Pauline Rouse

Hello, and welcome to The Listening Room. I offer person-centred counselling, which means our work is led by you. I provide a calm, supportive and non-judgemental space where you can begin wherever you are.

Reaching out for counselling can feel like a big and sometimes overwhelming step. You may be feeling anxious, low, or carrying things that feel difficult to put into words. You might not be sure where to start, and that is okay. We can take things gently, at your pace, with no pressure to share anything before you feel ready.

My aim is to create a space where you feel safe enough to be yourself, where you feel heard, understood and accepted. I will work alongside you with empathy and care, supporting you as you make sense of your thoughts, feelings and experiences.

Accessibility is central to how I work. I understand that there can be many barriers to accessing support, both practical and emotional. I offer flexible ways of working, including face-to-face, online and telephone sessions, and I will adapt our work together to meet your individual needs wherever possible.

I have experience supporting people with anxiety, grief and bereavement, addiction, and difficult or distressing experiences. However, I am not limited to these areas, and you are welcome to bring whatever feels important to you.

Alongside my counselling work, I have many years of experience working with young people in a secondary school setting, giving me a strong understanding of the pressures people can face at different stages of life.

My role is to walk alongside you, offering a space where you can explore, reflect and move forward in a way that feels right for you.

I offer face-to-face, online and telephone counselling, giving you the flexibility to choose what feels most comfortable and accessible for you. Face-to-face sessions are available in a quiet and private setting in central Airdrie.

Sessions are usually 50 minutes and typically take place on a weekly basis, although we can talk together about what feels right for you.

For online sessions, I use Zoom, with WhatsApp available as a backup if needed. I aim to keep the process as simple and straightforward as possible, offering support around technology so that you can feel at ease.

I understand that starting counselling can feel unfamiliar or even daunting. My aim is to create a space where you feel comfortable from the beginning, where you can take your time and begin wherever you are. We can move at a pace that feels manageable, with space for pauses, reflection, and whatever you may need in the moment.

Accessibility is central to my practice. I recognise that everyone’s needs are different, and I will work with you to shape our sessions in a way that supports you best. This may include adapting the pace, communication style, or structure of our work together.

I work with adults and young people from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. You do not need to have a clear reason for coming to counselling. Whether you are facing a specific difficulty or simply have a sense that something is not quite right, you are very welcome here.

If you have any questions or would like to talk things through before starting, I am always happy to hear from you.

I offer an initial free telephone call as a first step. This is an informal and relaxed conversation where we can begin to get to know each other.

You are welcome to share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with. This is your space to talk about what has brought you to counselling, ask any questions, and get a sense of how I work.

There is no pressure or expectation to continue after this call. It is simply an opportunity to see whether working together feels right for you.

If you decide you would like to go ahead, we can then arrange ongoing sessions in a way that suits you, whether face-to-face, online or by telephone.

My aim is for you to feel at ease from the very beginning, and supported in taking this first step. You are welcome to get in touch when you feel ready.