Paulette Jennings

Hi, I'm Paulette,  I am a qualified Level 5 psychodynamic counsellor and a member of BACP and BAATN. I offer a warm, compassionate and non-judgemental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences, and feel heard, respected and valued.

My approach is psychodynamic and attachment-informed. Together, we can explore how past experiences and relationships may influence how you feel about yourself, relate to others and respond to difficulties in the present. This can help you develop greater self-understanding and consider new ways of moving forward.

I have a particular interest in supporting people affected by trauma, domestic abuse, difficult childhood experiences, relationship difficulties, loss and life transitions. You do not need to know exactly what is wrong or have a clear goal before starting. We can begin with whatever feels most important to you.

Alongside talking, I offer creative approaches such as art, imagery, storytelling, metaphor and journaling, if these feel helpful to you. No artistic skills are needed, and you can choose whether to use these approaches. They can provide another way to express experiences when words feel difficult.

I work collaboratively and at your pace, with sensitivity to your background, culture, identity and individual needs, including neurodivergence. We can discuss any adjustments that may help you feel more comfortable in our sessions.

I value your autonomy and will respect your choices throughout our work. At the beginning, we will discuss confidentiality and its limits, boundaries and what you can expect from counselling. I use regular supervision and ongoing professional development to support my practice.

You do not have to have everything figured out before you begin. We can start where you are.

Healing Minds Therapy Services offers online counselling for adults aged 18 and over, providing space to pause, reflect and explore what is happening in your life.

You may be seeking support with anxiety, low mood, self-esteem, relationship difficulties, bereavement or the impact of past experiences. You may feel overwhelmed, stuck or unsure how to describe what you are going through. You are welcome to begin wherever you are.

I offer an initial 10–15 minute online consultation. This gives us an opportunity to discuss what brings you to counselling, ask questions and consider whether working together feels right for you. There is no obligation to continue.

Sessions take place online through Microsoft Teams. You will need a reliable internet connection and a quiet, private space where you feel comfortable talking. Online counselling allows you to attend from a familiar environment without travelling.

If we decide to work together, we will agree a regular weekly appointment. Before counselling begins, I will explain the session arrangements, fees, payment and cancellation policy, confidentiality and its limits. You will have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss any access or communication needs.

Sessions offer time to talk about what matters to you. There is no pressure to share everything at once. Creative activities are available if you find them helpful, but talking alone is equally welcome.

We will review our work together, giving you space to reflect on how counselling feels, what is helpful and anything you would like to approach differently.

My aim is to offer a respectful, supportive therapeutic relationship in which you can feel more able to understand yourself and explore the changes you wish to make.

Before our first session, I will email you an initial assessment form and counselling agreement to read and complete. We can discuss any questions or anything you would like help completing.

Our first counselling session focuses on getting to know you and understanding what you would like support with. We will explore your current concerns, relevant background and what you hope to gain from counselling. You do not need to prepare a personal history or know exactly what to say.

As part of the initial assessment, we will discuss your wellbeing, any previous experience of counselling and any support you currently receive. We will also explore any immediate concerns about your safety or wellbeing, and any communication or access needs that may help you participate comfortably.

We will go through our counselling agreement, including confidentiality and its limits, session arrangements, fees, payment and cancellations. You will have time to ask questions before deciding how you would like to proceed.

There is no pressure to share more than you feel ready to. We can take things at your pace, and you are welcome to tell me if something feels difficult or unclear.