Abi Ayre – Integrative Counsellor
I'm Abi Ayre, a qualified and registered counsellor offering a warm, compassionate and non-judgemental approach to therapy. I am registered with the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS) and am an accredited practitioner with EFT International, specialising in Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), also known as tapping.
My therapeutic training includes Person-Centred Therapy, Transactional Analysis, Gestalt and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). I take an integrative approach, drawing on different therapeutic methods and tailoring our sessions to you, your experiences and what you need from counselling. I don't believe there is a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy.
Alongside my counselling work, I bring over 20 years of experience within the healthcare sector. My professional background has given me a wealth of experience supporting people through different stages of life, often during challenging and vulnerable times. This has shaped my understanding of people, their experiences and the importance of feeling listened to, understood and respected.
I work with people experiencing a wide range of difficulties, including anxiety, depression, addiction, sexual abuse, domestic violence, low self-esteem, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, significant life changes and challenges with personal identity and growth.
My aim is to provide a safe space where you can talk openly, explore what's happening for you and begin to make sense of your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgement. Whether you're facing a particular difficulty, feeling stuck or simply wanting to understand yourself better, we'll work together at a pace that feels right for you.
I believe counselling is about more than simply reducing symptoms. It's also an opportunity to develop greater self-awareness, recognise unhelpful patterns, build resilience and reconnect with your own strengths. My role isn't to tell you what to do or provide all the answers, but to walk alongside you as you explore your own way forward.
A Little About Me
Outside of counselling, I love spending time with family and friends and getting outdoors. I'm happiest exploring the countryside or spending time by the sea. Autumn is my favourite season, Mexican food is always a favourite, and I have two much-loved cats, Luna, a Bluepoint Ragdoll, and Tallulah, a black domestic cat.
I have an eclectic taste in music, with a particular love of jazz, and enjoy meditation as a way of finding space to slow down and reconnect.
I think it's important that counselling feels like a human connection, not simply a professional appointment. I hope that getting to know a little about me helps you feel more comfortable taking that first step.
What people say about Abi
I wish I had sought counselling sooner and if I had known it would be with someone like Abi, I think I would have. I have learnt to talk about my feelings and communicate in a healthier way. Thank you for being so warm and kind and listening to me.
M.Z. (female 26 yrs)
