Rachel Derrington

I have availability for in person and online working

Hi, I'm Rachel, an integrative, person‑centred counsellor based in North Tyneside, offering a calm, compassionate space where you can explore what’s happening in your life at your own pace.

Many of the people I work with have experienced difficult or overwhelming events, or exhaustion from keeping their mask to the world held high.  Most are looking for a safe, grounded place to explore how these experiences continue to shape their lives. Often with living with some kind of 'difference' I offer everyone unconditional respect and consideration. A strong value of mine is that my clients feel really seen and heard. 

My practice is trauma‑informed, which means I pay close attention to safety, choice, and collaboration throughout our work together. I recognise how trauma can affect the body, emotions, relationships, and sense of self, and I support you to move at a pace that feels manageable. You are always in control of what you share, and we work together to build stability, resilience, and understanding before exploring anything that feels tender or complex.

I have particular experience working with neurodivergent clients and people within LGBTQ+communities, and I aim to offer a space where you don’t have to mask, explain, or minimise your experiences. My approach is affirming, respectful, and shaped around your needs rather than a one‑size‑fits‑all model.

As an integrative counsellor, I draw from person‑centred therapy alongside other approaches to support you in reconnecting with your strengths and sense of agency. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, hypervigilance, low mood, relationship patterns, or the ongoing effects of past experiences, I offer a calm, consistent presence to help you feel heard and supported.

I offer in‑person sessions in a comfortable setting in North Tyneside, as well as online sessions for those who prefer to work from home.

I am trained integratively with a humanistic focus.

In a nutshell this means that I put you in the centre of our work and not my theory. I have the knowledge to use CBT, psychodynamic and person centred approaches but will use your skills and knowledge to tailor your therapy to work with you. I work with compassion and can be gentle, but will also challenge you if that is what works best for you to promote positive change.

I work both short and long term.

I am welcoming to all and offer a ground floor entrance, toilet and off street parking next to entrance.

I can offer a free short introductory where you can ask any questions and get to know each other.

In our first initial session we will establish what your blocks are and aims for your counselling.

We can discuss your expectations and how regularly you would like sessions.