Samantha Lewis

I am a qualified Person-Centred Counsellor offering a warm, compassionate and non-judgemental space where you can feel genuinely heard, understood and accepted. I believe that every person has their own story, experiences and way of making sense of the world. You are the expert in your own life and my role is not to tell you what to do, but walk alongside you as we explore what is happening for you. There is no pressure to share everything straight away and our sessions move at a pace that feels right for you. I support adults experiencing a range of emotional and mental health difficulties, including anxiety, low mood, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, challenging life experiences, grief and loss. Alongside my counselling work, I also have experience supporting children, young people and families following bereavement, which has given me a deeper understanding of how differently grief can affect each person and each family.

My approach is primarily Person-centred, with the therapeutic relationship at the heart of my work. I aim to create a space where you don't have to pretend to be okay, where difficult feelings are welcome and where you can begin to understand yourself with greater compassion. Counselling isn't about having all the answers or being "fixed". Sometimes it begins simply with having somewhere safe to talk and someone who will truly listen. Together, we can explore what you are experiencing, recognise your strengths and work towards the changes or understanding that feel meaningful for you.

Reaching out can feel like a big step, but you don't have to know where to begin. We can start exactly where you are.

Forget Me Not Counselling & Psychotherapy offers a warm, welcoming and confidential counselling service for adults, with support also available for children and young people within my areas of experience and competence. I work with a range of difficulties including anxiety, low mood, low self-esteem, grief and bereavement, relationship difficulties, life changes and challenging experiences. You do not need to have a diagnosis or know exactly what you want to talk about before reaching out.

Sessions are led by you and what feels important at the time. Some people come to counselling with something specific they would like to explore, while others simply know that things don't feel quite right. Both are completely okay. My practice is grounded in the Person-Centred approach, meaning I value empathy, honesty, acceptance and, most importantly, the relationship we build together. I will not judge you or tell you how you should feel. Instead, I offer a space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences safely and at your own pace.

I currently offer online and telephone counselling, providing greater flexibility and allowing you to access support from a space where you feel comfortable. I am a Registered Member of the BACP (MBACP) and work in accordance with their Ethical Framework, with a commitment to safe, ethical practice and continued professional development.

If you are unsure whether counselling is right for you, you are welcome to get in touch for an initial conversation.

Your first session is an opportunity for us to meet and begin getting to know one another in a safe and relaxed way. I understand that reaching out for counselling can feel like a big step, particularly if you have never spoken to a counsellor before, so there is no expectation for you to share everything straight away. We will talk about what has brought you to counselling, what you may be hoping to gain from our work together and any questions or concerns you may have. I will also explain confidentiality, boundaries and how our sessions will work so that you know what to expect.

I do not believe counselling should feel like an interview or that you need to arrive knowing exactly what to say. There is no right or wrong way to begin. We will work at a pace that feels comfortable for you, with space for you to feel heard, understood and accepted without judgement. Most importantly, the first session gives us the opportunity to see how it feels working together. The therapeutic relationship is an important part of counselling, and I want you to feel comfortable with the person you choose to support you.

Before booking a full 50minute session, I also offer a free 15-minute telephone consultation, giving you the opportunity to ask questions, briefly discuss what has brought you to counselling and see whether I may be the right counsellor for you.