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Therapeutic Coaching

Bringing together the depth of counselling
and the forward focus of coaching

Taking small, meaningful steps from where you are now to where you want to be. If you feel ready for change — not just insight — get in touch to see if this approach could suit you.

Not sure what therapeutic coaching is? Think of it as therapy and coaching working together — the support and insight to understand yourself, combined with the practical tools and forward focus to move forward. The best of both.

Book an Initial Conversation How I Can Help
BACP Registered Member
Online & In-Person
Initial Conversation Free
Insight + action
= change.

We can read all the books, listen to the podcasts and gain a great deal of awareness and understanding — but unless we start taking action, life doesn't always make the shifts we want.

Helping you move from awareness and understanding
to meaningful change.

The empathy, insight and therapeutic experience
to meet you where you are —

and the practical tools and techniques
to help you move toward where you want to be.

Book an Initial Conversation
Heather - Therapeutic Coach
About Me & My Practice

From insight
into meaningful change

I am a therapeutic coach, combining my training in both counselling and coaching.

I offer therapeutic coaching that works with what is happening in the present, while also supporting movement toward where you want to be. This way of working draws on both counselling and coaching approaches — space for reflection and understanding, alongside a focus on clarity, insight, and taking steps forward in a way that feels intentional and future-focused.

Most people come because they want change — not just insight — and to experience a clearer sense of direction, momentum, and possibility in their lives.

BACP Registered Member Qualified Counsellor Therapeutic Coaching Online & In-Person
How I Work

Structured support for
lasting change

Together, we take time to understand what is happening for you — your thoughts, emotions and patterns — and what may be keeping things feeling difficult or repetitive.

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Understanding

We explore what is happening in your thoughts, emotions and patterns — and what may be keeping things feeling difficult or stuck.

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Movement

Alongside reflection, we work with practical, evidence-based approaches to help you respond differently and move forward in a sustainable way.

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Direction

My approach is integrative, which means I don't follow one single model or method. Instead, I draw on a range of evidence-based approaches and adapt how I work depending on what feels most helpful for you at any given point.

Some of the approaches that inform how I work include CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), solution-focused therapy, positive psychology and person-centred practice.

I have a particular interest in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which offers a different way of working with thoughts and emotions. This can be especially helpful if you've tried more traditional approaches such as CBT and found they didn't quite resonate. If you'd like to understand more, read my blog post exploring the difference between CBT and ACT.

In my experience, integrating therapeutic and coaching approaches supports both deeper self-understanding and more effective progress — helping you move forward in a way that feels grounded and sustainable. This is consistent with the growing body of research on integrated approaches.

Who I Work With

Who I Work With

I work with adults and young people experiencing a range of difficulties. You may feel caught in your thoughts, disconnected from what matters to you, or unsure how to move forward — even if you understand some of what is going on.

Many people who come to me prefer a more structured approach whilst still having a safe and supportive place to process what's going on. Others have already been to therapy and are looking for something more future and action focused. If any of the below feels familiar, therapeutic coaching may be a good fit.

  • ✦ Stress, anxiety and overthinking
  • ✦ Low confidence or self-doubt
  • ✦ Life transitions or uncertainty
  • ✦ Unhelpful patterns or habits
  • ✦ Feeling stuck or lacking direction
  • ✦ Inner criticism or imposter feelings

If you are enquiring on behalf of a young person, please get in touch to discuss whether this approach may be suitable.

What Sessions Are Like

Calm, supportive
and purposeful

I offer a calm, supportive and non-judgemental space where you can talk openly about what is going on for you.

Sessions are structured and purposeful. Alongside reflection and understanding, there is a gentle focus on movement — helping you take steps toward the kind of life you want to be living.

A central part of the work is developing greater self-awareness and self-understanding — not just as an end in itself, but as a foundation for meaningful change.

Unlike traditional psychotherapy, therapeutic coaching places equal emphasis on both understanding and action — ensuring that insights don't just stay theoretical, but translate into real, practical change in your day to day life.

Insight and action are both central to the work.

This way of working is most effective when you feel ready to take ownership of your wellbeing — not necessarily having all the answers, but being open to taking small steps toward change.

Sessions are available online via Microsoft Teams, and in person in Harrogate, North Yorkshire — on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at a frequency that works for you.

Book an Initial Conversation
Professional Background

I am a qualified counsellor and coach — dual qualified, and therefore able to work with you in a blended approach that combines the insight and depth of counselling with the structure and forward focus of coaching. I am a Registered Member of both the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and the Association for Coaching. I have many years of experience working with adults and young people, both online and in person in Harrogate, North Yorkshire. I have a particular interest in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) — an approach I find especially helpful for those who want to develop a different relationship with their thoughts and emotions. I work regularly in supervision to maintain the quality and safety of my practice.

I have supported individuals through a range of organisations including:

AXA Health Childline Relate JustB Place2Be Spectrum Life The Harlow Therapy & Coaching
What I Offer

Therapeutic coaching
tailored around you

I offer one-to-one therapeutic coaching — a focused, forward-moving way of working that blends counselling insight with practical coaching support.

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Online Sessions

The same quality of therapeutic coaching from wherever you are, via Microsoft Teams. Online sessions offer flexibility and ease without compromising the depth of the work.

£50 / 50 mins
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In-Person Sessions

One-to-one therapeutic coaching in a calm, private setting in Harrogate, North Yorkshire. A space to slow down, think clearly, and begin moving forward with intention and support.

£70 / 50 mins
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Initial Conversation

I always encourage an initial conversation as a first step. It's an opportunity for you to ask questions, get a sense of how I work, and decide whether this feels like the right fit — with no pressure or obligation.

