Coastal Counselling Whitstable
Liz Norris
Dip Couns MBACP
Therapeutic Integrative Counsellor
Counselling in Whitstable, Kent & Online
Supportive steps to a brighter tomorrow
A calm, compassionate & supportive space for reflection, personal growth & healing
Whatever has brought you here, you don't have to face it alone. Whether you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck or simply looking for a place to reflect, counselling offers an opportunity for you to pause & reconnect with yourself.
I believe that everyone deserves a place where they feel heard, understood & accepted without judgement. Reaching out for support is often the hardest step but know that you will be met with warmth, empathy & compassion.
Our lives are shaped not only by what has happened to us, but by the stories we've had to tell ourselves in order to survive. Over time, those stories can become the lens through which we see ourselves, our relationships and the world around us. Sometimes, what we need most isn't advice or answers, but to be truly seen- to sit with someone who isn't trying to fix us, rush us, or tell us how we should feel.
Therapy offers a space to gently explore those stories with curiosity and compassion, making sense of experiences that may have felt confusing, painful, or overwhelming. Together, we can begin to untangle old patterns, reconnect with the parts of yourself that may have been lost along the way, & discover that your past doesn't have to define your future.
I believe that healing begins when we feel safe enough to be ourselves. Being deeply heard and understood can create space for self-acceptance, growth & lasting change- not because you become someone different, but because you begin to discover who you've always been beneath the weight of life's experiences.
Client Review
Therapy Client
"Liz is absolutely brilliant!
I went to see her as I felt stressed, overwhelmed and stuck- unable to move forwards. Liz spent time getting to know me and understand my thoughts and emotions. We worked collaboratively together to help me identify why I was feeling that way and discuss potential things I could do to help me move forward.
It worked and I cannot believe how different I feel. I now feel strong enough to understand and deal with my issues - I am definitely out of the 'stuck' zone! I cannot recommend Liz highly enough.
Thank you!"
About Me
Hello I’m Liz, a therapeutic counsellor offering a warm, supportive & relational space for adults seeking support.
I work with people experiencing anxiety, stress & other challenges that can make everyday life feel overwhelming. Whether you’re struggling with relationship issues, navigating change or loss, or wanting to understand yourself better & grow, I’m here to collaboratively work with you in finding a way forward that feels right for you.
Key Details:
- DBS Check: Fully certified & hold an enhanced DBS
- Insurance: Fully insured for professional practice
- Professional Membership: Registered Member of the British Association of Counselling & Psychotherapy (MBACP)
Working with me
My approach is grounded in curiosity & openness. I aim to understand your experiences as you see them & to work alongside you in exploring your thoughts, feelings & behaviours. At times this may involve gently questioning patterns that may no longer be serving you while remaining respectful of the ways that have helped you cope.
In our work together, I will listen closely & reflect back what I notice, particularly around the beliefs, expectations & ways of relating that can sometimes keep people feeling stuck. Understanding where these patterns developed- including looking at earlier life experiences where helpful- can often bring new insights.
At the heart of my practice is the belief that a trusting therapeutic relationship can be a powerful catalyst for change. My hope is to build this trusting & safe therapeutic relationship where you feel comfortable to be able to speak openly about yourself and your experiences.
My Therapy Space
How I can help:
I support adults experiencing a wide range of issues:
Anxiety, including health or general worry
Stress & overwhelm
Feelings of guilt or shame
Identity & self-acceptance
Perfectionism or pressure to succeed
Coping with isolation or loneliness
Emotional exhaustion or compassion fatigue
Coping with chronic illness or disability
Managing uncertainty or fear of the future
Low mood or feeling stuck
Grief, loss, & bereavement
Family & relationship difficulties
Coping with change or major life transitions
Trauma and past experiences
Low self-esteem & self-worth
Self-discovery, personal growth, & life purpose
Parenting challenges
My aim is to empower you with the tools & insights to navigate life’s challenges with confidence & resilience. Whether you’re facing anxiety, low mood, or simply want to gain a clearer understanding of yourself, I’m here to offer support, guidance & a compassionate listening ear.
How I Work
I provide individual counselling for young people & adults aged 18 and over. I predominantly work in a face to face capacity, offering in-person sessions, but I also offer online and telephone sessions or walk & talk therapy, allowing greater flexibility and accessibility to suit individual needs and circumstances. Counselling sessions can be short-term (6-12 weeks) or open-ended, depending on what feels right for you. Sessions typically last 50 minutes & can be scheduled weekly or fortnightly, allowing us to work together at a pace that suits you.
My Services
In-Person
Counselling
My designated therapy space is a log cabin set within my garden, offering a peaceful, confidential & private environment where you can feel safe to pause and reflect.
Please note that there is one step leading up to my therapy room. If you have any specific accessibility needs, please don't hesitate to get in touch. I'll do my best to accommodate your requirements or suggest alternative arrangements.
