Your story. Your pace. Your growth.
Welcome to Claire Whitlam Counselling Services
About me
I began my path in counselling with a genuine passion and desire to understand others and offer my support through life’s varied experiences. Over time, I came to see how important it is for everyone to have a safe, accepting space to explore their thoughts and feelings without criticism. This belief inspired me to train as a counsellor and remains at the heart of my work today.
I currently work for Cruse as a bereavement volunteer and S.A.I.L. as an in-person counsellor at their Chesterfield branch , supporting individuals who have survived sexual abuse. I also provide counselling support for people in the Chesterfield, Mansfield, and surrounding Derbyshire areas within my private practice. I am always inspired by the work I do, and find it both satisfying and challenging.
Training & qualifications
• BA (Hons) Social Sciences (Psychology)
• Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling (Level 4) MBACP, PG Dip).
• Certificate in Counselling Skills (Level 3)
• Ongoing professional development CPD yearly
• Certificate in Telephone and online counselling course
• Cruse Bereavement Support Foundation Course
• Safeguarding adults level 2 and 3
• Open University Trauma-informed counselling course
• Open University Understanding anxiety and depression course
• The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training for Learning Disabilities
• Pre-trial therapy training for rape and sexual abuse victims
• Defining Gender, Sex and Relationship Course GSRD (Pink therapy), LGBTQAI+ ally
• Enhanced certificate of disclosure and barring
My approach
I draw on person-centred practice to support my clients. This happens by helping clients to develop their own self-awareness and improving their autonomy within the counselling process. The skills I use during my counselling sessions include deep listening, empathy, acceptance, and a genuine connection with my clients.
I also trust my client's ability to make sense of their own experiences and discover their own answers through self-reflection and support. I understand the importance of the client counsellor relationship and always take great care to respect and protect it.
An accepting space
I aim to create a gentle, warm, and accepting space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace. Counselling is about feeling safe, being able to talk honestly, and knowing you’ll be heard without judgment. When that trust is there, we can work collaboratively to explore your feelings and figure things out. Together, we can focus on what matters most to you, guiding you gently towards clarity, understanding, and personal growth
“I work with people who may be navigating ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, grief, low confidence and self-esteem, along with many other life experiences. My approach focuses on understanding you as a person, rather than defining you by a diagnosis or label.”
How I work
As a person-centred counsellor I adapt my approach to suit the individual needs of each client. This flexible way of working allows my clients the freedom to express what they want to share in their sessions without feeling any pressure.
Whatever you are experiencing in life through the process of counselling, you can begin to understand yourself better. With this in mind I will give you encouragement every step of the way. Supporting you towards authenticity, confidence and well being.
To make sure I am working safely, ethically, and confidentially, I adhere closely to the BACP ethical framework within my counselling practice.
What issues can counselling help with?
Common areas I support include:
Trauma: Creating a safe space to process past experiences and explore healing at your own pace.
Bereavement: Offering compassionate support to navigate loss, explore grief whilst nurturing well-being.
ADHD – Support with attention, impulsivity, overwhelm, emotional regulation, and navigating daily life with an ADHD brain.
Depression – A space to explore persistent low mood, loss of motivation, hopelessness, and the emotional weight that can make everyday life feel difficult.
Anger management – Understanding the roots of anger and learning healthier ways to express, regulate, and respond to strong emotions.
LGBTQ+ counselling – Affirming support for individuals exploring identity, relationships, coming out, social pressures, or experiences related to sexuality and gender.
Family issues – Exploring difficult family dynamics, boundaries, conflict, communication problems, or the emotional impact of family relationships .
Autism – Support for autistic individuals navigating identity, sensory experiences, relationships, masking, and living in a neurotypical world.
Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) – Working with intrusive thoughts, compulsive behaviours, anxiety, and the cycles that keep OCD patterns going.
Abuse – Support for people affected by emotional, physical, psychological, or sexual abuse, past or present.
Self-Esteem & Confidence: Helping you understand and value yourself, building a stronger sense of self.
Stress & Anxiety: Exploring coping strategies and ways to manage overwhelming emotions.
Relationships – Support for challenges with friendships, romantic partnerships, or work connections, including communication, boundaries, and conflict.
Sexual issues – A safe space to explore sexual wellbeing, intimacy concerns, difficulties with desire, or challenges in sexual relationships.
Understanding personality disorders – Guidance and support in recognising personality patterns, coping strategies, and managing the impact on self and relationships.
Stress – Exploring the pressures of work, life, or relationships and finding ways to reduce overwhelm and restore balance.
Mental health – General support for emotional wellbeing, personal challenges, and navigating periods of psychological difficulty.
My location
I am based in Alfreton and see people face-to-face from throughout the Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire areas.
In addition to providing face-to-face therapy, I also offer online sessions for clients throughout the UK via Zoom.
Booking & payment
I offer 50-minute counselling sessions at £45 by telephone, online, or face-to-face, designed to suit your needs.
I kindly ask for at least 24 hours’ notice for cancellations. Student Discounts: Available—please don’t hesitate to ask.
I also offer a free 20-minute initial consultation session by telephone, perfect if you’re unsure where to start. I’d be happy to answer any questions or help you book your first session—just get in touch!
Get in touch
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions about how counselling works, or to arrange an initial assessment appointment. This enables us to discuss the reasons you are thinking of coming to counselling, whether it could be helpful for you and whether I am the right therapist to help.
You can also call me on 07928780010 if you would prefer to leave a message or speak to me first. I am happy to discuss any queries or questions you may have prior to arranging an initial appointment.
All enquires are usually answered within 24 hours, and all contact is strictly confidential.
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