About Stepping Stone Therapy

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Hello, I’m Carrie, a Psychotherapeutic Counsellor based in the North East. I work with children, young people, and adults facing a wide range of difficulties. I offer therapeutic support either in schools or from my counselling room in Whitley Bay.

 

My Approach

 

As an integrative counsellor, I tailor my work to meet each person’s unique needs. I combine various therapeutic approaches to help individuals:

• Explore and make sense of their emotions

• Build resilience

• Improve emotional well-being

• Work towards personal goals

 

I’m especially passionate about using creative methods in therapy. Depending on what feels right for the client, I may incorporate tools like:

• Clay

• Paint

• Imagery

• Drawing

• Sand tray work

 

My approach is always flexible and client-led, allowing space for expression in whatever way feels most natural and effective.

 

What I Can Help With

 

I offer support for a wide range of issues, including:

• Anxiety and low mood

• Relational difficulties

• Bullying

• Grief and loss

• Sleep challenges

• Emotional regulation

• Trauma

• School 

• Work stress

• Family difficulties

• Post Adoption Support (Provided through Adopt North East) 

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I have worked extensively with neurodivergent young people and always take a flexible, neuro-affirming, client led approach.  

 

Qualifications

 

I hold the following qualifications:

• Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling – Northern Guild

• BA in Care and Education & Childhood Studies – Northumbria University

• Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector (DTLLS) – University of Sunderland

• Elklan qualification – Supporting children with Autism

• Certificate in Working Therapeutically with Autistic Clients 

• Story Stem Assessment Profile 

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My Background

 

With over 20 years of experience I’ve worked across education, social care, and mental health services, developing a deep understanding of the challenges faced by children, young people, and families. I began my career in educational inclusion working across primary, secondary and further education settings before training as a psychotherapeutic counsellor.  My work has consistently focused on supporting vulnerable and neurodivergent individuals, and my practice remains rooted in a flexible, responsive, and compassionate approach. 

 

Before starting in private practice, I worked for Barnardo’s specialist trauma service, Orchard Mosaic, supporting children and families affected by bereavement and sexual abuse. 

 

Creativity in Practice

 

Creativity is at the heart of how I work. My early background in art and textiles continues to inspire my therapeutic practice today. I believe that creative, imaginative methods can offer powerful pathways to healing, self-expression, and personal growth. Offering this type of therapeutic space can often provide an environment where clients can explore their inner world without the pressure of having to find the right words. 

 

That said, I understand that creative approaches aren’t for everyone. Whether you prefer to engage through art, play, or talking therapy, I’ll work in a way that feels comfortable, respectful, and right for you.