Kirsten Bradley-Watson

I currently have availability for new clients. My working hours are Monday- Friday 9am until 6pm. I also offer evening appointments during the week.

Life can feel overwhelming at times. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, low mood, stress, burnout, self-doubt or a sense of feeling stuck, it’s not always easy to make sense of what’s happening internally—especially while trying to keep up with daily responsibilities. Counselling offers a space to pause, reflect and begin to understand yourself with greater clarity and compassion.

With over twenty years’ experience supporting young people and adults, my work is rooted in the belief that emotional wellbeing is closely connected to how we function, learn, relate and live our lives. I have worked within academic settings, mentoring roles and counselling environments, which has given me a broad understanding of the pressures people face—whether that’s navigating education, work, relationships or major life transitions.

At the heart of my practice is a mindful philosophy that values both mental and physical wellbeing. I aim to support clients in developing stability, resilience and a stronger sense of balance, recognising that our minds and bodies are deeply interconnected. Therapy isn’t about “fixing” you—it’s about creating the conditions where insight, change and self-acceptance can naturally emerge.

The therapeutic relationship itself is central to my work. I believe meaningful change happens within a trusting, supportive and collaborative connection. I aim to offer warmth, compassion and acceptance, creating an environment where you feel heard, respected and safe enough to be yourself—without pressure or expectation.

I have experience working with adults and young people aged 16+ in a range of settings, including private practice, an employee assistance provider (EAP), and further education within a college environment. I am also part of a team delivering wellbeing support in the corporate sector, including workshops, talks and retreat days. This breadth of experience allows me to adapt my approach to suit different needs, backgrounds and life stages.

I offer a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space where you can explore whatever has brought you to therapy, at your own pace. Some clients come with a clear issue they want to work through, while others arrive with a general sense that something doesn’t feel quite right. Both are equally valid starting points. Together, we gently explore thoughts, emotions and patterns, helping you to understand yourself more fully and make meaningful changes.

I work integratively, tailoring therapy to the individual rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach. This may include elements of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Rogers’ core conditions of empathy, congruence and unconditional positive regard. Alongside reflection and exploration, I often introduce practical tools and techniques that clients can take with them into everyday life, supporting long-term wellbeing beyond the therapy room.

Understanding how the brain works can be an empowering part of the therapeutic process. Where appropriate, I incorporate psychoeducation to help make sense of emotional responses, stress patterns and habitual behaviours. Many clients find that this knowledge helps reduce self-criticism and builds a greater sense of choice and self-compassion.

Choosing a counsellor is a personal decision, and it’s important to find someone you feel comfortable with. If you’re considering therapy, you don’t need to have everything figured out before you begin. Sometimes, taking that first step is simply about giving yourself permission to be supported.