Maria Coyle

I currently have availability both in-person and online.

I am a Gestalt Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor and also trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I have many years experience working with people of all ages and from diverse backgrounds who have needed support to enable them to manage difficult feelings and live a more fulfilling life.

I offer gay affirmative therapy and work with LGBTQI (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, gender non-conforming and non binary) people and others who are struggling with their identity.

I have experience of working with people who have been affected by COVID or Coronavirus Disease. I have suppported clients through bereavement during the lockdown periods and also those who have given birth during those times too. The stresses and isolation during these periods being magnified as a result.

My Approach

I integrate Mindfulness practice and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) to my work with clients. I offer short or long term work. The basis for my approach is talking therapy and may include creative expression, relational therapy or goal orientated in accordance with your needs. I may use language, dream-work, art, music, objects, visualization, metaphor, empty chair or fantasy depending on what areas you would like to explore.

My main approach is Gestalt and I also hold person centred values. I integrate Motivational Interviewing and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) where needed. I offer sessions as a Counsellor, Clinical Supervisor, Group Facilitator and Trainer.

Dip. Counselling. Dip. Supervision. My counselling experience includes working with people affected by mental health issues, anxiety, depression, problems with intimacy, sexuality, domestic abuse, sexual abuse, fertility, post natal depression, addiction, relationships, eating disorders, trauma, bereavement and has knowledge of 12-Step and recovery programmes. 

I am also a Trainer and provide Continuing Professional Development for counsellors and other professionals.  

My own positive experience of counselling and group work has motivated me to help others with their struggles and to support them to live their lives in accordance with their own values. 

I have experienced different therapeutic approaches at different times in my life and believe that 'one shoe does not fit all.' Therefore, I work with people on an individual basis and tailor the therapy to their needs. 

I also believe that part of the healing process is in the therapeutic relationship between the counsellor and the client. I am open and honest with my clients and do my best to really understand their whole experience and without judgement. 

I support people with a range of issues including anxiety, addiction, depression, phobias, anger, family issues, relationship issues, divorce, feeling sad, fertility, infertility, pregnancy, birth stories, maternal mental health and identity issues.

I work one to one with individuals and facilitate therapeutic groups.

I work creatively and incorporate mindfulness techniques to provide individual counselling and facilitate group work, including Healthy Relationships, Understanding Your Anger and Living More Authentically. I have a very good understanding of 12 Step and recovery programmes.

I offer face to face sessions and online sessions.

Sessions last for 50 minutes and take place once a week on the same day and at the same time.

Alternative arrangements are available if agreed in advance.

Sessions are £65 each. I have concessionary rates available to  support those affected by the cost of living crisis. 

I offer individual and group supervision. I work primarily with Gestalt and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy models in a Humanistic way. I supervise counsellors from many different theoretical backgrounds. Student discounts available.

My experience includes providing both management supervision and in the last 5 years clinical supervision. As well as qualified counsellors and psychotherapists, I also supervise those still in training. 

I have experience of working with adults and young people for over 15 years. My experience includes working with people affected by mental health issues, depression, stress, intimacy problems, sexuality, identity, abuse, anxiety, fertility / infertility, post natal depression, relationships, eating disorders, trauma, anger, bereavement, HIV, addictions and have knowledge of 12-Step and recovery programmes. I work creatively and provide individual counselling and facilitate group work, including relationships, understanding anger and self esteem. I offer gay affirmative therapy and work with LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) and non-binary people. I also have experience working with clients identifying as poly-amorous. 

I work for two charities and have a small private practice in Brighton. I supervise counsellors working with addiction, mental health issues, perinatal mental health issues, domestic violence, children with family members in active addiction and I provide various CPD days for counsellors. I supervise counsellors from a range of theoretical backgrounds. 

I work face to face in central Hove. 2nd floor without a lift so unfortunately, not accessible for those experiencing mobility issues. 

I also offer online sessions via Zoom. 

Your first supervision will be charged at the full rate of £65 per session. If there are any reduced concessions available we can discuss and agree them then.