Sian

I don’t think I ever set out to become a counsellor.

But when I look back, perhaps the signs were always there.

Hi, I’m Siân. At 7 years old, my school report described me as “very caring, loving… thoughtful and perceptive.”

I studied Psychology at university because I was fascinated by people, our experiences and what makes us who we are. I loved it, but I wasn’t sure where it would lead me. If I’m honest, I also felt I didn’t yet have enough life experience.

So I followed another passion and became a Primary School teacher.

For 20 years, teaching brought me joy, challenge and the privilege of supporting children and families through some of their happiest, and hardest, moments.

Over time, I realised it was the pastoral side of my work that kept drawing me in.

The children who needed someone to really listen.

The families navigating difficult circumstances.

The conversations in corridors.

The moments when someone simply needed to feel understood.

Supporting people through difficult times had always mattered deeply to me.

My own experiences have shaped this too. When I was young, my parents separated, and I know personally how much it can mean to have someone safe beside you when life feels difficult; someone you trust, who listens without judgement and helps you process what you’re carrying.

So I trained as a person-centred counsellor, gaining a Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling, and co-founded Storm and Rise Therapy.

At the heart of my work is the belief that you are the expert on yourself. I’m not here to tell you what to do or pretend to have all the answers. I’m here to offer a safe, supportive and non-judgemental space where you can slow down, explore what feels important and begin to understand what’s going on for you.

A space where you don’t have to pretend you’re okay.

Where you don’t need to have the right words.

Where you can arrive exactly as you are.

Maybe you know exactly what’s brought you to counselling.

Maybe you don’t.

Maybe all you know is that something doesn’t feel quite right.

That’s enough.

We can start there.

Slowly.

Together.

At your pace. 🌿

I offer face-to-face, online, telephone and walk-and-talk sessions, recognising that sitting opposite a counsellor and maintaining eye contact can feel uncomfortable for some people. Walking side by side outdoors can create space to breathe, reduce physical tension and help thoughts and feelings feel a little easier to process.

I have experience supporting people with anxiety, burnout, stress, overwhelm, chronic illness, health uncertainty, neurodivergence, trauma, domestic abuse, shame, guilt, self-esteem, identity, relationships, boundaries, life transitions, depression, bereavement, grief and loss.

I also bring 20 years of experience working with children and families, supporting young people through a wide range of experiences, including neurodiversity, gender identity, grief, loss and health challenges.

Whatever has brought you here, you don’t have to have it all figured out before you arrive.

We can start wherever you are.