Clare Gridley

I work integratively, which means I draw on different therapeutic approaches depending on what feels most helpful for you. My work is strongly influenced by person-centred therapy, so I place importance on building a trusting relationship where you can feel accepted, heard and understood.

I do not believe in telling you what you should do. Instead, we work together to explore your thoughts, feelings, experiences and relationships. This may include looking at patterns that keep repeating, beliefs you hold about yourself, difficult past experiences, boundaries or the way you respond to certain situations.

The pace of therapy is led by you. Some sessions may feel reflective, while others may focus more on making sense of something that is happening in the present. My aim is to help you develop greater self-awareness and understand yourself more fully, so that you can make choices that feel right for you.

I offer 50-minute counselling sessions online, by telephone and through outdoor walking therapy. This gives you the flexibility to choose the format that feels most comfortable for you.

Walking therapy can be a useful alternative if you find sitting face-to-face difficult or feel more at ease talking while moving and spending time outdoors.

I also offer a free 15-minute consultation before starting counselling, giving you the chance to ask questions, briefly discuss what you are looking for and decide whether you feel comfortable working with me.

Your first session is mainly about beginning to understand what has brought you to counselling and what you would like support with.

You do not need to arrive with a clear goal or know exactly what you want to say. We can take things at your pace, and there is no expectation to share anything before you feel ready.

We will also talk through how counselling works, confidentiality and any practical arrangements. Most importantly, the first session gives you the opportunity to get a feel for how we work together and whether the relationship feels right for you.