With Abbey Brocklehurst

Minds That Matter Counselling

About Me

Hiya! I’m Abbey, a bubbly, straight-talking, person-centred counsellor from Liverpool. I’m passionate about helping people untangle life’s messy moments and reconnect with their true selves.

First off, I just want to say well done. Reaching out for counselling can feel very scary, and you’ve already taken that first brave step by being here. Finding the right counsellor can feel a bit overwhelming, so I thought I’d share a bit about me to help you decide if I am a good fit for you.

Like many counsellors, my path started from my own experience of struggling with mental health when I was younger. Having the right therapist back then helped me rebuild my sense of self, and that’s what inspired me to want to do the same for others. I have a diagnosis of AuDHD (that’s Autism + ADHD), so I know what it’s like when your brain doesn’t quite fit the “standard settings”! Whether you’re neurodivergent, figuring things out, or just trying to make sense of a chaotic world we live in, you’ll find no judgment here, just empathy, compassion, and a dash of my Scouse humour.

I offer a calm, supportive, confidential space where you can explore whatever’s going on for you: anxiety, depression, burnout, shame, guilt, grief, identity, or even that “lost” feeling you can’t quite name. I work collaboratively with you at your pace, because therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s about finding what works for you. I strive to establish a trusting and supportive relationship with my clients, built on empathy, respect, and authenticity. This relationship forms the foundation for our work together, helping clients feel comfortable opening up and exploring their concerns, and probably having a bit of a laugh along the way.

What I can help with

Abuse
Addictions
Anxiety
Childhood Trauma
Chronic Health Conditions
Depression
Difficulties with Self-Esteem
Domestic Violence
Grief, Loss, or Bereavement
Life Transitions
Post Separation Abuse
Relationship Difficulties
Sexual Abuse and Trauma
Stress
Suicidal thoughts and ideation
Workplace Issues

These are just a few examples of areas I work with; if you want to explore something not listed above, we can discuss this during your consultation.

Session fees

I charge £45 for online sessions or £50 for face-to-face sessions, both lasting 50 minutes. Concessionary rates are available for students and individuals on low incomes or receiving benefits. We will agree on payment methods during our first meeting.

How I deliver therapy

I offer face-to-face counselling in West Derby Village (with free parking available and wheelchair accessibility), as well as online and phone sessions for those who prefer flexibility. Even if you’re not tech-savvy, I’ll make sure the online side of things feels simple and stress-free. Sessions are open-ended and completely tailored to you; you decide how long you’d like to continue.

"You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose."
— Dr. Seuss

My first session

I offer a free 20-minute introductory phone call. This is an opportunity to introduce ourselves, chat about what has brought you here, and address any questions you may have to ensure I am the right therapist for you. You can book this call easily through my website on the"Request Consultation" page.

If you decide to continue with me, our first session is all about getting to know you. We’ll go through a few basic details, and then I’ll open up the conversation so we can chat about what brought you to counselling and what you might want to get out of it. Don’t worry if you’re not sure yet; lots of people aren’t when they start, and that’s absolutely fine.

Feeling comfortable is key. Part of starting counselling is understanding how confidentiality works and the boundaries around our sessions. We’ll go through all of that together in your first session so you know exactly what to expect. I follow the BACP ethical code of conduct, which basically means I put you first, work to professional standards, show respect, keep things appropriate, and always act with integrity. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, valued, and free to explore whatever’s on your mind.

Training, qualifications & experience

I hold a first-class degree in BSc (Hons) Psychology with Counselling, and a distinction in MA in Counselling and Psychotherapy Practice. I’m a registered member (409805) of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and continually update my skills through ongoing training to ensure my expertise remains current and I can effectively support clients with the challenges they face.

Before starting my private practice, I spent four years volunteering as a listener with charities such as Samaritans and Childline, which provided me with invaluable experience working with a wide range of issues. I’ve also worked with various non-profit organisations in the Merseyside area alongside my private practice, supporting individuals in different ways. I regularly take part in clinical supervision and training as part of my professional development, and I’m fully insured and hold an enhanced DBS. All of this ensures I can provide a safe, skilled, and supportive space for the people I work with.