Adoption Counselling in Midlothian

Photo of Amy Caffrey Mbacp, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Amy Caffrey Mbacp
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Anxiety, stress and low mood can leave us feeling overwhelmed and difficult to know how to manage this both in our personal and professional lives. Talking to a therapist can be quite daunting. However, I truly believe talking through a problem can really help. I can help you to identify and understand issues you are struggling with and together we can come up with a plan on how to help you overcome these. I have vast experience in mental health and some of my most recent work has been working through work related dress, neurodiversity, social anxiety and gender dysphoria.
Anxiety, stress and low mood can leave us feeling overwhelmed and difficult to know how to manage this both in our personal and professional lives. Talking to a therapist can be quite daunting. However, I truly believe talking through a problem can really help. I can help you to identify and understand issues you are struggling with and together we can come up with a plan on how to help you overcome these. I have vast experience in mental health and some of my most recent work has been working through work related dress, neurodiversity, social anxiety and gender dysphoria.
01875 444628 View 01875 444628
Photo of Kelly Combe, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Kelly Combe
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Bilston EH25
I believe that it's important for an individual to find the right counsellor, as one counsellors method may not suit all. I therefore offer my initial consultation at a reduced rate. The initial consultation is not only an opportunity for the counsellors to find out more about the client but also for the client to find out more about the counsellor, giving both the opportunity to discover if a suitable rapport can be built, creating an appropriate environment for counselling to take place.
I believe that it's important for an individual to find the right counsellor, as one counsellors method may not suit all. I therefore offer my initial consultation at a reduced rate. The initial consultation is not only an opportunity for the counsellors to find out more about the client but also for the client to find out more about the counsellor, giving both the opportunity to discover if a suitable rapport can be built, creating an appropriate environment for counselling to take place.
01968 700122 View 01968 700122
Photo of Lesley Murray, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Lesley Murray
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Dalkeith EH22
Most of us will experience difficulties that we need support and help with. Therapy is one way to get help and involves talking openly and honestly with a sensitive and skilled listener, to agree and work towards meaningful change. It is a relational process, because talking to a professional about our difficulties requires safety and trust, which develops in the context of the therapy relationship. It takes courage to reach out and ask for help, especially when that means talking to a stranger. You don't have to face things on your own.
Most of us will experience difficulties that we need support and help with. Therapy is one way to get help and involves talking openly and honestly with a sensitive and skilled listener, to agree and work towards meaningful change. It is a relational process, because talking to a professional about our difficulties requires safety and trust, which develops in the context of the therapy relationship. It takes courage to reach out and ask for help, especially when that means talking to a stranger. You don't have to face things on your own.
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Photo of Katrina Cummings, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Katrina Cummings
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Dalkeith EH22
Hi, I’m Katrina. I support clients who seek counselling for a range of reasons, including but not limited to, domestic abuse, trauma, low self-esteem, anxiety and burnout. My work is about empowering you, I do not come with a set agenda or any things you ‘should’ do, I provide a space where you can be yourself as you are, free from the judgement and pressures of daily life. Whatever brings you to counselling, I support you to explore and process your experiences, my focus is on providing a supportive and safe relationship in which we can find the way forward that is right for you.
Hi, I’m Katrina. I support clients who seek counselling for a range of reasons, including but not limited to, domestic abuse, trauma, low self-esteem, anxiety and burnout. My work is about empowering you, I do not come with a set agenda or any things you ‘should’ do, I provide a space where you can be yourself as you are, free from the judgement and pressures of daily life. Whatever brings you to counselling, I support you to explore and process your experiences, my focus is on providing a supportive and safe relationship in which we can find the way forward that is right for you.
0131 381 4367 View 0131 381 4367
Photo of Dr Chrissie Wanner, Counsellor, PhD, MNCPS Acc.
Dr Chrissie Wanner
Counsellor, PhD, MNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
Free initial online consultation to discuss your needs and how we might work together. I offer safe, steady, calm, warm, and non-judgemental support to work through current or past difficulties that might feel too big or complex to face alone. I'm happy to work with individuals from all backgrounds and walks of life, either online or in person. I'm also happy to work flexibly around childcare and/or work commitments.
