Counselling with Laura

Somewhere quiet to talk things through

I'm a qualified counsellor with over 20 years' experience in mental health. I see clients in person, by phone and by video, and everyone starts with a free 30-minute consultation so you can see how it feels before deciding anything.

Request a free consultation How it works
In person when available  ·  Telephone  ·  Video call
Laura, counsellor at LD Counselling Services
About Laura

Support that goes at your pace

I've worked in mental health for more than twenty years, and the thing I've come to believe most is that people rarely need to be told what to do. What helps is having someone listen properly and take you seriously, so you can start to make sense of what's going on and work out where you want to go from here.

That's how I work with every client. There's no set programme. We look at what matters to you and I shape the support around your life, so some people come for a handful of sessions and others stay for longer.

You don't need to arrive with the right words or a clear idea of what's wrong. Plenty of people don't, and figuring that out is part of the work we do together.

20+Years in mental health
30Minute free consultation
How I can help

What we can work on

People come to counselling for all sorts of reasons. These are some of the most common, but if what you're dealing with isn't here you're still very welcome to get in touch.

Relationships

Difficulties with a partner, family or friends, or patterns that keep repeating.

Work and career

Pressure at work, burnout, uncertainty about direction or a job that's taking its toll.

Anxiety and stress

Worry that won't switch off and feeling constantly on edge or overwhelmed.

Depression

Low mood, losing interest in things, or feeling flat for longer than you'd expect.

Bereavement and loss

Grief after a death, and other losses that don't always get recognised.

Self-esteem

Low confidence, a harsh inner critic, or finding it hard to value yourself.

Life changes

Moving, separating, becoming a parent, retiring, or any big transition.

Emotional difficulties

Feelings that are hard to name or manage and that you'd like to understand better.

Getting started

How it works

Taking the first step can feel like a lot, so I've kept it simple. Nothing is booked until we've spoken and you're happy to go ahead.

1

Fill in the short form

It only takes a few minutes. Share as much or as little as you're comfortable with about what's brought you here.

2

I'll be in touch

I read every enquiry myself and will email you a link to book your free consultation at a time that suits you.

3

Free 30-minute chat

A chance to talk, ask questions and see whether we're the right fit. There's no obligation to carry on afterwards.

4

Regular sessions

If you'd like to continue, we'll agree on a format and a time that work for you and get started.

Sessions

Choose what feels right for you

Some people prefer being in the same room, while others find it easier to open up from home. You can also switch between formats if your circumstances change.

When available

In person

Face-to-face sessions in a calm, private room. Ask about availability when we speak.

Telephone

Talk from wherever you feel most at ease. Many people find it easier without the camera.

Video call

Face-to-face from home, on a secure video link that I'll send before each session.

Confidential and private

Your privacy and trust matter a great deal to me. What you share in our sessions stays between us, and I'll explain exactly how confidentiality works when we first meet so there are no surprises.

Kind words from clients
Laura is a good listener, very supportive and helped me to be more in peace with myself in a time of self-doubt and conflict.Former client
Loved having her as my therapist, very genuine and truly there to help you achieve the best version of yourself.Former client
Take the first step

Request your free consultation

Fill in the form and I'll get back to you by email with a link to book a free 30-minute consultation.

If you'd rather talk first, you're welcome to call or email me instead.

07752 090674 LDCounselling@yahoo.com
How would you like to have sessions?
A few lines is plenty. You can tell me more when we speak.

Thank you

Your enquiry has reached me. I'll read it and email you with a link to book your free consultation.

FAQ

Questions people often ask

If your question isn't answered here, just ask when you get in touch or during your free consultation.

What happens after I fill in the form?

I read every enquiry myself. Once I've looked at yours, I'll email you a link so you can book your free 30-minute consultation at a time that suits you.

Is the first consultation really free?

Yes. The first 30 minutes are free and there's no obligation to book anything afterwards. It's a chance for you to ask questions, get a feel for how I work and decide whether counselling with me is right for you.

What happens in the free consultation?

We'll talk a little about what's brought you to counselling and what you'd like to get from it. I'll explain how sessions work, and you can ask me anything. By the end we'll both have a good sense of whether we're a good fit.

If I think another type of support would suit you better, I'll tell you honestly and point you in the right direction.

How long are sessions and how much do they cost?

I'll go through session length and fees with you during your free consultation, so you have everything you need before deciding whether to go ahead.

How many sessions will I need?

It varies from person to person. Some people find a few sessions are enough, while others prefer longer-term support. We'll talk about it at the start and check in as we go, and you're always free to stop.

Is everything I say confidential?

Yes. What you share stays between us. There are a small number of rare situations where a counsellor may need to share information, for example if someone is at serious risk of harm, and I'll explain these clearly before we begin so you know exactly where you stand.

Do I need a referral from my GP?

No. You can get in touch directly using the form, by phone or by email.

Is telephone or video counselling as effective as meeting in person?

For many people, yes. Some actually find it easier to open up from their own home. If you're not sure which suits you, we can talk about it during your consultation, and you can change format later on.

I'm not sure counselling is right for me. Should I still get in touch?

Yes. Lots of people feel unsure at the start, and that's exactly what the free consultation is for. You don't need to know what's wrong or what you want before you contact me.

I've had sessions with Laura before. How do I book?

Welcome back. Please use the booking link I've sent you, or call or email me and I'll send it over.

What if I need to cancel or rearrange?

Please let me know as soon as you can. I'll share my cancellation policy with you before your first paid session.

What should I do if I need help urgently?

This isn't an emergency service and I can't always respond straight away. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999. You can talk to Samaritans at any time, day or night, by calling 116 123 for free.