Rachel Hayes

I am currently accepting new clients and have recently opened my diary for Tuesday appointments between 9:00am and 3:00pm.

I welcome enquiries from individuals looking to begin or continue their counselling journey.

If you are seeking therapy during daytime hours on a Tuesday, I would be happy to hear from you. Alternatively, I also have limited availability on Wednesdays and Fridays. 

Please feel free to get in touch to discuss availability or to ask any questions before booking.

I work as a person-centred therapist, which means I place each individual at the heart of the therapeutic process. I believe that everyone is unique and has their own experiences, values, and ways of understanding the world. My role is to offer a safe, supportive, and non-judgemental space where you can explore what feels important to you, at your own pace.

I work collaboratively, guided by empathy, genuineness, and respect. Rather than directing or diagnosing, I listen carefully and support you in developing greater self-understanding, clarity, and self-acceptance. I trust in your capacity for growth and change, and therapy is shaped by what you bring to each session.

I welcome people from all backgrounds and aim to work in a way that is inclusive, affirming, and responsive to individual needs. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, low mood, relationship difficulties, loss, or simply feeling stuck, I will work alongside you to help you make sense of your experiences and move towards greater wellbeing.

I believe that openness and honesty are the minimum anyone should expect from a counsellor. I aim to offer a genuine, transparent, and respectful therapeutic relationship where you feel safe to be yourself and to speak openly about your experiences.

My practice provides a calm, confidential, and supportive space where you can explore whatever is important to you. I understand that seeking counselling can feel like a significant step, and I work at a pace that feels right for you.

As a person-centred therapist, I work with you as an individual rather than focusing on labels or assumptions. Sessions are client-led and shaped around your needs, with empathy, acceptance, and non-judgement at the heart of the work.

I work with adults facing a wide range of challenges, including bereavement and loss, anxiety, stress, low mood, relationship difficulties, self-esteem issues, and life transitions. I recognise that everyone’s experience is unique, and I offer a space where these difficulties can be explored safely and at your own pace.

I also have extensive experience supporting young people aged 13–18. I am mindful of the unique challenges young people may face and aim to provide a safe, age-appropriate space where they feel heard and understood.

I welcome people from all backgrounds and identities and will work alongside you to support greater self-understanding, confidence, and emotional wellbeing.

Before beginning counselling, I offer a free 15-minute introductory call via phone or Zoom. This gives us the opportunity to briefly discuss what brings you to counselling, answer any initial questions you may have, and decide whether working together feels like the right fit for you.

If you choose to proceed, our first full session will focus on creating a safe and supportive foundation for our work together. We will go through the counselling contract, outlining what you can expect from me and what I ask from you in return.

Prior to your first session, and occasionally throughout our work together, I will ask you to complete some brief paperwork. This helps ensure that I have the information needed to support you effectively. I am happy to guide you through this and answer any questions, either in advance or during your session.

This initial session is an opportunity to begin building a trusting therapeutic relationship, establish clear boundaries, and create a shared understanding as we move forward.