Kirsty Payne

I offer a range of online, face to face and telephone appointments. Appointment availability and times can be discussed during the initial consultation. 

I hold a Level 4 diploma in person centred counselling and am a registered member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy). I have further experience offering trauma therapy, which allowed me to develop a robust ability to hold a wide range of presenting issues. The way I work has developed into a more directive approach, using an integrative set of tools - with a strong foundation in the person centred approach.

Person-centred therapy works with the idea that the client is the expert in themselves and their life. The therapist’s role is to metaphorically walk alongside the client, rather than lead from the front. The aim is to provide a safe space, allowing a person the opportunity to explore their thoughts and feelings – without judgement and without advice. Those words will be heard, held, and respected.

When starting the counselling process, someone is starting that journey of being curious of who they; exploring patterns in behaviour and developing understanding of where those patterns come from.

This journey does not have a finish line, so I do not sit in the counsellor’s chair as someone who has ‘completed’ their work. I sit there as an advocate for the process and true believer in the change that can be achieved.

Sessions are tailored to your individual needs – short term, long term, goal orientated or taking it week by week. Maybe you know specifically what you would like to work on. Maybe you just need space to offload. The counselling experience is as unique as the person engaging in it.

I offer a free 20 minute consultation via phone, giving you the opportunity to ask any questions and find out if I am the right counsellor for you.

I offer online or telephone sessions to anyone within the UK. I also offer face to face session in Tonbridge, Kent. Sessions are 50 minutes.

The first session is used to start the conversation of what has bought you to counselling, what you hope to gain from the process and what you may need from me as your counsellor. Throughout the duration of working together, I ensure there are regular reviews. The allows for discussion identifying progress so far, further areas to work on and any change in goals for the therapy.