Hello, I’m Saara, and I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can
openly discuss any concerns or challenges you are experiencing. I am a
qualified BACP counsellor, holding a Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling and
Psychotherapy. I provide one-to-one counselling sessions to adults.
I specialise in integrative counselling. This means I work holistically, using a
blend of therapeutic techniques and approaches to best suit you.
I understand that coming to counselling can sometimes feel daunting. I
always work at your pace and will listen deeply, working alongside you to
support you in feeling accepted and comfortable in the space.
Here are just a few of the issues I can support you with:
• Exploring patterns in your behaviour to identify barriers that might be
preventing you from reaching your goals. This can help you make positive
changes in your life.
• Exploring relationship dynamics, exploring healthy boundaries with
yourself and others.
• Overthinking, burnout, stress, and other common symptoms related to
anxiety.
• Self-esteem and confidence-related issues. This includes exploring internal
dialogue and factors that might be influencing this. This can help you create
self-compassion and acceptance.
• Lack of motivation, low mood, isolation, and other depression-related
symptoms.
• Experiences of loss, grief, and other life transitions, including
health-related issues.
• Connecting more deeply with your feelings to help you process emotions
more effectively. This can help you connect more deeply with your inner
self.
Being person-centred means that we work at your pace, building a strong
therapeutic relationship and using techniques that best support your goals. I
listen deeply and without judgement, creating a safe and comfortable space
for you to explore your experiences.
My approach is integrative and shaped around your individual needs. I
trained as an integrative counsellor, which means I draw from a range of
therapeutic approaches rather than working from just one model. Please
note that I have not been specifically trained in each of these modalities
separately, as my training was integrative.
To support overthinking and anxiety, I often use CBT-informed techniques to
help you develop practical coping strategies. When it feels helpful to
explore past experiences, including childhood and relationship patterns that
may still be affecting you today, I draw on psychodynamic ideas.
Alongside these approaches, I also draw on other therapeutic concepts
depending on your individual needs and goals.
My background and experience
I hold a Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy from the
University of East London, as well as a Master’s degree in Social Work.
Previously, I worked as a Social Work Reflective Practice Practitioner,
supporting social workers with self-reflection and wellbeing.
I am currently undertaking Clinical Supervision training with Headstrong
Academy.
I value inclusivity and recognise that we are all unique, with our own
identities and lived experiences. I strive to sensitively understand your
culture, beliefs, values, and identities, as well as any other factors that are
important to you, in order to create a safe, respectful, and inclusive
therapeutic space.
I offer a free 15-minute telephone consultation where we can discuss if I’m
a good fit for you. I can tell you a bit more about how I work, and answer
any questions you might have. You don’t need to share too much, I might
just ask some questions about the support you’re seeking. If you decided
you’d like us to work together, we will then arrange the first session.
Sessions are always 50 minutes long, during the first session, we will explore
your thoughts and feelings about therapy, discuss your expectations and
goals, and address any questions you may have.
Before the first session, I will send you my client contract, confidentiality
and privacy statement, and online therapy guidelines, which we will review
together during the session.
