Chris Kirkness

I have availability on Wednesdays and Thursday and am happy to discuss what works for you.

I offer face‑to‑face, online, phone, and outdoor therapy sessions, so you can choose the option that feels safest and most comfortable for you. Outdoor “walk‑and‑talk” therapy can feel especially gentle and grounding, walking side by side often easing anxiety and making it easier to talk at your own pace. Online therapy is a trusted and effective way to work through anxiety and depression, offering flexibility while still providing a warm, confidential space where you will be listened to, understood, and supported. Whatever format you choose, you don’t have to go through things alone, and we can take each step together at a pace that feels right for you.

You may be seeking counselling at a time when life feels difficult, confusing or overwhelming. You might be struggling with anxiety, relationship concerns, low self‑esteem, loneliness, or a meaningful change or loss. Whatever has brought you here, you will be met with warmth, care and understanding. I offer a calm, supportive and non‑judgemental space where you can begin to talk openly about what is going on for you, at your pace.

As a person‑centred counsellor, I focus on creating a relationship in which you feel safe, heard and accepted just as you are. Your needs and experiences shape the direction of our relationship. You may not have to have the right words or know where to start; we can take things gently, allowing space for your thoughts and feelings to emerge naturally.

My own journey through adverse childhood and life experiences has shown me the importance of receiving support and understanding. I work with children, adolescents and adults, offering a steady and compassionate presence as you explore your inner world. Feeling understood and emotionally supported can make it easier to reflect, to develop greater self‑acceptance, and to move towards change in a way that feels manageable and authentic for you. At the heart of my work is the therapeutic relationship, offering you a space where your emotions are welcomed and you do not have to face things alone.

Finding the right counsellor is an important and personal decision. I offer a brief, no‑cost, no‑obligation conversation so you can get a sense of whether working together feels right for you. If it does, we can arrange an initial session. If not, I’ll be happy to help you find a counsellor who’s a better fit.

Happy to discuss my availability during our initial call. I work in the voluntary sector with children and adults and have a private practice. I have found that life has many challenges; finding the resilience to accept them can be one of the greatest. Worry, sadness, stress, anxiety, greif or feeling stuck—whether in your personal circumstances or relationships are all natural responses to difficult circumstances. At these times, we all need support. Sometimes feelings, thoughts and emotions become overwhelming, compulsive, and intrusive making it hard to feel fulfilled, content, and happy. I understand at these times it can be especially hard to reach out. I sincerely hope we can work together to find your calmer space.

About me and my therapy practice

If the outdoors is not for you I can also provide in person and online sessions in a more traditional setting. I believe in the therapeutic power of connecting with nature. The experience offers benefits, including reduced stress, anxiety, and depression, while also boosting happiness, creativity, and focus. Spending time in natural environments can lower heart rate and blood pressure, activate the parasympathetic nervous system for a "rest and digest" state, and even improve sleep quality by regulating the body's natural circadian rhythm. A strong connection to nature is linked to a greater sense of life satisfaction and purpose. Outdoor sessions are in Southeast London's largest green space, a beautiful park, on well-established paths. Walks are created to suit your needs and to ensure confidentiality, provoding an opportunity to appreciate the changing seasons, to find a calm moment in an overwhelming world and experience the grounding effect of natural green spaces while focusing on the issues affecting your life. 

I am a qualified counsellor registered with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I have worked in various Charities and under NHS and local authority contracts providing support to adults and children. My approach is Person-Centred. I have been a coach, mentor, trainer and manager and can draw on these experiences to include elements of solution-focused interventions, if that feels appropriate for you. I can support you in creating plans to enhance aspects of your life and blend these approaches to provide a tailored and effective experience bespoke to your needs. I firmly believe in the power of change and personal growth, and I am here to support you on your journey.

I am currently pursuing a degree in Psychology and Counselling, further deepening my knowledge and skills to provide the best possible support for my clients.

I work within a person-centred approach, providing a safe, non-judgmental space for you to focus on yourself and any issues you want to bring. We are a product of our experiences and environment past and present. If we work together, my assessment process will recognise your childhood experiences as well as current relationships and patterns of behaviour.

Finding the right therapist for you is a vital part of your process. I offer a free phone call to briefly assess our compatability, usually about 15 minutes, to see if you want to progress. I can offer a detailed assessment to help me undertsand your life situation, medical history, relationships and family connections.