About me
I’m a qualified counsellor with a Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling and a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I’m insured and hold ICO registration as well as a Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check.
I work as a humanistic and integrative therapist, which means that I’ve been trained with a person centred focus following the theory of Dr Carl Rogers, alongside other related theories. I also volunteer with STARS (Sexual Trauma and Recovery Service) in Dorset and have been trained to work with complex trauma.
I attend other relevant training throughout the year to continue my professional development.
| Name | Kate Francis |
|---|---|
| Qualifications |
|
| Membership | British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) |
| Approach | Humanistic and integrative, person-centred |
| Registration and checks | Insured, ICO registered, Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check |
Why I chose a career in counselling
Following my own journey in therapy after a background in competitive sport from age seven led to patterns of people pleasing above my own needs. I learned this so far back I couldn’t remember a time when I thought I was important in my own right. I grew up with a constant need to achieve to be valued.
This work in therapy helped me recognise that healing is not about becoming someone different. It’s often about understanding ourselves more deeply, making sense of our experiences and finding ways to move forward with greater self-compassion and clarity and it’s hard sometimes.
My own experience of being in therapy ultimately led me to change my profession and has played an important role in shaping who I am as a counsellor. Through my personal journey, I gained a deeper understanding of what it means to sit with pain, work through difficult experiences, and develop greater self-awareness. I experienced first-hand the value of having a space where I could be truly heard, understood, and accepted without judgement.
It’s this understanding that I bring to my work with clients. I wanted to learn to help others, working side by side with people through their own struggles.
Why counselling?
It takes courage to reach out for support, especially when life feels overwhelming, painful, or uncertain. My aim is to offer a warm, compassionate, and non-judgemental space where you can feel safe to explore whatever is bringing you to therapy.
I believe that every person has their own unique story, and there is no right way to experience life’s challenges. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, loss, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, or simply feeling stuck, I will work alongside you at a pace that feels comfortable and respectful of your needs.
The therapeutic relationship is at the heart of my work. I value authenticity, kindness, empathy, and genuine human connection. My role is not to give advice or tell you what to do, but to support you in exploring your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, helping you to gain insight, build resilience, and discover your own path forward.
I welcome people from all backgrounds and walks of life and strive to create a space where you can bring all parts of yourself and feel accepted just as you are.
Finding the right counsellor is an important decision, and I appreciate you taking the time to learn more about me.
Counselling
Face to face and online via Zoom, for individuals over 18.
