Counsellor & Psychotherapist, MBACP - Leek - Vanessa

	Counselling and Psychotherapy Leek Leek
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Vanessa | Counsellor & Psychotherapist, MBACP

Counselling and Psychotherapy Leek

When things feel difficult between you, it can touch something deep and unsettling. Conflict may leave one or both of you feeling overwhelmed, panicky or afraid of losing the relationship. You might notice a strong urge to fix things straight away, to seek reassurance or to pull away to protect yourself. These reactions can feel frightening or confusing, but they make sense, often they’re shaped by past experiences and tender places rather than a sign that something is “wrong” with your relationship. With support, these patterns can be understood and softened.

In couples therapy, we create space to slow things down. You don’t have to have the right words or know how to explain yourselves perfectly. Together, we gently explore what’s happening beneath the surface, helping you feel safer, more heard and more emotionally connected. Even long-standing patterns can begin to shift when both partners feel understood rather than blamed.

For some couples, closeness itself feels risky. One of you may need space when emotions rise, while the other longs for connection, reassurance, or repair. This push-pull dynamic can be painful, yet it often reflects two people trying, in different ways, to protect what matters most. In therapy, we work towards helping you recognise these cycles with compassion, so you can find new ways of staying connected that honour both your need for closeness and your need for autonomy.

Relationships are shaped by many layers, family histories, previous relationships, parenting pressures, and the stresses of everyday life. You may be carrying hurt, distance, or uncertainty about how to move forward together. Therapy offers a calm, supportive space where both of you can be heard, rebuild trust, and begin to feel more hopeful about your relationship again. Change doesn’t have to be dramatic or rushed, it can happen gently, step by step, as you learn to understand yourselves and each other with greater care and kindness.

Many couples worry that things are “too broken” or that they’ve left it too late, but meaningful change is possible. With care, patience, and support, patterns that once felt stuck can begin to soften. Therapy isn’t about deciding who’s right or wrong; it’s about helping you understand each other more deeply, repair what’s been hurt, and reconnect in ways that feel safer, more secure, and more loving. Even small shifts can create real relief and open the door to hope, closeness, and a renewed sense of “us.”

Qualifications and registrations

BSc Degree in Psychology & Child Development
Level 5 Diploma in Counselling Children and Young People
Graduate Certificate in Counselling Adults
Certificate in Online and Telephone Counselling
Level 7 Post Graduate Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling
Continued Professional Development Courses undertaken regularly, in areas such as: Trauma, Attachment, Relationships, Couples Therapy, Domestic Violence, Parenting, ADHD, OCD, Grief and many more

Registrations

I offer therapy in

✓ English

Specialisations

1. Communication problems
2. Conflict resolution
3. Intimacy and connection issues
4. Trust and jealousy
5. ADHD in relationships
6. Trauma and impact on couples
7. Emotional regulation difficult
8. Attachment & bonding struggles
9. Parenting stress
10. Balancing independence

Specialisations and Expertises

Fields of expertise & specialisms
I specialise in couples therapy, supporting partners to navigate conflict, rebuild trust, and deepen emotional connection. My approach is trauma-informed and attachment-based, with particular experience working with couples where one or both partners have ADHD or have experienced trauma. Together, we explore how these experiences affect communication, emotional regulation, intimacy, and relational patterns.

Most treated issues
Common concerns include repeated arguments, emotional overwhelm or withdrawal, trust and jealousy, challenges with intimacy, managing ADHD-related differences in attention and impulsivity, balancing independence and connection, and navigating the impact of trauma on relationships. Many couples seek therapy when they feel stuck in cycles of misunderstanding or want to create a safer, more supportive partnership.

Expected number of sessions
Couples therapy typically involves between 8 to 20 sessions, depending on your goals and the complexity of issues. Some couples benefit from shorter-term work focused on specific challenges, while others choose longer-term support to build deeper understanding and lasting change. We will pace therapy to fit what feels right and manageable for both of you.

Most common issues I support people with:

Top 5 Relationship Issues I Support People With

Communication Difficulties
Many couples struggle to express their feelings or needs clearly, leading to misunderstandings, frustration, or withdrawal. I help couples develop healthier ways to talk, listen, and feel truly heard.
Conflict and Repeated Arguments
Ongoing fights can leave both partners feeling stuck, hurt, or disconnected. Together, we explore the underlying patterns and emotions that fuel these conflicts, working towards resolution and peace.
Trust and Jealousy
Whether trust has been broken or there’s a fear of betrayal, these feelings can deeply affect intimacy and safety. I support couples in rebuilding trust and addressing insecurities with compassion.
Intimacy and Emotional Connection
Many couples find it hard to maintain closeness, whether due to emotional distance, past trauma, or busy lives. We explore what intimacy means for you and how to create deeper connection.
ADHD and Neurodiversity in Relationships
ADHD can bring unique challenges like impulsivity, distractibility, or emotional overwhelm that impact relationships. I work with couples to understand these dynamics and build strategies that foster understanding and support.

Fees

Monday to Friday 9AM-5PM

£95 (75 Minutes)

Evenings and Weekends

£110 (75 Minutes)

Availability (Opening hours)

Monday	9AM-7PM
Tuesday	9AM-3PM
Wednesday	2PM-7PM
Thursday	-
Friday	9AM-7PM
Saturday	9AM-12PM
Sunday	-

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