School Counselling in Bristol
Bristol school counselling service specialising in SEND and SEMH students with anxiety, low mood, autism, and social difficulties. I work flexibly with alternative provisions and secondary schools across Bristol to support student wellbeing.
My Experience
I am an experienced integrative therapist specialising in Bristol school counselling and the mental health and emotional wellbeing of young people, with particular expertise in working within alternative provisions and supporting those with SEMH & SEND needs.
With over a decade of experience in alternative provisions for education—and the past two years specifically focused on therapeutic practice within these settings—I bring a deep understanding of the complex and often interwoven challenges faced by pupils who struggle to engage with mainstream settings.
Many of the young people I support have experienced disrupted learning, behavioural difficulties, trauma, or difficult home environments. I tailor my approach to meet each student where they are—prioritising trust, safety, and emotional connection.
MY APPROACH
My therapeutic work is grounded in flexibility and informed by a range of evidence-based models, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I also integrate creative, sensory, and non-verbal techniques—such as art, games, sand play, and written exercises—particularly beneficial for young people who find verbal communication challenging.
I offer developmentally appropriate interventions that focus on emotional regulation, self-awareness, and resilience. Mindfulness and coping strategies are woven into sessions to support self-regulation, reduce anxiety, and improve focus and readiness to learn.
Working closely with school staff, families, and external professionals, I ensure a consistent and joined-up approach around each young person. My therapeutic support complements existing pastoral and behaviour systems and contributes to a whole-school ethos of emotional literacy and inclusion.
Above all, my goal is to help young people feel seen, understood, and supported, empowering them to better manage their emotions, build self-esteem, and re-engage with their education in a meaningful way.
What I offer
I am able to offer unique Bristol school counselling packages to meet your schools’ and pupils’ needs, such as:
Group workshops for 4 - 6 pupils on managing anxiety and stress.
1:1 counselling sessions that fit around the school timetable.
Short & long-term sessions.
Drop in pastoral support sessions.
I have full enhanced DBS and am a member of the BACP, my training included working with children and young people following the BACP CYP framework for working safely and ethically with young people. I therefore have working knowledge of developmental models and working creatively and effectively with young people, this is an area I am passionate about and have excellent working relationships with the schools I am contracted with.
I regularly undertake CPD as my commitment to maintaining my practice, keeping up to date on safeguarding, prevent and equality and diversity training.
What Schools and young people say
“Kayleigh has been providing counselling services to our school for the past year. She has a natural ability to build rapport and trust with SEN students, which has led to improved student outcomes, including attendance, following her intervention. As an SEN provision, we really value Kayleigh’s creativity and resourcefulness. She capably adapts her counselling approach based on each student’s unique personality, background, and needs. Students have reported improved mood, greater focus, and increased resilience. Kayleigh also demonstrates exceptional professionalism in her documentation, adherence to safeguarding policies, and collaboration as part of the school team. I would have no hesitation in recommending Kayleigh as a counsellor to another SEN setting
”
“I have enjoyed our sessions, it was easy to talk to Kayleigh and I feel I have become more confident. I feel more like my old self again. ”
“Kayleigh has had a really positive impact on our school community since joining the school. Her compassionate and approachable nature has enabled students to feel safe, supported, and empowered to talk openly about their mental health and emotional wellbeing. She has built strong, trusting relationships with both students and staff, and her work has contributed to noticeable improvements in student confidence, resilience, and behaviour. Kayleigh is a great practitioner, and her understanding and knowledge of complex school systems makes her an assist to the team!”
“The sessions really helped my anxiety, I felt listened to. I now have strategies for managing anxiety which is helping me to attend classes, but also at home.”
“I can manage my anger, I feel proud of myself and I know that talking has been really helping - I am happier at home and at school.”