Counselling & Psychotherapy
Counselling and psychotherapy offer a confidential, supportive space to explore what may be feeling difficult and develop a clearer understanding of your experiences.
At times, life can feel heavy or uncertain, whether you are coping with anxiety, low mood, stress, relationship challenges, past experiences, or a growing sense of being stuck. Therapy provides the opportunity to reflect, make sense of what is happening, and begin to move forward with greater clarity and steadiness.
Who counselling and therapy may support
People come to therapy for many different reasons. You may be considering counselling or psychotherapy if you are:
- feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or persistently on edge
- experiencing low mood, burnout, or loss of motivation
- struggling with confidence, self-esteem, or self-criticism
- finding relationships challenging — at home, socially, or at work
- navigating change, loss, or significant life transitions
- carrying the impact of earlier experiences
- seeking professional support for a child or young person
You do not need to have everything figured out before starting therapy. Many people simply begin with a sense that something needs support, understanding, or space to talk things through.
Assessment and how therapy works
Therapy begins with an assessment session. This provides space to explore what has been happening, how it is affecting you, and what you would like support with.
Together, we consider patterns across thoughts, emotions, behaviours, and physical responses, allowing us to develop a shared understanding and agree a clear way forward.
From there, you may choose an approach that feels most appropriate:
✔ Single sessions - focused support around a specific concern or decision
✔ Brief therapy - often between 6–12 sessions
✔ Longer-term therapy -for deeper or more longstanding difficulties
Progress is reviewed regularly so that therapy remains purposeful, supportive, and aligned with your needs.
Our approach and how we work
No two people are the same, and therapy should never feel one-size-fits-all.
Elena works integratively, drawing from a range of therapeutic approaches to ensure the work reflects your individual needs, preferences, and goals. This flexible way of working supports meaningful progress while allowing therapy to unfold at a pace that feels manageable.
Depending on what you bring, therapy may include:
✔ reflective exploration to better understand emotional patterns, relationships, and life experiences
✔ practical, evidence-informed strategies including CBT, to support with day-to-day coping
✔ developing emotional awareness and self-understanding
✔ strengthening confidence, resilience, and psychological wellbeing
Some people seek focused support around a specific difficulty, while others value longer-term therapy to explore deeper or longstanding experiences. The direction of the work is always agreed collaboratively.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between counselling and psychotherapy?
Counselling often focuses on current challenges and support in the present, while psychotherapy can provide a deeper space to explore patterns, relationships, and experiences over time. There is often overlap and the priority is finding an approach that supports you effectively.
How do I know which therapy is right for me?
You do not need to decide this alone. During the assessment session, Elena will explore what has been happening and recommend the most appropriate way of working before agreeing a plan with you.
What happens in the first session?
The first step is an assessment session. This is an opportunity to talk through what is bringing you to therapy, how it is affecting daily life, and what you hope may change. There is also space for questions before next steps are agreed.
How many sessions will I need?
This varies depending on your goals. Some people benefit from brief therapy, while others prefer longer-term support. A minimum of six sessions is often helpful, with progress reviewed at regular intervals.
Do you offer sessions online as well as in person?
Yes. Counselling and psychotherapy sessions are available in our private clinic in Hebden Bridge and online, allowing you to choose the format that feels most comfortable and practical.
Counselling and Psychotherapy in Hebden Bridge and Online
A calm, confidential space to explore experiences and make sense of what’s been difficult. Appointments are available in person or online.
If you need urgent emotional support, you do not have to face it alone. You can contact NHS on 111 free 24 hrs a day. In an emergency, please call 999.