Hello, I'm Donna
I'm an integrative counsellor and offer counselling support in the Coleraine area, as well as online and by telephone throughout Northern Ireland and the UK.
I've always been someone people turn to for a listening ear. Over the years, I've seen how much it means to feel truly heard and supported. That's what led me to counselling, and it's what still drives my work today.
My background
I've worked with adults and young people across community, clinical and therapeutic settings. This includes more than 15 years in mental health and substance use services.
My experience covers mental health, dual diagnosis, substance use, harm reduction and recovery-focused support. I've worked with people facing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, neurodiversity, self-harm and complex needs.
Throughout my career, I've been especially committed to people who face exclusion, disadvantage or barriers to getting support. I believe everyone deserves to be understood and accepted, without fear of judgement.
Education
I have always been interested in people, their individual stories, and the experiences that make them who they are. This curiosity, alongside a genuine desire to understand and support others, has guided both my personal and professional journey. I hold a BSc (Hons) in Psychology, a Diploma in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), and a Postgraduate Certificate in Dual Diagnosis (Mental Health and Substance Use). Each course has deepened my understanding of the challenges that people may face and the importance of feeling heard, understood, and accepted.
My decision to study for the FdSc in Integrative Counselling Practice felt like a natural next step, bringing together my learning and experience with my passion for helping others. I believe that everyone has their own story, and that having a safe, compassionate space to explore thoughts and feelings, without fear of judgement, can make a meaningful difference. I continue to develop my understanding and skills so that I can offer a warm, empathetic, and respectful approach, recognising each person as an individual.
My approach
My approach to counselling is based on empathy, compassion and respect for your individual experience. I offer an integrative approach to counselling, drawing on my training and understanding of different therapeutic perspectives, including Person-Centred, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic, Motivational Interviewing and Solution-Focused theories.
I won't tell you how you should feel or what choices you should make. Instead, I will work alongside you to explore what is important to you, helping you to develop a deeper understanding of yourself and discover what moving forward might look like for you.
I believe that change doesn't have to happen all at once – sometimes it starts with making sense of something that has been painful for a long time.
And sometimes it's simply about being heard, understood and accepted for who you are.
I understand that behind behaviours and difficulties there is often a story. I approach that story with compassion and curiosity, never judgement.
Professional Membership
I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and my memberships reflects my commitment to ethical practice and ongoing professional development.
Supervision
I receive regular clinical supervision which enables me to reflect on my practice, develop my skills and ensures that I continue to work in a safe and ethical way with clients.
Confidentiality
Your privacy and confidentiality are extremely important to me. Everything you share will be treated with care and respect, except in circumstances where there may be serious concerns for your safety or for the safety of others, or where disclosure is required by law. Should this happen, wherever possible, I will always discuss this with you beforehand.
How we work together
What you can expect from working with me
- A warm, down-to-earth and genuine counsellor
- A safe, confidential and non-judgemental space
- Sessions shaped around your needs and goals
- Honesty, respect and professional, ethical practice
- Regular check-ins on how things are going for you
What I find most rewarding is walking alongside people as they grow in self-acceptance, resilience and hope.
Ready to take the first step?
If you'd like to find out whether we're a good fit, book a free 15-minute phone call. There's no pressure and no commitment.