Catherine Bownass

• Free 15-minute introductory chat

• 50-minute sessions

• In person

• Online

• Walk and talk

• Home visits

Monday – Wednesday: 4.15pm – 6.15pm

Thursday: 9.00am – 11.00am

Friday: 9.00am – 5.00pm

Saturday: 8.00am – 12.00pm

My practice is centred on supporting young people, parents, carers and families who may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, emotionally stuck, disconnected from themselves or others, or struggling with the pressures of everyday life.

Some of the issues I work with include:

• Anxiety, feeling overwhelmed and emotional stuckness

• Pressure from school, work or family life

• Difficulties with friendships, relationships and family challenges

• Neurodiversity, including ADHD and autism

• Eating disorders

• Parenting concerns

• Identity, belonging and cultural expectations

• Low confidence and self-esteem

• Loss, change and life transitions

• Attachment difficulties and the impact of trauma or adverse childhood experiences

I have worked with young people and families for over 18 years and have been a school counsellor since 2013. Working in schools and private practice has given me insight into the challenges many young people face today, including academic pressure, social anxiety, relationships, family difficulties, and questions of identity and belonging. Alongside this, I work with parents, carers and families who may be struggling with relationships, change or emotional wellbeing.

My approach is integrative and tailored to each individual. I believe that people are the experts in their own lives and that therapy works best when it provides a safe, respectful and non-judgemental space to explore thoughts, feelings and experiences.

I recognise that our lives are shaped by our backgrounds, cultures, relationships and personal experiences. My work is informed by an understanding of attachment, trauma and resilience, and I aim to provide a space where these can be explored openly and with curiosity.

Often, people come to therapy having spent a long time focusing on the needs and expectations of others. Together, we can make sense of what is happening, deepen understanding, and explore ways forward that feel meaningful and manageable.

Are you a young person who feels overwhelmed, anxious or stuck? Perhaps with school, organisation, exams, friendships, relationships, or everything in between? Do you want someone to talk to who does not judge and who brings no agenda of their own to the conversation?

If so, therapy may be helpful.

Likewise, if you are a parent or carer concerned about a child, or feeling overwhelmed by the demands of family life, therapy can provide space to think, reflect and find a way forward.

I offer both single-session and longer-term therapy. Some people come with a specific issue they would like to work through, while others find it helpful to explore broader patterns, relationships or life experiences over a longer period.

Whatever brings you to therapy, we will work together at a pace that feels right for you.

I offer a free 15-minute introductory telephone call. This gives us an opportunity to discuss what has brought you to therapy, ask any questions you may have, and consider whether I am the right therapist for you.

The first full session is an opportunity for us to begin building an understanding of what is happening in your life and what you hope to gain from therapy. There is no pressure to share everything at once. We will work at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

Together, we will think about your goals, explore what support may be most helpful, and decide whether a single-session, short-term or longer-term approach is likely to meet your needs.