Counselling JCT

Counselling shaped around you

I'm Jackie Connaughton, a BACP registered counsellor with more than 25 years' experience.

There is no single way to experience counselling.

Some women come because something has happened recently and they need support through a particular challenge or transition.

Others have been carrying something for years and want the time and space to understand it more deeply.

Some know exactly what they want help with.

Others simply know that something no longer feels right.

You don't need to know exactly what you need before we begin.

We start with where you are and work together to understand what feels important.

There is no simple answer, because every woman and every story is different.

Some women come for a shorter period during a particular challenge, loss or transition.

Others choose longer-term counselling because they want the space to explore their experiences in greater depth.

You don't have to decide this before we begin.

We can review how things are feeling as we go, so that the work remains purposeful and appropriate for you rather than being determined by a predetermined number of sessions.

Your first step

Before beginning counselling, I offer a free 20-minute introductory conversation.

It gives us an opportunity to talk about what has brought you here, what you hope might be different, answer any questions you may have, and explore whether working together feels like the right fit.

You don't need to be certain that counselling is right for you before you book.

There is no obligation to continue.

It's simply an opportunity to talk, ask questions and see how it feels.

What you can expect

Counselling with me is:

• Confidential — A private space where you can talk openly and honestly.

• Collaborative — We work together to understand what you need and what feels important.

• Individual — There is no prescribed path. Your experiences, circumstances and needs guide the work.

• At your pace — Nothing is forced, and you never have to share something before you feel ready.

• Trauma-informed — My work draws on trauma-informed practice, relational counselling and an understanding of how life experiences can shape the way we think, feel, relate and respond.

A different kind of commitment

You don't have to commit to changing your whole life.

You don't have to have all the answers.

You don't even have to know exactly what you need.

The first step can simply be a conversation.

And if we decide to work together, we begin where you are.