COUNSELLING in Herne Bay, Kent
A little about me
I'm Sarah Burgess and I began my counselling journey after experiencing first-hand how important it is to have someone to talk to during life's challenges, and how isolating it can feel when that support is absent.
For many years, I've had the privilege of working one-to-one with people from all walks of life, from children in an educational setting to adults with disabilities. Throughout this time, I've come to value the meaningful connections and trusting relationships we've built together. I believe it is through these relationships, and a genuine sense of collaboration, that people feel able to be open, authentic, and explore their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. This belief inspired me to move into private practice as a counsellor, where I can offer people the time, space, and support they need to reflect, heal, and grow.
Life can move at such a fast pace that often we don’t make time for ourselves. Counselling provides an opportunity to pause, reconnect with yourself, and explore whatever is important to you in a safe, supportive environment.
I work in a Trauma-informed way which prioritises understanding the impact of trauma, creating safety, and empowering clients; moving the focus from ‘What’s wrong with you?’ to ‘What happened to you?’
I work with adults of all ages on both a short term and long-term basis. Once you have secured a slot, it’s yours for as long as you need.
As a registered member of the BACP, I abide by their code of ethics and am committed to my ongoing professional development, regularly undertaking training and continuing professional development (CPD) to ensure my knowledge and skills remain current and to provide the best possible support for my clients.
My approach
For me, the heart of counselling is the relationship we build together. Being able to genuinely connect with someone when they need support is something I care about deeply and it is through this relationship that we create a space for growth and change. Although Gestalt therapy is at the heart of my work as a trauma-informed counsellor, I believe there is no one-size-fits-all approach. I therefore integrate other therapeutic modalities to best support each client's unique journey. My approach is more than a traditional talking therapy; it is an experiential approach that focuses on what is happening in the present moment.
How it can help you
Together, we explore thoughts, emotions, physical sensations, and patterns of behaviour as they emerge in the session, helping you to deepen your self-awareness and develop a more authentic connection with yourself.
This increased awareness can empower you to make meaningful choices, foster healthier relationships, and create lasting positive change in your life.
What issues can therapy help with?
People come to me for help with a wide range of issues. A few examples of the more common ones are:
Anxiety
Depression
Bereavement
Loss and anticipated loss
Major life transitions
Menopause
Relationship issues
Caring for a loved one
Dementia
Stress at work
Building self-confidence
Family issues
Loneliness
“Awareness in itself is healing.”
Fritz Perls
“The act of revealing oneself fully to another and still being accepted may be the major vehicle of therapeutic help.”
Irvin D. Yalom
“Being vulnerable is the ultimate act of courage.”
Brene Brown
Fees & location
I am based in Herne Bay, Kent, within easy reach of nearby Whitstable and Canterbury. Parking is available.
Sessions last 50 minutes and usually take place on a weekly basis, unless otherwise agreed. The fee is £40 per session. Concessions are offered for students or those on a low income and I would invite you to enquire further in terms of availability should you feel this applies to you. I offer a free introductory 20 minute phone call.
The session fee is payable 24 hours before the session and any cancellation with less notice will incur the full fee, unless we can reschedule at a mutually convenient time. Payment can be made by bank transfer or by cash with prior agreement.
Frequently asked questions
How many sessions will I need?
There is no set number of sessions. Some clients benefit from short-term counselling focused on a particular issue, while others prefer longer-term therapy to explore deeper or more complex concerns. We will review your progress together regularly.
What if I want more than one session a week or only one session a fortnight?
It’s important to allow time for reflection and processing between sessions, hence why one session a week is the standard format. I can be flexible however and we can discuss your individual needs during your first session and depending on my availability.
Will what I say be treated as confidential?
Yes. Everything discussed in counselling is treated as confidential. There are, however, a small number of legal and ethical exceptions. If there is a serious concern about your safety or the safety of someone else, or if disclosure is required by law, confidentiality may need to be broken. Wherever possible, this would be discussed with you first. I will go through this in our first session together.
What if I get upset or I don’t know what to say?
All emotions are welcome. There is no right or wrong thing to say. You remain in control of what you choose to share. We will move at a pace that feels comfortable for you, and there is never any pressure to discuss something before you are ready.
Can I stop when I want to?
Yes. Counselling is voluntary, and you can end at any time. I will always encourage you to have a final session, where possible, to reflect on your progress and bring the work to a planned close.
Do you offer online counselling?
Yes. Sessions can be offered online via a secure video platform, allowing you to access counselling from the comfort of your own home. Please ensure you have a private, quiet space where you can speak freely.
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