Free initial online consultation to discuss your needs and how we might work together. I offer safe, steady, calm, warm, and non-judgemental support to work through current or past difficulties that might feel too big or complex to face alone. I'm happy to work with individuals from all backgrounds and walks of life, either online or in person. I'm also happy to work flexibly around childcare and/or work commitments.
01578 517317 View 01578 517317

Online Therapists

Photo of Julie Adamson - Sonas Counselling and Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, MUKCP
If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to navigate life changes, relationships, or past experiences, you’re not alone. Many of my clients seek a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their challenges, understand themselves more deeply, and find ways to move forward. Together, we work toward relief from distress, greater clarity, and healthier ways of being helping you feel more confident, connected, and in control of your life.
If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to navigate life changes, relationships, or past experiences, you’re not alone. Many of my clients seek a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their challenges, understand themselves more deeply, and find ways to move forward. Together, we work toward relief from distress, greater clarity, and healthier ways of being helping you feel more confident, connected, and in control of your life.
01575 527035 View 01575 527035
Photo of Allen Jack - Psychological Services, Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Psychological Services
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
People come to see me for a wide variety of reasons and there is no typical client. I see people from all walks of life and with many different issues to address. My aim is to enable clients to express their feelings and explore the issues that affect them in a safe, confidential and comfortable environment. I take a person centred approach and work at the pace dictated by the client.
People come to see me for a wide variety of reasons and there is no typical client. I see people from all walks of life and with many different issues to address. My aim is to enable clients to express their feelings and explore the issues that affect them in a safe, confidential and comfortable environment. I take a person centred approach and work at the pace dictated by the client.
01506 536796 View 01506 536796
Photo of Rachael Cook, Counsellor, MBACP
Rachael Cook
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Glasgow G51
Hello. I’m Rachael, a qualified psychodynamic counsellor and I would love to help you. I specialise in psychodynamic therapy, which looks at how your early life experiences affect your current relationships, feelings and behaviours. Perhaps you recognise patterns in your life that you would like to understand? I work with you using curiosity, empathy and expertise to explore and process these patterns. The aim is to help you gain a better understanding of yourself, so you can make the best choices for you, allowing you to live a more contented life.
Hello. I’m Rachael, a qualified psychodynamic counsellor and I would love to help you. I specialise in psychodynamic therapy, which looks at how your early life experiences affect your current relationships, feelings and behaviours. Perhaps you recognise patterns in your life that you would like to understand? I work with you using curiosity, empathy and expertise to explore and process these patterns. The aim is to help you gain a better understanding of yourself, so you can make the best choices for you, allowing you to live a more contented life.
0141 673 3474 View 0141 673 3474
Photo of Lynda Goudie, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Lynda Goudie
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Dundee DD5
Hi, my name is Lynda and I have a masters (MSc) in Counselling. I also have an MA Hons Degree in English, my passion for stories on the page have also become a passion for individuals who each have their own unique story. Counselling is 50 minutes of time for you, to be heard, supported and understood. Together we can explore problems from the past, anxieties for the future and how these issues are affecting the present. You may have a specific problem or dilemma that is all about now but whatever you bring, can be explored together in a non-judgemental, empathetic and kind way.
Hi, my name is Lynda and I have a masters (MSc) in Counselling. I also have an MA Hons Degree in English, my passion for stories on the page have also become a passion for individuals who each have their own unique story. Counselling is 50 minutes of time for you, to be heard, supported and understood. Together we can explore problems from the past, anxieties for the future and how these issues are affecting the present. You may have a specific problem or dilemma that is all about now but whatever you bring, can be explored together in a non-judgemental, empathetic and kind way.
01382 933111 View 01382 933111
Photo of Liza Irvine, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Liza Irvine
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Airdrie ML6
Life can feel overwhelming at times—whether you’re dealing with anxiety, feeling stuck, going through a life change, or struggling to make sense of your thoughts and emotions. Reaching out can feel difficult, but you don’t have to do it alone. I am a qualified creative arts psychotherapist with over 15 years’ experience supporting adults, adolescents, and children. I offer a calm, safe and supportive space where you can explore what’s going on for you, at your own pace, without judgement.
