About Stepping Stone Therapy

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

 

As an integrative counsellor, I draw on a range of therapeutic approaches to meet each young person’s unique needs. My aim is to help them explore their emotions, build resilience, improve emotional well-being, and work towards their personal goals. I’m passionate about using creative methods in my work and enjoy incorporating interventions such as clay, paint, puppets, drawing, imagery, and sand tray work. My approach is always flexible and child-led.

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I can offer support for a variety of issues, including anxiety, low mood, relational difficulties, bullying, grief and loss, sleep challenges, emotional dysregulation, and trauma. I’ve worked extensively with neurodivergent young people and tailor each session to meet them exactly where they are in that moment.

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I hold a Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling from the Northern Guild, a Bachelor’s degree in Care and Education and Childhood Studies from Northumbria University, and a Teaching in the Life Long Learning Sector certificate from the University of Sunderland. I also have an Elklan qualification in supporting children with autism.

 

With over 20 years of experience working with children, young people, and families across education, social care, and mental health settings, I’ve developed a deep understanding of the challenges faced by diverse and vulnerable groups. Much of my work has focused on supporting neurodivergent young people, and I take a flexible, child-led approach—meeting each individual where they are, in the moment.

 

Before moving into private practice, I worked in the charity sector with Barnardo’s specialist trauma service, Orchard Mosaic. This service offered therapeutic support to children and families affected by bereavement and sexual abuse.

 

Creativity has always been a core part of my approach. After leaving school, I studied art and textiles—two passions that continue to inspire my practice today. I love incorporating creative methods into my work and find that working in expressive, imaginative ways can open up powerful avenues for making sense of your experience and self-discovery.

 

That said, I also understand that while some clients thrive with creative approaches, others can find them unfamiliar or even daunting. I’m here to support each person in the way that feels most comfortable and effective for them—whether that’s through talking, art, play, or a more structured approach. Flexibility and sensitivity to each client’s unique needs are central to the way I work.