Why My Specialism Matters

Many counsellors work as generalists, supporting people across a wide range of life stages and difficulties. That can be helpful for some.

My work is different because I specialise in supporting women who feel stretched between the competing demands of family, work, and friendships, while also navigating significant life transitions.

These are often capable, caring women who are outwardly managing — but inwardly feel depleted, unsettled, or unsure of themselves.

Here’s why that focus matters.

You don’t have to explain the strain

With a generalist counsellor, you may find yourself spending time explaining:

  • The constant balancing act between work, family, and social relationships

  • The guilt of feeling like you’re letting someone down wherever you are

  • The pressure to stay strong and “get on with it”

  • The sense that life has shifted, but you’re not sure who you are now

In my work, this context is already understood. We can move more quickly into what your experience is like and what you need from this space.

I understand complex life transitions

Many of the women I work with are moving through one or more major transitions at the same time, such as:

  • Identity shifts and changes in priorities

  • Bereavement or other significant losses

  • New roles or fresh starts at work

  • Perimenopause or menopause and their emotional impact

Because this is the core of my practice, I’m attuned to how these transitions overlap and intensify one another — and how easily women can lose their sense of ground during these periods.

Support that fits real, full lives

Generalist counselling can sometimes feel detached from the realities of busy, demanding lives.

My work is shaped around the fact that you may be:

  • Time-poor and emotionally stretched

  • Carrying responsibility for others

  • Trying to stay connected to friends while managing exhaustion

  • Looking for support that feels purposeful, not indulgent

We work in a way that respects your capacity and focuses on changes that are realistic and sustainable.

A shared language and deeper understanding

Women often tell me it feels different to talk with someone who already understands phrases like:

  • “I don’t know which part of my life needs attention first”

  • “I feel pulled in too many directions”

  • “Everything has changed, but I’m still expected to be the same”

  • “I don’t want to fall apart — I just need some space to think”

That shared understanding helps clients feel seen and understood more quickly.

Ethical, focused, and intentional work

Choosing to specialise is an ethical decision. It means working within an area of genuine competence, staying informed and reflective, and offering support that is appropriate to the client’s needs.

I work within the BACP Ethical Framework, and my special interest in supporting women through complex life transitions guides how carefully and thoughtfully I approach this work.

Choosing the right counsellor for you

There’s no single “right” counsellor — only what feels right for you.

If you’re a woman feeling stretched across different parts of your life, while quietly navigating change beneath the surface, working with someone who understands this landscape may make all the difference.

You’re very welcome to get in touch and explore whether this feels like the right space for you.

Next
Next

Why I Work Online Only with Clients Based in the UK