Life can feel overwhelming at times—whether you’re dealing with anxiety, feeling stuck, going through a life change, or struggling to make sense of your thoughts and emotions. Reaching out can feel difficult, but you don’t have to do it alone. I am a qualified creative arts psychotherapist with over 15 years’ experience supporting adults, adolescents, and children. I offer a calm, safe and supportive space where you can explore what’s going on for you, at your own pace, without judgement.
01698 678842 View 01698 678842
Photo of Angela Peterson, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Angela Peterson
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
I specialise in supporting adults who are feeling overwhelmed. Stress can happen with a sudden change such as bereavement, job loss or relationship ending. It can also build with an increase in responsibilities. There can be times when life is quiet, giving you time to remember difficult past events. These memories can be troubling and make everyday life difficult. Overwhelm can show up as anxiety, low mood, avoiding things you used to enjoy. Perhaps work is too much now, or your sleep pattern may have changed. Effective help is here now.
I specialise in supporting adults who are feeling overwhelmed. Stress can happen with a sudden change such as bereavement, job loss or relationship ending. It can also build with an increase in responsibilities. There can be times when life is quiet, giving you time to remember difficult past events. These memories can be troubling and make everyday life difficult. Overwhelm can show up as anxiety, low mood, avoiding things you used to enjoy. Perhaps work is too much now, or your sleep pattern may have changed. Effective help is here now.
01383 663228 View 01383 663228
Photo of Lynda Jane Lawrence - Beingwell, Counsellor, MBACP
Beingwell
Counsellor, MBACP
Dundee DD2
Hello, My name is Lynda and I am the counsellor within Beingwell, a holistic wellbeing centre in Dundee. Counselling can benefit everyone and aims to address people's life problems in a safe environment where you will be listened to without fear of criticism or judgement. Our relationship is really important to me and I would want to work in a flexible and collaborative way to ensure that you feel comfortable and empowered in our sessions together. I offer short or long term counselling to be decided together.
Hello, My name is Lynda and I am the counsellor within Beingwell, a holistic wellbeing centre in Dundee. Counselling can benefit everyone and aims to address people's life problems in a safe environment where you will be listened to without fear of criticism or judgement. Our relationship is really important to me and I would want to work in a flexible and collaborative way to ensure that you feel comfortable and empowered in our sessions together. I offer short or long term counselling to be decided together.
01382 933266 View 01382 933266
Photo of Geraldine Meechan, Counsellor, MBABCP
Geraldine Meechan
Counsellor, MBABCP
1 Endorsed
Wishaw ML2
As an accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist I also draw on a number of therapeutic approaches to provide an intervention that suits you and supports you to meet your goals. I work with adults and young people providing a safe and non-judgmental space to explore your difficulties. I have worked with clients on with a range of issues including Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Self-esteem, Bereavement and Loss, Relationship problems, Worry/Rumination, Social Anxiety, Anger Management, Life Transitions, Skin Picking and Trictillomania. I am also a level 1-3 trained EMDR practitioner and clinical supervisor
As an accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist I also draw on a number of therapeutic approaches to provide an intervention that suits you and supports you to meet your goals. I work with adults and young people providing a safe and non-judgmental space to explore your difficulties. I have worked with clients on with a range of issues including Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Self-esteem, Bereavement and Loss, Relationship problems, Worry/Rumination, Social Anxiety, Anger Management, Life Transitions, Skin Picking and Trictillomania. I am also a level 1-3 trained EMDR practitioner and clinical supervisor
01555 700609 View 01555 700609
Photo of Monica Ann Julian - LOTUS Mind, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
LOTUS Mind
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
I have been a Counsellor / Psychotherapist / Hypnotherapist for over 25years I specialised in the field addiction for many years. Working within addiction offered a wide and varied opportunity to work and become familiar with many client issues. Clients relying upon substances, use as a coping mechanism, however substance use causes further mental health issues which further complicates their ability to cope. I now work solely within private practice based at home where clients can relax in a confidential informal setting. This allows them time explore their own needs in a time frame which meets their own specific needs.
