A place to feel heard.
A space to be yourself.
Starting therapy can feel like a big step. You do not have to know where to begin, what to say or what you hope to achieve.
At A Positive Start CIC, we offer trauma-informed, person-centred counselling and psychotherapy for adults aged 18 and over.
We understand that reaching out for support can feel daunting, especially if previous experiences have left you feeling unheard, judged, rushed or misunderstood.
Our approach is gentle, collaborative and guided by your needs, experiences and choices. We work alongside you rather than expecting you to fit a particular model.
You do not need to be in crisis.
You do not need to have the right words.
You do not need to know exactly what is wrong.
You are welcome exactly as you are.
Your First Conversation
We offer a free 30-minute introductory telephone consultation for individual therapy.
This is an opportunity to ask questions, tell us a little about what brings you here and explore whether our support feels right.
Your Pace, Your Therapy
You will not be pressured to disclose more than feels comfortable.
Together, we can explore what you need and agree a way of working that respects your circumstances and preferences.
Our Therapeutic Approach
We recognise that lived experiences can shape our emotional responses, nervous systems, relationships and sense of safety.
We approach these experiences with compassion, curiosity and respect.
Ways to Access Support
We offer face-to-face and online appointments, including individual and couples support.
Reduced-fee, student counsellor and funded places may be available, subject to eligibility and capacity.
Therapy Without Judgement
At A Positive Start CIC, we believe the therapeutic relationship matters. Feeling heard, respected and understood can create opportunities for reflection, emotional safety and meaningful connection.
Our approach means:
- Recognising that experiences shape how we think, feel and respond.
- Prioritising emotional and relational safety.
- Working collaboratively and at your pace.
- Respecting your choices and boundaries.
- Exploring responses without judgement or unnecessary labels.
- Supporting greater understanding, confidence and self-connection.
Therapy is not about fixing you. It is about creating conditions in which understanding, choice and connection can grow.
Finding the Right Support
Individual Counselling & Therapy
A confidential space to explore emotions, experiences, relationships, life challenges and the things that matter to you.
Couples Counselling
A supportive environment for couples to explore patterns of communication, emotional safety, connection and relationship difficulties.
We take a balanced, non-blaming approach, respecting each person's experiences and perspective.
Student Counsellors
As a practicum placement provider, A Positive Start CIC supports student counsellors completing professional training.
Student counsellors receive professional supervision and offer supported-cost sessions, currently online.
Fees & Supported Places
As a Community Interest Company, income from our counselling services helps sustain our wider prevention, education and community support work.
Standard rate: £55 per session.
Six-session block: £300.
Standard rate: £75 per session.
Eight-session block: £560.
Twelve-session block: £900.
Student counsellors work within their level of training, receive professional supervision and follow the same organisational standards of confidentiality, care and professional practice. Our published counselling fees apply.
.Reduced-fee and funded support may be available, depending on eligibility, programme criteria and current capacity.
Fees and availability are confirmed before an appointment or therapy arrangement is agreed.
Making Support More Accessible
From time to time, funded counselling places become available through grants and community funding programmes.
Where places are available, we explain the eligibility criteria and referral arrangements clearly.
Funding cannot be assumed from a referral alone, and the availability of funded support will vary.
Our aim is to balance accessibility with the long-term sustainability of our services, so that support can continue within our community.
What Happens Next?
The first step for individual counselling is usually a free 30-minute introductory telephone consultation.
We can discuss what brings you to therapy, answer any questions and explore the support available.
Where appropriate, we will agree the type and structure of support together. Appointment arrangements are then confirmed through MyClientHub.
We will also explain confidentiality, its limits and relevant practical arrangements before therapy begins.
If you are not ready to begin, that is absolutely okay. Taking time to consider your options is a valid choice.
A Gentle Place to Begin
Therapy is a relationship, not simply a transaction.
Whether you're ready to begin, gathering information or exploring what feels right for you, you are welcome to take your time.
There is no expectation to have everything figured out before reaching out.
Ask Us a QuestionOur free introductory consultation registration is available below.
