Individual counselling in Barnsley
Fifty minutes that are yours, to make sense of how you're feeling and what to do about it.
When something needs to change
- You're struggling but can't quite put your finger on why
- You feel like you should be coping better, but you're not
- You've been putting off getting support because you don't know where to start
- You want somewhere to think, without feeling judged
A space that's entirely yours
We start wherever you are. Some people want to understand where something comes from; others want practical ways to feel steadier week to week. We'll work at a pace that suits you.
Counselling offers support and space to work things through. It isn't a medical treatment or a quick fix.
Book a free 10-minute callYou don't need a diagnosis, or to recognise every item. If something has been weighing on you for a while, that's reason enough to start.
The approach
I work integratively, which means I draw on more than one approach depending on what suits you. Often that's CBT for practical tools, alongside time to understand where things come from.
Counselling isn't a medical treatment and I can't promise a particular outcome. What you get is time, attention and an honest conversation about what might help, including whether a free service would suit you better.
If you would prefer to talk to a female counsellor, I'm Tracy Simpson. I'm a Registered Member of the BACP (45587) and an Accredited Registrant with the NCPS (NCS20-00911), and I work within the BACP Ethical Framework. I've been in practice for 16 years.
What happens in sessions
You can start with a free 10-minute call, or book a first session straight away. Sessions are 50 minutes, usually weekly to start, in private counselling rooms within the South Yorkshire Physiotherapy Centre, Day Street, Barnsley (S70 1NW), with free parking, or by secure video or telephone. There's no fixed number of sessions, and we review how things are going as we go.
Fees, no surprises
Start with a free 10-minute call, or book a session directly.
Registered to accept referrals from Bupa and Aviva. Please check any policy excess with your provider before booking.
I'm registered to accept referrals from Bupa and Aviva. Read how to use your health insurance.
Your options, in full
Private counselling with me is one option, not the only one. NHS Talking Therapies are free, and you can usually refer yourself if you're registered with a GP and aged 18 or over (16 in some areas). Barnsley Talking Therapies takes self-referrals on 01226 644900. Your GP is the place to start if you think you need a diagnosis or medication. If you're not sure what's right, that's what the free call is for.
Understanding what's happening
Why anxiety keeps coming back
The anxiety cycle, and how avoiding things keeps it going.
Learn more →What happens in a panic attack
Why it feels so frightening, and what helps in the moment.
Learn more →Low mood and doing less
How low mood and withdrawing feed each other.
Learn more →Signs of burnout
How burnout builds, and how to change course.
Learn more →How grief works
Why grief doesn't come in neat stages.
Learn more →When gambling becomes a problem
The signs, the chasing loop, and where to get help.
Learn more →Anger
How anger builds, what sits underneath, and what helps.
Learn more →Low self-esteem
Where the inner critic comes from, and what helps.
Learn more →High-functioning anxiety
When you seem fine on the outside but not inside.
Learn more →ADHD and anxiety
How they feed each other in adults, and what helps.
Learn more →What happens in counselling?
The free call, the first session, and what to expect after.
Learn more →Questions people ask
What is counselling?
Counselling is talking through what's troubling you with a trained professional who listens without judging and helps you make sense of it. It isn't advice and it isn't a medical treatment. Sessions are private, regular and focused on you. What happens in counselling.
What's the difference between counselling and therapy?
In the UK the words are often used for the same thing. Counselling sometimes means shorter work on a current problem, and psychotherapy longer, deeper work, but the line isn't fixed. Training, registration and whether you feel comfortable with the person matter more than the label.
How do I choose a counsellor?
The titles counsellor and therapist aren't protected by law. So check the person is on a register accredited by the Professional Standards Authority, such as the BACP's. Ask how they work and what they charge. Then notice how the first conversation feels. That's what the free call is for. The BACP Register.
What is integrative counselling?
It means I draw on more than one approach rather than one method for everyone. The relationship between us is the foundation. Within that, I might help you understand where a feeling comes from, or bring in practical tools, depending on what suits you. Therapeutic approaches.
How much does private counselling cost?
Individual sessions are £70 for 50 minutes, paid per session. The first phone call is free. If you have Bupa or Aviva cover, I'm registered to accept referrals from both. Fees.
Do I need a diagnosis or a GP referral?
No. You can book directly, including if you're using Bupa or Aviva health insurance.
How many sessions will I need?
There's no fixed number. Some people find a handful of sessions is enough; others come for longer. You can stop when it feels right.
Is it confidential?
Yes, within the standard limits of confidentiality, which I'll explain before we begin.
Can I come for relationship problems on my own?
Yes. Your partner doesn't have to come or know. Individual sessions are £70.
A first conversation, free
A short, relaxed call to see if it feels right.