Michael Ogden

I offer flexible daytime and evening appointments during the week for adults, children and young people.

I am a person-centred counsellor offering a calm, grounded and relational space for adults, children and young people.

I believe that growth happens when people feel seen, heard and understood. My approach is not about fixing or giving advice, but about working alongside you to explore what may feel difficult, confusing or overwhelming, at your own pace.

I work with a wide range of experiences, including anxiety, low mood, life changes, identity, relationships, and challenges that can feel hard to put into words.

For children and young people, I offer counselling with Play as Therapy. This allows children to express themselves in ways that don’t rely only on talking, using play and creativity to help make sense of their thoughts and feelings.

My background includes over 25 years working with children and young people across education, pastoral roles and youth justice. This has shaped a strong understanding of behaviour, belonging and emotional safety, and continues to inform my therapeutic work.

Whether you are an adult seeking space to reflect, or a parent looking for support for your child, I aim to offer a steady, respectful and confidential space where you can feel safe enough to begin.

Starting counselling can feel like a big step. You don’t need to have everything figured out before getting in touch.

In our sessions, we will take things at your pace. You can bring whatever feels important, whether that’s something specific or just a sense that things don’t feel quite right. There is no expectation to have the “right words”.

Sessions last up to 60 minutes and are offered in person in Cawdor, near Inverness, or online. I offer a consistent, confidential space where you can begin to explore your thoughts and feelings safely.

For children and young people, sessions may include play and creative approaches alongside talking. This helps create a space where they can express themselves in ways that feel more natural to them.

I work in a person-centred way, meaning I will not direct or judge, but will support you to make sense of your experiences in your own way. Over time, this can help build understanding, resilience and a stronger sense of self.

If you’re considering counselling, you’re welcome to get in touch for an initial conversation to see if it feels like the right fit.

The first session is an opportunity for us to meet and begin to get a sense of whether working together feels right.

There is no expectation to share everything straight away. We will take things at your pace, and you can talk about whatever feels comfortable for you.

I will explain how I work, including confidentiality and its limits, and answer any questions you may have. This is also a space for you to get a feel for the process and decide whether you would like to continue.

You do not need to prepare anything in advance. Some people come with something specific they want to talk about, while others are less sure. Both are completely okay.

For children and young people, the first session may include time to gently introduce the space and begin building trust, using play or creative approaches where appropriate.

Sessions are charged at the standard rate.