Counselling in
County Durham
and online.

Feeling anxious, low, overwhelmed or simply not yourself?
Face to face, online, telephone, or walk and talk.
Whatever works for you - I can help

Counsellor in Training Qualifying June 2026
NCPS Student Member Working towards registration
Confidential and professional A calm space to talk
Face to face and online Flexible ways to meet

Meet Neil

Neil Atkinson, integrative counsellor, Shotley Bridge

Neil Atkinson

Integrative Counsellor in Training · NCPS Student Member, qualifying 2026

I came to counselling through real life rather than a textbook. My approach is warm, thoughtful and grounded. I work with you rather than applying a fixed method. My aim is to offer a space where you can talk openly, feel understood and begin to make sense of things in your own way.

Read more about me and my approach →

What I help with

You do not need to have it all worked out. Let’s talk.

People come to counselling for many different reasons. You might recognise something here, or you might not. Both are completely fine.

Some of the things people come to me with:

How I work

Counselling that fits your life

There is no single right way to start counselling. Choose the format that feels most manageable for you.

Some of the ways I work:

Starting counselling

How it works, step by step

  1. Read a little and see how it feels

    Have a look around the site, read a little about me, and see whether the way I work feels right for you. You do not need to be certain before getting in touch.

    Read more about Neil

  2. Book your first free session

    A no pressure first conversation to talk about what has brought you here, ask questions, and see whether working together feels like a good fit.

    Read what actually happens in a first session.

  3. Begin at a pace that suits you

    If you decide to continue, we can begin regular sessions in person, online, or by phone, with space to work through things at your own pace.

  4. Review and continue thoughtfully

    Some people come for a few sessions and others for longer. We can review things as we go so the support stays useful, steady, and right for you.

Wooden stepping stones leading out into the sea at sunset

Get Started

Book your
first free session

Taking that first step can feel like the hardest part. Get in touch and I’ll respond within one working day.

I am not a crisis service. If you are struggling to keep yourself safe, free and confidential help is available right now.
Get urgent support →

All information is treated in strict confidence in accordance with GDPR.

Client Voices

What people
are saying

All testimonials are used with the permission of the client.