Carole McKenzie

I am available from early December 2026 for face to face appointments in my studio in Portobello, Edinburgh. I am available immediately for both online, email and telephone appointments.

I am a BACP-registered counsellor, psychotherapist and coach offering a warm, non-judgemental and encouraging space in which to explore whatever has brought you to this point in your life .

My approach is grounded in Transactional Analysis, a practical and down-to-earth way of understanding present-day difficulties, relationships and the patterns of relating that can sometimes leave us feeling stuck. I value its focus on helping people develop greater authenticity, autonomy and self-compassion.

I work relationally and collaboratively, adapting therapy to you as an individual. We will agree what you would like to gain from therapy and review this regularly. In Transactional Analysis, this shared process is often called “contracting”: making a realistic plan together about what may be possible, meaningful and achievable. Therapy can be challenging work, but there is no single right way to do it. There can be laughter as well as tears, and I aim to create a space where you can be yourself.

Alongside Transactional Analysis, I may draw on attachment-focused therapy, CBT-informed approaches and brief, solution-focused work where helpful. My aim is to work with you towards changes and solutions that are meaningful, realistic and achievable in everyday life.

I offer both short-term, focused work and longer-term therapy. Some concerns can be explored within a shorter period, while others need more time and space to understand. There is no fixed minimum or maximum number of sessions; we will decide together what feels appropriate. I usually recommend weekly sessions, although fortnightly sessions can also work well for some people.

I work with adults, and may also work with younger people with parental consent, depending on their individual circumstances and needs.

I understand that life is busy and it is not always possible to attend face to face appointments. I offer telephone or secure video sessions and can even work by email or text should this be more suitable. 

I offer face-to-face counselling and psychotherapy in Portobello, Edinburgh, from a private, self-contained garden studio with a peaceful view towards the sea. The setting is calm, comfortable and confidential, offering space away from the demands of everyday life.

I also offer online and telephone counselling by arrangement. This can be helpful if travelling to Portobello is difficult, if you are away from home, or if remote sessions feel more manageable for you.

My standard appointments are 60 minutes. This includes 50 minutes of therapy, followed by time for a cup of tea and a chance to pause, reflect and process the session before returning to the rest of your day. Some people value this unhurried ending, particularly when they have been exploring difficult or emotional experiences.

I support adults with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, low mood and depression, loss and bereavement, relationship difficulties, work-related stress, low self-esteem, difficult family dynamics and significant life changes. You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck in familiar patterns, unsure of yourself, or simply aware that something needs to change.

I have a particular interest in supporting people who feel nervous, uncertain or apprehensive about starting therapy. You do not need to know exactly what you want to say, or have everything worked out, before getting in touch.

Alongside my work as a counsellor and psychotherapist, I bring a previous professional background in education and substantial experience of supporting people through complex life circumstances. I offer a compassionate, respectful and practical approach, recognising that life can feel difficult and overwhelming for all of us at times.

Whether you have a clear idea of what you want to address or are struggling to put it into words, you are welcome to get in touch.

Taking the first step towards therapy can feel daunting, particularly if you have never spoken to a counsellor before. You do not need to have everything worked out before making contact, and there is no expectation that you will know exactly what to say.

I offer a free, no-obligation 30-minute telephone consultation before we arrange a first session. This is an opportunity for us to have an initial conversation about what has brought you to therapy, what you might be hoping for, and whether my way of working feels like a good fit for you.

You are welcome to ask practical questions about sessions, availability, fees, face-to-face or online counselling, confidentiality, and anything else that would help you feel more comfortable. There is no pressure to make a decision during the call; you can take time afterwards to consider whether you would like to go ahead.

If we decide to work together, our first full appointment will be an opportunity to explore your situation in more detail, at a pace that feels manageable for you. I will explain how I work, including confidentiality and its limits, professional boundaries, practical arrangements and how we can agree a shared focus for therapy.

Therapy may involve sadness, uncertainty, insight and change, but it can also bring relief, connection and moments of humour. My role is not to tell you what to do, but to offer a thoughtful, supportive space in which you can understand yourself more fully and find a way forward that feels right for you.

If you are considering counselling or psychotherapy, you are very welcome to get in touch by email or telephone to arrange a free, no-obligation 30-minute consultation. You do not need to explain everything in your first message; simply letting me know that you are thinking about therapy is enough. We can have an initial conversation, answer any questions you may have, and decide together whether working with me feels right for you.