About Us

I'm Gemma and my core training is as a person-centred counsellor. Alongside more general client work in private practice, I also have experience of working with survivors of sexual abuse and sexual violence for a local specialist charity. This has given me an understanding of the impact that trauma can have on people's lives and what can be helpful when working to address it.

I work in a way to help clients feel heard, validated and empowered in an accepting and non-judgemental space, whilst exploring together to offer insight.

I hold a BSc (Hons) in Psychology from Staffordshire University and PGDip Counselling and Psychotherapy from University of Cumbria. I am also a member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy.

My name is Debbie and I've spent the last few years working with both individuals and couples in Private Practice.

Alongside this, I work for a cancer charity, helping patients or carers, as well as those bereaved. I have also worked with a domestic violence charity, specialising in building self-esteem and helping families rebuild.

I work alongside my clients in an intuitive and collaborative way, with the aim of them reaching their desired goals and outcomes, whether that be in individual therapy or relationship counselling.

I am a registered member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy, have a FD in Counselling and Psychotherapy from Derby University and graduated with a 1st in BA (Hons) in Counselling and Psychotherapy from Liverpool John Moores University. I also have a Masters Degree in Human Resource Management (MA (HRM) and hold a Certificate in Working with Couples (NCIP Accred).

Hi, I’m Helena and I joined Open Minds in April 2025. I have worked in private practice for the previous two years whilst also working as a counsellor at Maundy Relief, a charity in Accrington.

I work in a way which helps you to explore the roots of your difficulties and how they may be impacting how you are feeling right now. This is often experienced by you, as feeling that you could be getting on better in your life, maybe something is holding you back and you can’t quite work out what. If this sounds like you get in touch with us here at Open Minds.

I have a Post Grad Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy from the University of Cumbria. Throughout my working life I have worked closely with people either in health or education, having previously worked as a Physiotherapist. I completed my training, many years ago, on leaving school. I have also been employed as a teaching assistant in a local primary school for many years. I believe my various roles add to my skills as a counsellor and enable me to work with you.

Some of the issues we deal with:

Back to Home

Depression
Anxiety and Phobias
Relationship Difficulties - couples and families
Life Transitions
Difficulties with Self-Esteem
Eating Issues
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Professional/Career Issues
Medical and Health Concerns
Stress Management
Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)
Sexual Abuse / Domestic Violence
Spirituality
Gender Identity Support
LGBT Counseling
Grief, Loss, or Bereavement
Other Issues