Meet Me

Addiction Counselling

Hello, I'm Kelly, a qualified person-centred counsellor with experience working within addiction services, supporting individuals through substance misuse, recovery, relapse and the challenges that often come with making changes.

Sometimes the hardest part isn't making a change, it's admitting that something needs to change.

Addiction can affect every aspect of life, from relationships and self-esteem to emotional and physical wellbeing. Whether you're struggling with alcohol, drugs, gambling, sex, pornography or other behaviours that feel increasingly difficult to manage, taking that first step towards support isn't always easy.

With over 25 years of experience in healthcare, predominantly within the NHS, I bring a wealth of professional and life experience to my counselling practice. I understand that life's challenges are rarely straightforward and that there is often much more going on beneath the surface than others might see.

I have a particular interest in supporting those who find it difficult to open up about how they're feeling, especially when they've spent years putting on a brave face, keeping everything together or believing they should be able to cope on their own. Sometimes the hardest part is admitting that things aren't quite as okay as they seem.

Understanding addiction

Addiction is rarely as simple as just stopping. Whether it involves a substance or a behaviour, there can be feelings of shame, guilt, frustration and fear, alongside a genuine desire for things to be different.

Sometimes these behaviours can become a way of coping with difficult emotions, past experiences, stress or the pressures of everyday life. What may have started as something enjoyable or a way to escape can gradually begin to feel out of control.

You don't need to have reached rock bottom, have all the answers or even be certain you're ready to make changes to benefit from counselling.

What can you expect from counselling with me?

My approach is person-centred, informed by experiential techniques. This means our sessions are guided by you and what feels important in the moment. As well as talking about your experiences, we may explore the emotions and feelings beneath them, helping you develop a greater understanding of yourself and the patterns that may be keeping you stuck.

I believe counselling should feel like a genuine conversation, where you can be yourself without fear of judgement. I'm not here to tell you what you should or shouldn't do or expect you to make changes before you're ready.

Instead, I'll work alongside you as we explore what's happening, understand the challenges you're facing and consider what moving forward might look like for you.

Whether you're questioning your relationship with a substance or behaviour, thinking about making changes, already in recovery or finding things difficult after a setback, you don't have to navigate it alone.

Sessions and availability

I offer face-to-face counselling at Natural Fitness & Therapy Centre in Eastbourne, as well as online sessions.

£60 per 50-minute session.

I also offer a free initial telephone consultation, because finding the right counsellor matters. It's an opportunity for us to have a relaxed conversation, ask questions and see whether we feel comfortable working together.

If something you've read resonates with you, you're very welcome to get in touch.