Free
Client Stories

Words from those
who've taken their steps

★★★★★

I was comfortable from the start. Heather suggested a very structured approach which suited me perfectly and helped me see that deep-seated anger was wrapped up in a grief I hadn't even recognised. I never felt judged at any point — but she did not allow me to sidestep the difficult stuff either. I wouldn't hesitate in recommending Heather to anybody. She is really very good.

De
Deidre
★★★★★

I appreciated Heather's goal-oriented approach and careful documentation of our discussions, which she used to circle back to discuss themes and accountability. She often used my "venting" to key in on real issues — leading to discussions on what steps I could take to resolve them. It's a pragmatic approach that forced me to think about my triggers. I am still using the solutions we came up with today.

To
Todd
★★★★★

From the initial meeting, I knew Heather was the right personality match for me. She is warm, a great listener and really helped me interrogate aspects of myself — helping me see how I can live a more intentional life. I would highly recommend Heather for anyone looking for an extremely down-to-earth, approachable, kind and super-talented coach.

St
Steve
★★★★★

Heather provided exactly the type of coaching I requested and I am delighted with how she handled each session. I found her to be an effective coach, who listened and observed with aware presence. Her questions were timely, opening and helpful. She helped me through a challenging period of my life and I am eternally grateful for her careful, caring support.

Ti
Tim
★★★★★

I contacted Heather when I found my path ahead unclear — dissatisfied at work and frustrated at home. She showed sensitivity and thoughtfulness, was responsive to my feedback, and after a few months I found myself in a more positive mindset. The insights and exercises she shared have enabled me to take control and feel more confident about tackling challenges.

Je
Jeanie
Common Questions

Things you might
want to know

It's completely normal to have questions when thinking about accessing support. Here are answers to the things people ask most.

If you have something else on your mind, please don't hesitate to reach out — there are no silly questions.

Ask a Question
Therapy tends to focus on healing, processing past experiences and mental health support. Coaching is more future-focused, helping you set goals and take action. Therapeutic coaching brings both together — providing a safe, reflective space whilst also placing emphasis on moving forward in a practical and meaningful way. Sessions draw on elements of both, depending on where you are and what feels most helpful at the time. Read more in my blog post — What is Therapeutic Coaching?
I work on a session by session basis with no block bookings, giving you full flexibility on frequency and duration to meet your needs. Some people prefer weekly sessions, others fortnightly or monthly — and this often naturally shifts over time, with people typically starting weekly or fortnightly and moving to monthly or quarterly as their journey progresses. Some people feel significant shifts in a relatively short time; others prefer longer term support. We'll review regularly together so you're always in control of how we work.
Yes — I offer both online and in-person sessions. Online sessions are held via Microsoft Teams and are just as effective as meeting in person. Many clients appreciate the flexibility and convenience of being in their own space. I can send you a Teams link ahead of your session — no account needed on your side.
Absolutely. Confidentiality is foundational to what I do. Everything shared in sessions is completely private. The only exceptions are rare safeguarding situations — which I'll always explain clearly at the outset.
That's completely fine — many of my clients are coming to this kind of work for the first time. The initial conversation is a relaxed, no-pressure way to ask questions, get a sense of how I work, and decide whether it feels like the right support for you.
Many people who come to me have already experienced therapy and found it helpful — but are now looking for something more future and action focused. They may understand why they are feeling a certain way but want to take action now to move towards living the life they want. Therapeutic coaching can be a natural next step, offering a more structured, action-oriented way of working whilst still providing a safe space to process and reflect.
It's both — and neither in isolation. Therapeutic coaching draws on the depth and safety of counselling alongside the forward focus and structure of coaching. It's particularly suited to people who want more than insight — who are ready to understand themselves more deeply and take meaningful steps forward. I've written more about this in my blog post — What is Therapeutic Coaching?
Therapeutic coaching works best when someone feels ready — even if uncertain — to begin taking steps forward, however small. It may not be the right fit if you are currently experiencing an acute mental health crisis, severe or untreated depression, or require clinical diagnosis or psychiatric support. It may also not be suitable if you are looking for a space focused solely on in-depth therapeutic processing without a forward-focused element — in these situations, counselling, psychotherapy or other mental health services may be more suitable.

If you're unsure whether this approach is right for you, please do get in touch — I'm always happy to have an honest conversation and point you in the right direction if needed.
Simply send me a message using the contact form below. I'll be in touch to arrange an initial conversation — a chance for us to meet, for you to ask any questions, and to get a sense of whether this feels like the right support for you. There's no pressure or obligation at all.
From the Blog

Thoughts on wellbeing,
growth & everyday life

🌿
Therapeutic Coaching

What is Therapeutic Coaching?

Therapeutic coaching brings together the empathy and insight of counselling with the structure and forward focus of coaching — offering a space that is both supportive and purposeful.

Read more →
💛
Self-Compassion

Why Being Kind to Yourself Isn't Weakness — It's Essential

Self-compassion is one of the most misunderstood — and most powerful — tools for meaningful change. Here's what it really means and why it matters.

Read more →
✨
Life Transitions

Navigating Life Transitions Without Losing Yourself

Life transitions — even positive ones — can leave us feeling unsteady and uncertain. Here's how to find your footing when the ground is shifting.

Read more →
Get in Touch

Ready to take
your first step?

The best way to get in touch is via the contact form or email. I aim to respond within 48 hours — and there's absolutely no pressure or obligation.

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Email heather@smallstepscounselling.co.uk
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Location In-person in Harrogate & Online
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Availability Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays