Onward Counselling
Your Counsellor
Counsellor photograph
Ruth Barnes
Level 5 qualified Psychotherapeutic Counsellor
A confidential space to talk through what's going on, understand things more clearly, and find a way forward without being rushed or directed.
You might be dealing with something identifiable, or simply aware that life feels heavier or more confusing than usual. You do not need a formal diagnosis or a crisis to reach out.
Sometimes knowing that something feels difficult is reason enough to talk it through.
Counselling is available for people aged 16 and over.
When thoughts feel persistently crowded, tense or hard to quieten.
Persistent flatness, low energy or feeling disconnected from what usually brings joy.
Past events or painful memories that continue to cast a shadow over daily life.
Navigating bereavement, career shifts, health changes or unexpected crossroads.
Tension with family, partners or colleagues, or repeating patterns that leave you hurt.
Uncertainty about who you are, harsh self-criticism, or questioning your value.
Knowing something needs to shift, but being unsure where to begin.
There is no prescribed script to follow. You don't need to arrive knowing exactly what to say or have things neatly organised before we speak.
Your thoughts and experiences are received without judgement, presumption, or an agenda to fix you into someone else's idea of healthy.
You decide what feels meaningful to explore. Some days involve digging into big questions; other days simply giving voice to the week's fatigue.
Honesty, confidentiality, and steady continuity. We can pause, sit with silence, or return to themes when you are ready.
Ruth works from a Person-Centred approach — giving you space to explore at your own pace, without being directed towards an answer.
About the ApproachIn counselling terms, this is known as a Person-Centred approach: trusting that with the right conditions of empathy and acceptance, you can uncover your own clarity and direction.
Counsellor photograph
Because Onward Counselling is a dedicated one-person practice, you will always speak to the same person. You won't have to re-explain your story or adjust to changing styles between appointments.
Starting counselling shouldn't feel complex. The initial consultation is designed to let you see how it feels before making any further decisions.
A free 15-minute conversation to briefly talk about what has brought you here and ask any initial questions.
If you both feel comfortable continuing, practical arrangements and the counselling agreement are provided for you to review.
Arrange your first full counselling session online, with local home visits considered where appropriate.
Counselling is available online, with local home visits considered where appropriate.
View Pricing & Session OptionsA relaxed, 15-minute phone or video conversation. We'll touch on what brings you to counselling and answer any questions you have.
If you both feel comfortable working together, practical arrangements and a counselling agreement are provided for you to review.
Arrange your first full session online by video call, or explore whether a local home visit is appropriate for your needs.
Counselling is available online, with local home visits considered where appropriate.
View Pricing & Session OptionsIf you'd like to explore working together, booking a free 15-minute consultation is a simple first step.
Online counselling • Local home visits considered where suitable