Kirsty Kelly

I am currently accepting new clients and have availability across the week. My working hours are mainly during the daytime with some evening and weekend appointments available. Please ask if you require a particular day or time and I will do my best to accommodate your needs. Email is the best way to contact me but if you'd prefer give me a call and if I am unavailable, leave me a message and I will aim to get back to you within 24hours. 

Hi there, I’m Kirsty. Thank you for taking the time to read about me and what I can offer…

I am a BACP registered, experienced counsellor with a BA honours Psychology degree and a Post Graduate diploma in Therapeutic Counselling.

There are many reasons why you may be considering accessing therapy, whether it be for support with a life changing event, you are feeling sad, anxious, stressed, or simply overwhelmed by everything life is throwing your way and feel you need to find clarity and direction.

 I offer support to adults, adolescents and children with a range of issues in person from my office in York as well as online and over the telephone.

It can be scary and lonely in difficult times and therapy may feel like a daunting prospect. I know from personal experience that it takes a lot of courage to ask for help and seek support, but I offer a safe, friendly, supportive environment where together we can explore what is going on for you, without judgement.

I understand that painful experiences and difficult situations are hard to talk about. For me, counselling is about developing a respectful, trusting relationship where you feel fully heard and understood and able to explore those uncomfortable thoughts and feelings at a pace that feels appropriate.

My aim is to work alongside you as you embark on your journey towards self- acceptance and fulfilment.

Prior to working in private practice, I volunteered at a Women’s Counselling service where I gained experience of working with issues including depression, relationship difficulties, trauma and abuse.

I've also worked for the City of York Council supporting care experienced young adults struggling with attachment disorder, loss, anxiety, low self -esteem, self-harm, pregnancy related issues and PTSD. 

My work with United Response in York gave me insight into the difficulties people with disabilities face from frustrations about being heard, accessing appropriate care to struggles with depression and low self esteem.

My office is based at Tower Court, Clifton Moor, York just off the A1237 ring road so it is easily accessible with good public transport links. For those travelling by car, free parking is available.

I offer online sessions and telephone counselling for those unable to travel or feel virtual support is more appealing and beneficial.

The foundation of my approach is Humanistic, drawing particularly on Person Centred Therapy. Through our unique relationship and a range of therapeutic skills I will tailor the work to suit your individual needs. I sometimes work creatively to gain new insights and explore what you may find hard to put into words and I might offer you gentle challenge where appropriate. 

Deciding to access counselling is a big step and choosing the right counsellor to work with is crucial to the success of the therapy. It is important that you feel safe and comfortable with me to get the most out of your sessions and therefore I offer a free, no obligation, twenty minute telephone call to see if you feel I am the right counsellor for you. 

During our telephone call we will discuss your reasons for accessing counselling, how you hope counselling may help you and the goals you would like to achieve. It will also give you the opportunity to get to know me and ask me any questions you may have.

Counselling may be over a few weeks or last over a year so we will review the work regularly to ensure that you continue to feel comfortable and the work remains beneficial.