Clare Mains
Psychotherapeutic Counsellor
Bristol, UK
Bristol, UK
Welcome — I’m really glad you’re here.
I’m a fully qualified psychotherapeutic counsellor, and I work with people who are navigating all kinds of experiences. Sometimes it’s a specific event that’s shaken things up; sometimes it’s a familiar pattern that keeps resurfacing; sometimes life just feels heavier, more overwhelming, or more confusing than you’d like it to be. And sometimes, you might simply want space to think, reflect, or get to know yourself a little better. You don’t need to be in crisis to benefit from counselling — whatever brings you here is completely valid.
I know it can be hard to put certain feelings or experiences into words. My approach is gentle and compassionate, and we’ll go at a pace that feels right for you. I work integratively, drawing from Person‑Centred, Gestalt and Psychodynamic approaches, and I shape our work around what you need.
I see counselling as a collaborative process. I bring my training and experience, but the heart of the work is helping you connect with your own inner resources, confidence, and self‑trust — the things you can carry with you long after our sessions end.
What supports our work together
I am a member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy) which is an organisation that sets professional standards for training, practice, and ethical conduct. I use their ethical framework to guide the work we do together. If you would like to find out more about this please click here https://www.bacp.co.uk/ethical-framework
I engage in monthly supervision with an experienced professional which supports me to work safely, ethically and effectively with you.
I hold an MA in Counselling and Psychotherapy from UWE, Bristol.
Previous experience
I previously worked as a counsellor for Bristol Mind, supporting clients with a wide range of experiences. Before training as a counsellor, I worked within Bristol's charity sector at The Green House and Second Step. These organisations provide specialist support to people experiencing complex trauma. This gave me a foundation of core skills that I have continued to build on throughout my training and practice.
Who I work with
I work with adults of all ages, genders and identities.
Where I work
I work in Bristol, BS8 in a practice which is just a few minutes walk from Clifton Down train station, bus routes and parking. The room is situated on the ground floor.
Fee
Sessions are £60 for 50 minutes.
Next steps and contact details
I appreciate that finding the right counsellor is an important decision, so I offer an initial 20 minute phone call free of charge with no obligation to proceed to see if we're a good fit.
If you have any questions or would like to book an initial call, please feel free to get in touch. You can complete the contact form or email me info@claremainscounselling.co.uk
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