Fiona Hester

I don't offer sessions during the evenings or weekends.

Looking for counselling but not keen on the intensity of the therapy room or perhaps you find eye contact uncomfortable? Why not try walking and talking therapy?

As an outdoor counsellor, I believe in the powerful connection between our emotions and nature and the outdoors. Sessions take place at Ashton Court in Bristol offering an alternative to traditional therapy rooms. The combination of fresh air, movement, and therapeutic conversation helps facilitate emotional release, offering a new perspective and creating a position for growth and change. 'Being in nature helps you to feel connected to the present when you’re spending a lot of time thinking about the past.' (Cruse Bereavement Support). The benefits of being in nature to our mental wellbeing is well documented; the mental health charity MIND offers ways in which to bring nature into your life: How nature benefits mental health - Mind.

My clients comment that the decreased amount of eye contact when walking side by side lessens the intensity which may be experienced during a counselling session. We can walk and work at whatever pace suits you. Long and short term work is possible.

I work from a person-centred perspective, which means that you are at the heart of our sessions. My role is to listen, support, and guide you, empowering you to find your own solutions. I also incorporate elements of cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and other evidence-based techniques tailored to your unique needs.

How I Can Help:

Provide a safe, confidential space to share your thoughts and feelings

Equip you with coping mechanisms and tools to manage stress, anxiety, and emotional distress

Help you gain clarity on relationships and life transitions

Empower you to live more authentically, embracing your strengths and uniqueness

With experience in supporting clients across a range of challenges—including bereavement, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, menopause, and family matters—I offer a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your feelings and discover ways to cope, move forward, and thrive.

I have supported numerous clients over the phone, which can be a helpful option for individuals facing mobility challenges, dealing with extreme weather, or when time is limited. This approach may also work well for those feeling anxious or hesitant about beginning therapy. Additionally, I offer home visits, which can be a convenient solution for various situations.

I welcome people from all backgrounds, faiths, cultures, genders and sexual orientation.

I offer a free 20 minute telephone consultation to give you the opportunity to ask me any questions and get a feel for how we might work together. I will then email you a registration form, an assessment form and a contract to be completed before we first meet outside or speak on the 'phone.