I have facilitated successful groups where staff members have worked on a distressing episode without fully disclosing what they are working on to the rest of the group.
If you are experiencing work related stress, or if you have experienced a traumatic event or series of events which are impacting on your ability to function in and out of work and you wish to regain some balance and control then my experience and skill set will be helpful.
In my NHS role I have facilitated successful groups where staff members have worked on a distressing episode without fully disclosing what they are working on to the rest of the group.

No new clients until Oct 2025
Whatever the issues you’re facing right now, if they’re clouding your day-to-day life and you want change, we can work together. Even when things seem impossible or bleak, counselling conversations can help you feel better, reconnect with yourself and find hopeful ways forward. I offer a space and an opportunity to explore whatever is going on or holding you back from the life you want, giving you time to think through muddled thoughts and confusing feelings. Our conversations will help you identify and begin to meet your emotional needs and wants, freeing you to live your life more on your own terms.
No new clients until Oct 2025
Whatever the issues you’re facing right now, if they’re clouding your day-to-day life and you want change, we can work together. Even when things seem impossible or bleak, counselling conversations can help you feel better, reconnect with yourself and find hopeful ways forward. I offer a space and an opportunity to explore whatever is going on or holding you back from the life you want, giving you time to think through muddled thoughts and confusing feelings. Our conversations will help you identify and begin to meet your emotional needs and wants, freeing you to live your life more on your own terms.

I am originally from the USA, where I have experience working with adults, families, and groups in inpatient and outpatient settings. My passions lie in working with people impacted by trauma, attachment disorders, relational distress, addiction, low mood, anxiety, and general unhappiness. I often work alongside my clients to figure out why they feel the way they do and identify their needs based on what we discover. I use modalities like CBT, DBT, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and EMDR to understand and heal underlying causes of external problems.
I am originally from the USA, where I have experience working with adults, families, and groups in inpatient and outpatient settings. My passions lie in working with people impacted by trauma, attachment disorders, relational distress, addiction, low mood, anxiety, and general unhappiness. I often work alongside my clients to figure out why they feel the way they do and identify their needs based on what we discover. I use modalities like CBT, DBT, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and EMDR to understand and heal underlying causes of external problems.

I understand that life can become difficult and stressful. Some situations can feel overwhelming. I'm here to listen and to start you on the path to good mental health. Counselling provides a regular time and space for you to talk about your troubles and explore difficult feelings in an environment that is dependable, free from intrusion and confidential. Your viewpoint will always be respected. Counselling can support you to deal with specific problems, cope with a crisis, improve your relationships, or develop better ways of living. You can gain insight into your feelings and behaviour and make positive changes for mental health
I understand that life can become difficult and stressful. Some situations can feel overwhelming. I'm here to listen and to start you on the path to good mental health. Counselling provides a regular time and space for you to talk about your troubles and explore difficult feelings in an environment that is dependable, free from intrusion and confidential. Your viewpoint will always be respected. Counselling can support you to deal with specific problems, cope with a crisis, improve your relationships, or develop better ways of living. You can gain insight into your feelings and behaviour and make positive changes for mental health

People seek therapy for many different reasons. Sometimes, it’s to process a life-altering event; other times, it’s to reflect more deeply on past or present experiences. Therapy provides a space to make sense of what has happened, heal from trauma, and gain a deeper understanding of oneself. Whether you’re navigating a difficult transition, recovering from emotional wounds, or simply seeking clarity, therapy can support you in finding balance and resilience. I'm an Art Therapist with a broad approach to art within therapy. Sometimes words don't fit, or are hard to find, I can offer you a different experience of expression.
People seek therapy for many different reasons. Sometimes, it’s to process a life-altering event; other times, it’s to reflect more deeply on past or present experiences. Therapy provides a space to make sense of what has happened, heal from trauma, and gain a deeper understanding of oneself. Whether you’re navigating a difficult transition, recovering from emotional wounds, or simply seeking clarity, therapy can support you in finding balance and resilience. I'm an Art Therapist with a broad approach to art within therapy. Sometimes words don't fit, or are hard to find, I can offer you a different experience of expression.

Lots of us face challenging situations at some stage in our lives, which can be difficult to manage. It's not always easy or appropriate to talk with family or friends and sometimes we worry that bringing something old and / or hidden up to the surface will cause more problems. I offer a confidential and non-judgemental space where we can work together to help you to develop insight and understanding by exploring how your present situation might be impacted by past experiences and people from your past and / or present.
Lots of us face challenging situations at some stage in our lives, which can be difficult to manage. It's not always easy or appropriate to talk with family or friends and sometimes we worry that bringing something old and / or hidden up to the surface will cause more problems. I offer a confidential and non-judgemental space where we can work together to help you to develop insight and understanding by exploring how your present situation might be impacted by past experiences and people from your past and / or present.

As a Clinical Psychologist, I’m trained in a number of evidence-based therapies. This means I will tailor our work together to suit your goals, preferences, and what feels most helpful to you. My aim is to offer a calm, safe and respectful space where you can feel heard and supported.
I’m committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive space for all clients. I recognise that factors like race, gender, disability, sexuality, neurodiversity, and culture can interact with our mental health. My practice is affirming, trauma-informed, and respectful of your identity and lived experience.
As a Clinical Psychologist, I’m trained in a number of evidence-based therapies. This means I will tailor our work together to suit your goals, preferences, and what feels most helpful to you. My aim is to offer a calm, safe and respectful space where you can feel heard and supported.
I’m committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive space for all clients. I recognise that factors like race, gender, disability, sexuality, neurodiversity, and culture can interact with our mental health. My practice is affirming, trauma-informed, and respectful of your identity and lived experience.

