About
The Countryside Counsellor
​Welcome to The Countryside Counsellor. I'm Layla, an integrative counsellor, which means I tailor sessions to your individual needs, drawing from a range of approaches to support your personal growth. At the heart of my practice is a psychodynamic foundation, which explores how past experiences and unconscious patterns may be influencing your present life. Working together in a calm, rural setting, is a safe, confidential space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences at your own pace.
Experience
Professional Background
I became a counsellor after completing four years of intensive training with CPCAB, which included over 100 hours of counselling practice during my placement. This hands-on experience allowed me to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures, giving me valuable insight into a wide range of issues and life situations. Since qualifying, I’ve been working with a local charity that specialises in counselling children and young people, as well as seeing clients in private practice.
Before counselling, I came from a very different background, equine science. I hold a BSc (Hons) in Equine Science and spent several years working in that field. My decision to change careers came after the birth of my son. Following a traumatic birth experience, I became acutely aware of how limited support can be for parents during those early, often overwhelming, days. While the arrival of a child is a joyful time for many, for others it can feel isolating and deeply vulnerable. That experience shaped my passion and purpose: to support others who may find themselves navigating similar challenges and to provide a safe, understanding space when it's needed most.