I have been a Counsellor / Psychotherapist / Hypnotherapist for over 25years I specialised in the field addiction for many years. Working within addiction offered a wide and varied opportunity to work and become familiar with many client issues. Clients relying upon substances, use as a coping mechanism, however substance use causes further mental health issues which further complicates their ability to cope. I now work solely within private practice based at home where clients can relax in a confidential informal setting. This allows them time explore their own needs in a time frame which meets their own specific needs.
0191 917 5944 View 0191 917 5944
Liz Muir
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Glasgow G46
Do you feel like you're not in control of your own life? Maybe you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck or weighed down by past experiences that affect how you think, feel or relate to others. Perhaps you're living with anxiety, trauma, addiction or the long term impact of growing up without consistent care or safety. You might be high functioning on the outside yet struggling internally, wanting greater emotional stability, resilience, clarity and a sense of control over your life. Above all you want meaningful change; not just coping but feeling more grounded, confident and able to move forward and thrive.
Do you feel like you're not in control of your own life? Maybe you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck or weighed down by past experiences that affect how you think, feel or relate to others. Perhaps you're living with anxiety, trauma, addiction or the long term impact of growing up without consistent care or safety. You might be high functioning on the outside yet struggling internally, wanting greater emotional stability, resilience, clarity and a sense of control over your life. Above all you want meaningful change; not just coping but feeling more grounded, confident and able to move forward and thrive.
0141 673 8047 View 0141 673 8047
Photo of Sheila Riach, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Sheila Riach
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Online Only
Life can throw up many challenges which can cause us to feel unsettled, upset and confused. Having someone to talk with can help to untangle and make sense of the emotions that are associated with the circumstances you are facing. I place value in the therapeutic relationship and offer a safe, confidential space for you to explore whatever you are grappling with. I commit to being fully present and believe that counselling can enable you to gain greater self understanding. I love seeing clients go from struggling to thriving and accompanying them on that journey is a real privilege. I do both short and long term work.
Life can throw up many challenges which can cause us to feel unsettled, upset and confused. Having someone to talk with can help to untangle and make sense of the emotions that are associated with the circumstances you are facing. I place value in the therapeutic relationship and offer a safe, confidential space for you to explore whatever you are grappling with. I commit to being fully present and believe that counselling can enable you to gain greater self understanding. I love seeing clients go from struggling to thriving and accompanying them on that journey is a real privilege. I do both short and long term work.
01355 209618 View 01355 209618
Photo of Melanie McGinney, Counsellor, BACP
Melanie McGinney
Counsellor, BACP
Online Only
Hi, thanks for reading my profile! Life can be rubbish sometimes and I believe we can all benefit from talking therapy to help us along the way. Are you anxious, depressed, or struggling with relationships in your life? I offer an Integrative approach that uses a mixture of counselling modalities (CBT, Psychodynamic, and Gestalt), above all I am person-centred and seek to empower you to know yourself better and reach your goals.
Hi, thanks for reading my profile! Life can be rubbish sometimes and I believe we can all benefit from talking therapy to help us along the way. Are you anxious, depressed, or struggling with relationships in your life? I offer an Integrative approach that uses a mixture of counselling modalities (CBT, Psychodynamic, and Gestalt), above all I am person-centred and seek to empower you to know yourself better and reach your goals.
0141 673 6036 View 0141 673 6036
Photo of Leigh Brannon, Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Leigh Brannon
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Durham DH7
When we are uneasy, anxious or depressed, it often means our relationships are troubled. Whether it's difficulties with or changes in relationships, or struggling with endings or new beginnings, our need for human closeness both brings pleasure and causes problems. Sometimes change is driven by others, or maybe you need something to change but don't know the best way to go about it. Perhaps you’re finding that you’re stuck in a destructive communication pattern and feel like you’re going round in circles. Maybe you don’t really know what you want, but would like to find out. I can help.
