Louise Stratford

Have you lost your direction?

Welcome! I know it can feel overwhelming to scroll through so many profiles and wonder, ‘How do I find the right person to work with?’ You’re not alone in feeling that way.

Let me share a little about myself. I qualified as an Integrative Counsellor in 2002 and since then, I’ve been on a journey of learning and growth, meeting incredible people along the way. Many of them came to me feeling overwhelmed, searching for meaning and direction. I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside them as they rediscovered themselves, the part that brings hope and purpose.

Often, people experience self-doubt, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, or a sense of disconnection from loved ones. These feelings can lead to isolation, loneliness, and the sense of being misunderstood. Counselling offers a quiet, reflective space to explore these challenges and find a way forward.

You might be wondering, ‘How can this therapy help me? What makes it different?’ Those are important questions. The truth is, I may not be better or different than anyone else, but if you’re still reading, perhaps something here resonates with you. Maybe you’re feeling ready to take that first brave step on your personal journey.

I believe that no amount of experience, qualifications, or theory can replace the power of a genuine therapeutic relationship. My role is to meet you exactly where you are, without judgment, just with curiosity and care, as you share your unique story. Together, we’ll work toward uncovering your inner strength and resilience, so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.

I am a qualified Integrative counsellor, registered and accredited by BACP.

An integrative counsellor blends different therapeutic approaches so your sessions fit you, your needs, goals, and what feels most supportive.

Person‑Centered

Focuses on your feelings, experiences, and strengths, offering a warm, non‑judgmental space where you can explore and grow at your own pace.

Psychodynamic

Explores how past experiences, especially early relationships, may shape your current emotions and behaviors, helping you understand patterns and create positive change.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

CBT highlights how your thoughts, feelings, and actions connect. When unhelpful thinking patterns cause stress or anxiety, we work together to challenge them and develop practical coping strategies.

With over 20 years of experience, I’ve worked in a wide range of settings, including MIND, busy GP practices supporting adults, schools and colleges, and charities working with children, young people, and their families. Alongside my counselling work, I also run a thriving supervision practice, supporting individual counsellors in private practice as well as groups of both qualified practitioners and those currently in training.

My aim is to make counselling more accessible for adults through private online sessions. Life is busy, and support shouldn’t be out of reach. With over two decades of personal and professional experience, I bring compassion and understanding to the challenges you’re facing, creating a space where you feel heard, supported, and empowered to move forward.

I have a deep interest in how past experiences shape the core beliefs we hold about ourselves, and how those beliefs influence the way we relate to others. I believe that, by creating a safe and supportive space, we can gently explore and unravel these deeply rooted patterns. This process can help you reconnect with your true potential and discover the inner strength that allows you to move forward.

If you feel I might be the right person to work with, I’d love to hear from you. I offer a free 15-minute introductory call, just a chance for us to connect and hopefully help you feel at ease.

After that, I’ll send you a short pre-counselling questionnaire. This helps me understand a little more about your needs and ensures we’re a good fit for each other. My priority is that you receive support from the right person for you.

The final step is our contracting stage, which will take place during our first session together. This is a great opportunity for both of us to ask any questions and clarify anything that will help us work well together