Latest Articles 

Recent reporting on maternity services in the UK has brought to light significant systemic problems affecting women and families, with implications not only for physical healthcare but also for emotional wellbeing and mental health. A major independent investigation into maternity and neonatal services in England, led by Baroness Valerie Amos, published an interim report this month. This report revealed widespread issues including concealment of harmful incidents, poor commun

I did something this week that, in my opinion, should be made mandatory for every single person once a month: I went on a solo spa day. Now, I’ve always been a fan of a spa day (when time and finances allow, aka when the stars align and the bank account doesn’t laugh at me). But until now, I’d always gone with family or friends. And don’t get me wrong, spa days with others are lovely. But this week? This felt different. This felt… life-changing. Slightly over indulgent. Possi

Being human is not about having it all together. It’s about having the capacity to feel, to struggle, to connect, often all at the same time. To be human is to experience a full emotional range: joy, grief, anger, shame, hope, love, and uncertainty. Counselling recognises that none of these emotions are “wrong” or signs of failure. They are signals, ways the nervous system can communicate basic needs. This week, I felt the need to write something about being human . With the

Take a moment. Unclench your jaw. Drop your shoulders. Take one slow breath in… and out. So often, we move through our days holding tension without even noticing it. Our jaw tightens as we push through another task. Our shoulders creep upward as we carry responsibilities, expectations, and unspoken worries. Our breath becomes shallow while our minds race ahead, always bracing for what’s next. Pausing can feel unfamiliar, sometimes even uncomfortable, especially in a world tha

January can be tough. After the excitement of Christmas and perhaps a slower pace over the festive period, shorter days, colder weather, and post-festive fatigue can all take a toll on our mood and energy. Many people feel low, anxious, or unmotivated during this month and that’s completely normal! Expectations to “start fresh” or be productive can add pressure, and the quieter, darker days may make loneliness or stress more noticeable. Tips to support yourself this month: Ke

The New Year is often framed as a time for transformation; new goals, new habits, a fresh start. While this can be motivating for some, it can also create pressure, self-criticism, and unrealistic expectations for others. I want to acknowledge something important: mental health doesn’t reset on January 1st. Emotional wellbeing is not about sudden change or perfection. It’s about awareness, compassion, and steady support over time. Rather than focusing on resolutions that dema

For many, the holidays are a time of warmth, laughter, and gathering with the people who feel like home. But for others, this season can bring stress, loneliness, complicated family dynamics, or memories that aren’t so bright. As we move through the festive moments, let’s hold space for both experiences. Celebrate joyfully if this time fills you up, and offer compassion to those who may find it heavy. If you’re struggling, you’re not alone. If you’re thriving, may your light

Modern life often pulls people in many directions at once; work, family responsibilities, social expectations, and the constant pressure to be productive. In this busy world, the simple advice to “do more of what you love” can seem unrealistic or even indulgent. However, from a counselling perspective, this idea is far more than a motivational slogan. It is a powerful framework for emotional wellbeing, self-understanding, and sustainable personal growth. Choosing to do more o

The metaphor “your thoughts are like passing clouds” captures a gentle but powerful truth about the nature of the human mind. Just as clouds drift across the sky, forming, dissolving, changing shape, and moving on,our thoughts arise, linger for a moment, and eventually fade. This perspective encourages a healthier relationship with our inner world, reminding us that we are not defined by every idea, fear, or memory that temporarily appears in our consciousness. First, seeing

Becoming the best version of yourself isn't a straight line, it’s a journey with pauses, turns, and small victories along the way. Some days will feel lighter than others, and that’s okay. What matters is that you keep showing up for yourself. Remember: growth is happening, even when you can’t see it yet. 💛

Are you looking for a calm, compassionate space to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with yourself? Life in today’s world can feel overwhelming, juggling responsibilities, relationships, and expectations often leaves little room for your own wellbeing. At The Countryside Counsellor, I offer integrative counselling for adults , teenagers , and parents, bringing together a range of therapeutic approaches to support you as an individual. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, stre

Millennials are definitely shaking things up compared to their parents! While their folks often followed the classic script of snagging a stable job, buying a house, tying the knot, and starting a family, millennials are flipping the script on what adulting might look like. Blame it on the tech boom, wallet woes, and a shift in what folks value these days. When it comes to work, millennials are all about flexibility and finding their true calling instead of just clinging to j

We observe World Mental Health Day every year on October 10, but what actually is it and why do we recognise it? It really is more than...

As summer fades and autumn arrives, many embrace the changes that come with autumn. Leaves turn golden-brown, the air grows crisper, and...

Have you ever tried to have a sensitive conversation in a noisy café or felt comfortable enough to open up and be vulnerable in a cold,...

The start of a new school year brings with it a unique blend of excitement, anticipation, and sometimes anxiety, for both children and...

Whether you’re celebrating, feeling uncertain, or disappointed, remember this: your results are just one small chapter, not your whole...

We've all been there, or perhaps you're reading this and in the throes of it right now! Growing up is a complex journey, filled with...