When we are uneasy, anxious or depressed, it often means our relationships are troubled. Whether it's difficulties with or changes in relationships, or struggling with endings or new beginnings, our need for human closeness both brings pleasure and causes problems. Sometimes change is driven by others, or maybe you need something to change but don't know the best way to go about it. Perhaps you’re finding that you’re stuck in a destructive communication pattern and feel like you’re going round in circles. Maybe you don’t really know what you want, but would like to find out. I can help.
0191 743 0339 View 0191 743 0339
Photo of Nicola Flanagan, Counsellor, MBACP
Nicola Flanagan
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Glasgow G33
Hi, I’m Nicola, a qualified integrated counsellor dedicated to supporting people through life’s challenges — anxiety, stress, grief, relationship issues, or feeling stuck. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. My approach is person-centred and collaborative, tailored to your needs and goals. I believe that everyone has the capacity for growth and healing, and sometimes we just need the right support to uncover it. I combine professional expertise with genuine warmth to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. You don’t have to face this alone — I’m here to help.
Hi, I’m Nicola, a qualified integrated counsellor dedicated to supporting people through life’s challenges — anxiety, stress, grief, relationship issues, or feeling stuck. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. My approach is person-centred and collaborative, tailored to your needs and goals. I believe that everyone has the capacity for growth and healing, and sometimes we just need the right support to uncover it. I combine professional expertise with genuine warmth to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. You don’t have to face this alone — I’m here to help.
0141 673 5856 View 0141 673 5856
Photo of Dr Craig Dunn, Psychologist, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Craig Dunn
Psychologist, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, and thank you for taking the time to read my profile. Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming - especially when so many profiles seem similar. I believe that, like any meaningful relationship, therapy needs to feel like a good fit. Feeling comfortable, understood, and at ease with your therapist is often where real change begins. I’m a Chartered Counselling Psychologist with over ten years’ experience working across children’s and adult mental health services. I began my journey in mental health at the age of 16, and since then have remained deeply committed to improving access to psychological support for all.
Hello, and thank you for taking the time to read my profile. Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming - especially when so many profiles seem similar. I believe that, like any meaningful relationship, therapy needs to feel like a good fit. Feeling comfortable, understood, and at ease with your therapist is often where real change begins. I’m a Chartered Counselling Psychologist with over ten years’ experience working across children’s and adult mental health services. I began my journey in mental health at the age of 16, and since then have remained deeply committed to improving access to psychological support for all.
0141 673 0100 View 0141 673 0100

See more therapy options for Midlothian

Adoption Counsellors
Does my adopted child need therapy?
Not every adopted child needs therapy. However, many can benefit from seeing an adoption-informed therapist, especially if they were victims of abuse or neglect, appear withdrawn or disconnected, have behavioural or developmental issues (which may or may not be related to their adoption), are struggling with feelings of grief or loss surrounding their birth parents, or find it difficult to establish an identity, a challenge that often becomes most apparent during adolescence.

When should adoptive parents seek therapy?
Prospective parents can benefit from therapy even before an adoption—for example, to voice worries and fears; to reconcile infertility struggles, if relevant; or simply to prepare themselves for parenthood. After the adoption, parents who are struggling to bond with their child; are unsure how to talk about adoption or related issues, such as race; or whose child is dealing with developmental, behavioural, or psychiatric concerns can address these and other issues with the help of an adoption-competent therapist.

Is family therapy appropriate for adoptive families?
Family therapy can be invaluable for strengthening the bond between adoptive parents and children, helping the latter feel more secure in their place in the family. Family therapy can also help adoptive families navigate complex communication issues—for example, parents who feel uncomfortable discussing race with their child, who in turn feels invalidated by their silence, or a child who has questions about his birth parents but avoids asking them out of fear of hurting his adoptive parents’ feelings.

What therapy is not appropriate for adoption issues?
A discredited therapy known as “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy” or “rebirthing therapy”) should not be used to treat adopted and foster children, though it was largely designed for this population. Attachment therapy involves restraining, coercing, and punishing the child in order for them to “release” negative emotions and attach to their new caregivers—techniques that are abusive and dangerous and have even proven fatal in some cases.