Hi, I'm Dr David Cunningham, an experienced HCPC-registered Chartered Counselling Psychologist and Clinical Director of Counselling Psychology Scotland. I am committed to offering evidence-based psychological support to help you navigate life’s challenges. With over six years of experience in third-sector organisations and the NHS, I have helped clients navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, chronic pain, trauma, bereavement, cancer, addiction, suicidal thoughts, and gender identity issues. My approach focuses on building a trusting therapeutic relationship by integrating a person-centred approach and cognitive therapy.
Hi, I'm Dr David Cunningham, an experienced HCPC-registered Chartered Counselling Psychologist and Clinical Director of Counselling Psychology Scotland. I am committed to offering evidence-based psychological support to help you navigate life’s challenges. With over six years of experience in third-sector organisations and the NHS, I have helped clients navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, chronic pain, trauma, bereavement, cancer, addiction, suicidal thoughts, and gender identity issues. My approach focuses on building a trusting therapeutic relationship by integrating a person-centred approach and cognitive therapy.

Life is full of ups and downs. There are times it can feel like an endless uphill battle with little reprieve. Maybe you are noticing an increase in feeling anxious, depressed, stressed or overwhelmed. Perhaps you are having issues at work, your relationships, low self esteem or the loss of a loved one. If you have experienced childhood or adult trauma(s) there may be painful memories, flashbacks or nightmares disrupting your life, even many years after the event. I work with most mental health concerns but specialise in trauma, anxiety, dissociation, fertility issues, baby loss and low self esteem. I work exclusively online.
Life is full of ups and downs. There are times it can feel like an endless uphill battle with little reprieve. Maybe you are noticing an increase in feeling anxious, depressed, stressed or overwhelmed. Perhaps you are having issues at work, your relationships, low self esteem or the loss of a loved one. If you have experienced childhood or adult trauma(s) there may be painful memories, flashbacks or nightmares disrupting your life, even many years after the event. I work with most mental health concerns but specialise in trauma, anxiety, dissociation, fertility issues, baby loss and low self esteem. I work exclusively online.

I am an accredited therapist . And I offer sessions online . My work is with psychosexual trauma and complusive sexual behaviours, and I use the adult attachment assessment My work is with Couples and indiviudals aged 18 years upwards .I work with people have been history of having been in care or adopted ; divorcing couples; I work with kink, bdsm life styles ; survivor of abuse; I began were work in 1990 firstly has nurse, then in social work and midway as psychosexual threapist I am police checked. I work within a sex postive framework and I provide clinical supervision.
I am an accredited therapist . And I offer sessions online . My work is with psychosexual trauma and complusive sexual behaviours, and I use the adult attachment assessment My work is with Couples and indiviudals aged 18 years upwards .I work with people have been history of having been in care or adopted ; divorcing couples; I work with kink, bdsm life styles ; survivor of abuse; I began were work in 1990 firstly has nurse, then in social work and midway as psychosexual threapist I am police checked. I work within a sex postive framework and I provide clinical supervision.
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Highland
70+
Average cost per session
£60
Counsellors in Highland who prioritize treating:
86% | Anxiety |
82% | Self Esteem |
78% | Depression |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | Stress |
71% | Relationship Issues |
62% | Bereavement |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
71% | Aviva |
57% | AXA PPP |
43% | Bupa |
How Counsellors in Highland see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
90% | Female | |
9% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Highland?
Search for nearby therapists or counsellors by inputting your city, postcode, or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or postcode into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
Counsellors and Psychotherapists listed in the directory are members of the main professional associations, mainly the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP). Most Psychologists in the directory are accredited members of the British Psychological Society (BPS) and/or are registered in the Health and Care Professions Council (HPCP).
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for psychotherapists and counsellors in the UK, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for psychotherapists and counsellors in the UK, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counsellor?
Counsellors, psychotherapists and psychologists can all provide counselling or talking therapy and have credentials and experience that enable them to do so in the UK. Psychologists have earned a degree in psychology and many are members of the British Psychological Society (BPS) and have completed a postgraduate qualification in a specialism. Counsellors and Psychotherapists are not required to have a psychology degree, but to belong to a professional organisation such as the BACP or UKCP, they are required to have completed a training course as well as clinical and supervision hours.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the UK could be between £30 - £60 when seeing a counsellor and £60 - £150 and up when seeing a clinical psychologist. If you have private insurance, your plan may cover some if not all of your sessions. You should contact your insurance provider to determine if they provide coverage for therapy sessions and to determine what, if any, requirements they might have in order for your sessions to be covered, such as a referral from your GP or medical specialist.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. The NHS Talking therapies programme offers free of charge counselling for common mental health problems like anxiety and depression. The service is available to anyone registered with a GP, though you do not necessarily need to be referred by your GP and can refer yourself directly to a Talking therapies service. The service will provide different solutions, including group and individual therapy, for a limited number of sessions which are generally up to six.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. The NHS Talking therapies programme offers free of charge counselling for common mental health problems like anxiety and depression. The service is available to anyone registered with a GP, though you do not necessarily need to be referred by your GP and can refer yourself directly to a Talking therapies service. The service will provide different solutions, including group and individual therapy, for a limited number of sessions which are generally up to six.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your postcode.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Therapists who are part of a professional organisation such as the BACP, the UKCP, or BPS are bound by an ethical framework that requires them to uphold a confidentiality agreement. Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship and only under specific circumstances, such as when there has been participation in a criminal act or act of terror, or if there is potential or known harm to the client or others, will a therapist be obligated to break the agreement. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed during the initial consultation.