About me

My name is Kat Friel and I'm a qualified BACP-registered counsellor practicing integrative therapy. My approach is primarily person-centred, but I also use other therapeutic methods to suit your individual needs.

I currently offer video sessions to UK-based clients via Zoom.

How I work

I work collaboratively with clients aged 18+ to create a compassionate, non-judgemental space where you can explore difficult emotions at your own pace.

I have experience supporting clients with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, self-harm, sleep difficulties, stress and trauma. I also work with people who are:

  • navigating identity, gender, or sexuality

  • dealing with addiction, alcohol or drug use

  • experiencing relationship difficulties

  • neurodivergent, including those with autism and ADHD.

I also recognise that emotional wellbeing is deeply connected to the broader social, political, and economic landscape. I aim to give you space to explore how these systematic factors affect your experiences.

What to expect

Taking a predominantly person-centred approach to therapy means that I’m here to support you to explore your behaviours, beliefs, feelings, issues, values, and worldview in a way that increases your self-awareness and sense of agency in your own life.

I will encourage you to take the lead when it comes to deciding what to focus on in each session, and I will support you to identify the options and resources you have available to you.

In our sessions I aim to:

  • provide a non-judgmental environment

  • be honest and transparent with you

  • understand your experiences

  • ensure you feel heard and understood.

Qualifications and Training

  • Registered BACP member (Membership no. 01038892)

  • Diploma in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy (COSCA)

  • Masters in Psychological Studies (University of Glasgow)

  • Certificate in Working Alongside Trans, Gender Diverse and Questioning People (Gendered Intelligence)

  • Certificate in Sandwork (Essential Training Associates Ltd.)

  • The Atholl Approach: Working with Trauma (Trauma Healing Together)

  • Certificate in Counselling People Towards Behaviour Change (Glasgow Council on Alcohol)

  • Volunteer therapist with Glasgow Council on Alcohol (2023 - 2024)

  • Volunteer therapist with Trauma Healing Together (2024 - 2025)

My Background and Values

Before qualifying as a counsellor, I had a successful career in communications, primarily working with healthcare and higher education providers. Through this work, I developed a keen interest in mental and physical health as well as the structural challenges that impact our wellbeing and ability to access help and support.

I aim to provide a safe and affirming space where you can feel supported while exploring what matters most to you. I understand the importance of having a space where you can be yourself and be met with empathy and respect — this is at the heart of my approach as a therapist.

In my counselling work, I aim to be authentic, collaborative, empathic, encouraging, and transparent. My personal values include adventure, creativity, curiosity, honesty, and social justice.