Find out more here.
Online and Telephone Counselling
I offer online counselling sessions via a secure video platform or telephone calls, giving you the flexibility to attend from wherever feels most comfortable— whether that’s from home or another safe space.
Online and telephone sessions can be particularly helpful if you have a busy schedule, mobility challenges, or prefer the privacy and convenience of remote sessions.
Walk & Talk
Therapy
My sessions take place along the beautiful Kentish Coastal routes near Whitstable & Herne Bay.
Walk & talk therapy is especially helpful for those who feel anxious in traditional therapy settings, find eye contact difficult, or need a way to release excess energy while processing their experiences.
This approach combines the benefits of nature, movement, & therapy to help you regulate your nervous system and increase mindfulness. Being outdoors can reduce stress, lift mood & create a sense of ease, making it easier to explore your thoughts & emotions.
My Location
My counselling practice is based in Whitstable & I work from a purpose-built therapy room- a quiet, comfortable log cabin in my garden which is accessed via a private side passage, providing a discreet and welcoming space where therapy sessions can begin in comfort and privacy.
My therapy space is easily accessible by car, with free ample parking available outside on the road & surrounding roads. It's also just a short walk from Chestfield & Swalecliffe train station & is well-served by main bus routes.
Full address & directions will be provided once we arrange your first appointment.
Sessions and Fees
Initial 20 minute consultation telephone call- FREE
First assessment session (60 minutes)- £50
Counselling sessions (50 minutes)- £50
My standard fees are £50 per session.
I also offer a limited number of concessionary spaces & discounted rates for students. If this applies to you, please feel free to discuss it with me before we start.
Payment can be made via bank transfer or cash & is due on the day of your session, unless we've agreed on another arrangement. Payment details will be provided once you decide to proceed.
I offer both daytime & evening appointments & will do my best to arrange a time that suits your schedule. If you're balancing childcare, work or other commitments, I'm happy to work with you to find a flexible arrangement that fits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Counselling, therapy, and psychotherapy are often used interchangeably to describe a confidential, supportive process where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, & experiences with a trained professional. This collaborative relationship aims to help you understand yourself better, gain new perspectives, & develop coping strategies to overcome challenges and achieve your goals. Through a non-judgmental & empathetic approach, I can help you navigate life's difficulties & work towards positive change.
Counselling can help with anything that's on your mind. No issue is too big or too small – if it's bothering you, it's worth exploring. I'll provide a supportive space to discuss whatever's important to you. While counselling can be beneficial for a wide range of concerns, there may be rare instances where I believe you might benefit from additional or alternative support. If that's the case, we'll discuss it together & work collaboratively to explore options and find the best fit for your needs. My goal is to offer the best possible support tailored to you, & I'm committed to finding the right resources with you.
The length of counselling varies depending on individual needs. Some people benefit from short-term support (six weeks or more) for specific issues, while others prefer longer-term therapy. Typically, we begin with six sessions and then assess progress & next steps. Through regular reviews of our work together, we'll track your progress & make any necessary adjustments to ensure we're working effectively towards your goals.
Yes. Everything discussed in our sessions is confidential. The only exceptions are if I believe you're at risk of harm to yourself or others, or if I'm legally required to disclose information. If this situation ever arises, I'll aim to discuss this with your beforehand.
Yes I keep brief notes afterwards to help me remember key points. These notes are minimal, stored securely, and kept confidential in accordance with GDPR legislation. They're for my professional use only & never shared with others. You're welcome to request access to your notes at any time.
For more information about the Counselling Process please click here.
Taking the first steps together
Are you ready to talk?...
Starting therapy can bring a mix of emotions—nervousness, uncertainty, or even relief. We’ll take it one step at a time. Our first focus will be on building a trusting relationship, where I get to know you, your goals & the challenges you’re facing.
As we work together, I’ll support & guide you in exploring different areas of your life, always moving at a pace that feels comfortable, especially when discussing difficult topics. You can expect honesty, compassion & a non-judgmental space. If strong emotions arise, we’ll face them together & I’ll help you navigate them safely.
We’ll regularly review your progress, adjust goals as needed & celebrate your achievements along the way. Together, we’ll find your rhythm & create a supportive environment for growth, understanding & healing.
Get in touch
If you have any queries or questions about how counselling works, or to arrange a free 20 minute initial consultation, please contact me in whichever way feels easiest & most comfortable for you. You can do this by email, telephone or send a message using the contact form below. This enables us to discuss the reasons you are thinking of coming to counselling, whether it could be helpful for you & to see if I am the right therapist for you. There’s no pressure—just a kind, supportive space to begin. Together, we’ll take it one step at a time.
All enquires are usually answered within 24 hours, and all contact is strictly confidential & uses secure phone and email services.