Zoe Barton - Profile

My counselling practice is based very much on the belief that we all have our own unique life experiences and understanding about ourselves, others and the world around us. I work on the principle that you are the expert in your own life and if given the right support and conditions, you will grow in confidence and ability not only to self-reflect but also to understand, connect with and express a greater range of emotions.

Sometimes, we tell ourselves that our troubling thoughts or upsetting feelings are not important enough to bother others, they will eventually disappear, or that people cope with worse. Or perhaps, the opposite of this, that the impact of life experiences has resulted in distressing thoughts and feelings that are too great a burden for others to bear.

As a counsellor, practicing what is often known as ‘talking therapy’, I work alongside my clients to support the process of self-understanding and change.

We will go at your pace, working towards your goals for therapy, with regular reviews. My role in our relationship will be to listen actively and empathically, without judgement or advice-giving, offering reflection and supportive challenge at the right time.

I have extensive experience in working to support adults and teenagers living with anxiety, depression and other common mental health issues, often whilst managing challenging life events such as relationship breakdown, illness and bereavement.

I continue to work for the same youth counselling agency where I completed my initial training and am passionate about providing mental health support not only to teenagers and young adults but also to parents, carers and professionals involved in the care of children.

I have also worked as a counsellor in secondary schools and for the brain injury charity, Headway supporting brain-injured adult clients, partners, other family members and carers.

I was a teacher for many years, with experience in special needs and have also spent time working with the local children’s services as an intensive family support worker.