A space where you are heard, as you are
Have you ever wondered whether what you’re feeling is “enough” to ask for help? Maybe you’re functioning on the outside but feel overwhelmed, stuck, or exhausted on the inside. Maybe you’ve been telling yourself you should be coping better—or that others have it worse.
I’m Gemma, and I provide a confidential, compassionate space for people to talk, reflect, and make sense of the challenges they’re facing.
Based in Edinburgh, I am a fully qualified person-centred counsellor with a BSc (Hons) from Abertay University and PgDip from the University of Aberdeen. I support individuals through a wide range of emotional and life challenges, offering a compassionate and person-centred approach. Alongside my private practice, I volunteer with Cruse Scotland as a counsellor, supporting people after loss.
My experience
I have worked with clients experiencing grief, divorce and separation, relationship and work-related difficulties, depression and anxiety, trauma, and issues around self-confidence and self-esteem. I aim to offer a warm, non-judgemental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace. There is no pressure to share anything you are not ready to — building trust takes time, and that process is respected. I understand that coming to counselling takes courage, and I appreciate how difficult it can be to open up and talk about painful or overwhelming feelings. I want you to know that you are not alone in this journey. Outside of counselling I enjoy exploring new places, curling up with a book and taking photos of cobbled streets with character.
Registered member of the National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society (NCPS4655)
This means I work to recognised professional and ethical standards, with your safety, confidentiality, and wellbeing at the heart of my practice. Being NCPS registered reflects my commitment to providing thoughtful therapy in a supportive and respectful space.
What is Person-Centred Therapy?
Person-centred therapy is a way of working that puts you at the centre of the process.
The core belief is that you already have an inner ability to understand yourself, grow, and move toward what’s right for you. Therapy isn’t about being “fixed” or told what to do — it’s about creating the right conditions so that your own understanding and change can emerge.
What person-centred therapy feels like
- We focus on what matters to you.
- We move at your pace.
- There is no judgement, diagnosis or agenda placed on you.
- There is no pressure to have all of the answers or to set goals.
- The space is for you to take time to explore and reflect on things.
My role as therapist
- Rather than giving advice or analysing you, I focus on 3 qualities.
- Genuine presence, being real and open with you.
- Empathy - deeply trying to understand how the world feels from your point of view.
- Acceptance - respecting you as you are, without judgement.
How change happens
Change happens through being understood, not pushed.
As you talk and feel heard, many people begin to
- Understand themselves more clearly.
- Feel more trusting of their own feelings.
- Let go of harsh self-judgment.
- Discover their own direction and choices.
What person-centred therapy is not
It is not
- Advice-giving or problem-solving therapy.
- Being told what’s “wrong” with you.
- Being directed toward specific outcomes.
- A one-size-fits-all approach.
Who it can help
It can be helpful if you
- Want space to talk freely and feel heard.
- feel unsure about what you need and want.
- struggle with confidence. and how you view yourself
- want to understand yourself more deeply.
- prefer a gentle and respectful approach.
Put simply
Person-centred therapy is about:
- Being heard
- Being accepted
- Being supported to find your own way
The relationship itself becomes the space where growth happens.
Your guide to begining counselling: sessions and fees
Sessions
- Sessions last 1 hour
- Sessions usually take place weekly, unless we agree otherwise.
- Sessions are primarily online by Teams, however if you prefer face to face, please contact me to discuss this option.
Fees
Online - £50
Face to face - £55
I understand that therapy can be a financial commitment. A limited number of lower-fee sessions are available for students or anyone facing financial difficulties—please reach out to discuss your needs.
Cancellations
I understand that life happens. If you need to cancel or reschedule a session, please provide at least 48 hours notice by sending me an email. Cancellations made with less than the required notice, or missed appointments, are non-refundable.