Sam Vann Counselling

I’m a qualified therapeutic counsellor offering a warm, calm and non-judgemental space where you can be yourself and explore whatever feels important to you. I believe that the relationship between counsellor and client is at the heart of therapy, and that feeling heard, understood and accepted can create the space for meaningful change.

My experience includes working with a range of difficulties, including anxiety, depression, addiction and recovery, relationship issues including coercive control, loss, trauma, life transitions, loneliness and low self-esteem. My background also includes support work across schools and the voluntary sector, supporting young adults, people experiencing homelessness, and people affected by addiction. These experiences have reinforced for me the importance of being listened to with patience, compassion and without judgement, particularly at times when life feels difficult or overwhelming.

I am a Registered Member of the British Association for Counsellors and Psychotherapists (MBACP).

As a person-centred integrative counsellor my approach is collaborative, relational and non-directive. This means that I won’t tell you what you should do or give you solutions. Instead, I’ll work alongside you to explore what is happening in your life, helping you to reflect, make sense of your experiences and see things from a different perspective.

I work from a person-centred core, drawing on different therapeutic ideas and ways of working to support your individual needs and circumstances. As each person is unique, I believe that therapy should be responsive to who you are and what you bring - you are the expert in your own life. My role is to offer an empathic, accepting space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace, without judgement.

At the heart of my work is a belief in our capacity for growth and change, alongside the importance of self-compassion. Therapy isn’t about becoming someone different; sometimes it’s about understanding yourself more deeply and finding ways of being that feel more comfortable and authentic to you.

Neuro-affirming counselling

I’m a neuro-affirming practitioner with an understanding of Autism, ADHD and AuDHD. I’m particularly interested in the ways that neurodivergence can intersect with emotional wellbeing and life experiences, including masking, task paralysis, sensory overwhelm, social anxiety, relationship difficulties and feeling different or misunderstood. My professional experience is complemented by personal experience of neurodivergence within my family, which has given me a deeper understanding of some of the experiences that can shape everyday life for neurodivergent people and those around them. Counselling can provide a space to explore these experiences without needing to hide or adapt yourself to fit expectations. We can think together about what works for you, what doesn’t, and what you might need to feel more comfortable being yourself.

Spending time in nature is an important part of my own wellbeing. Walking, swimming and birdwatching help me to feel regulated, gain perspective and feel connected. I know that being outdoors isn't a solution to everything, but I value the space it can create to pause, breathe and notice what is around us.

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