Hi there, I'm Kristy.

I chose the name 'Small Steps Counselling' very deliberately, because that's how I believe we heal - one small step at a time. It's a philosophy for me, not just a catchy business name. What I've learned personally throughout my life, as well as during my career, is that breaking down overwhelming challenges into more manageable pieces is not simply a strategy – it's a consistent, intentional way of creating sustainable, lasting change. For me, every step you take towards healing, matters. Regardless the direction of the steps - whether forward, sideways, backwards or zig-zagged - movement equals progress, and progress leads to healing.

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My Personality and Approach

My clients and colleagues often describe me as quiet, thoughtful, patient, knowledgeable, open-minded and down-to-earth. These attributes tend to mean I bring a relaxed, calm, caring and understanding presence to my practice. Whilst personally I would also add funny to the list, I save my humour in sessions for when it's appropriate! The rapport that builds between my clients and I is a priority. At all times during our work together, my aim is that clients feel truly heard, accepted and understood.

 

My Area of Therapeutic Interest

I help new and emerging counsellors to process the emotions and challenges that come up in their personal life, so they can show up fully present, attuned and confident in their client sessions. I've walked this path myself, so I deeply understand that while you're learning to care for others, it's crucial to have your own space for personal growth and emotional and mental wellbeing.

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Through my own journey, and my work with new counsellors, I've experienced and seen how personal challenges, stress, overwhelm and life's difficult happenings can impact your emotional landscape and at times bleed through to client work. Whether you're dealing with study pressures, personal relationships, anxiety, past trauma or uncertain life transitions, having dedicated support for your own mental health is essential – not just for your wellbeing, but to ensure you can be fully present and capable for your clients. 

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My approach recognises that to be an effective counsellor, you need to first take care of yourself. I provide a trusting, confidential, judgement-free space where you can explore your own personal experiences, emotions and challenges, that's completely separate from your professional environment.

 

Why I Chose to Do This Type of Counselling Work

My interest for supporting new and emerging counsellors grew from my own experiences during my counselling education. I quite often noticed that while students and new practitioners were intently focused on developing their professional skills and knowledge, many weren't getting the personal emotional support they needed for themselves.

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From both my own journey and through supporting others, I've seen that counsellors need:

• A discreet, nonjudgemental place to process their own life experiences and emotions

• Assistance with managing the emotional weight of holding client stories

• Support in managing personal stress and preventing burnout

• Help in maintaining healthy boundaries between their personal life and therapeutic work

• Guidance in processing their own trauma or triggers that may arise during or post session

• A compassionate space to process personal grief or loss while supporting others through similar experiences

• A place where they can be the client and focus solely on their own wellbeing

 

This insight led me to create this specialised counselling practice where new and emerging (or experienced practising) counsellors can receive the personal support they desire and deserve. Just as you provide a safe space for your clients, I'm here to provide that same nurturing, understanding environment for you.

 

My Assurance to You

I won't simply tell you what worked for me in the past and assume that will also work for you – instead, I'll draw on my academic training and my professional and lived experiences to help you discover your own path forward. Whether you're a student or newly practising counsellor, I'm here to be your confidant, ally and biggest cheerleader as you navigate both your personal growth and your professional journey.

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Ready to take those first Small Steps together?