Amy Fairchild MBACP Counsellor

Personal talking therapy in North Devon and internationally via Zoom

Change is always possible

You're probably here because things aren't going well right now, they haven't in the past, or you're worried about the future, maybe all three. I understand - we all have difficulties to overcome at points in our lives. In fact, I believe that these times when we struggle can be our greatest opportunities for personal growth and enrichment. I know it can be daunting, overwhelming even, but I assure you that I am here to support you, and offer you the security and space, so you can explore your inner world safely, and at the right pace for you.

I'm drawn to understanding you as an individual, what you experience, think and feel, and how you relate to the world around you and your own personal history. With curiosity and compassion, I will guide you to understand how and why you feel and interact as you do. By getting to know and understand yourself in this way, you will gain clarity and courage to move forward and make decisions from an informed position. By choosing to seek out therapy, you have already taken a big step, I will be here with you on the journey.

I am an Integrative Counsellor, mainly focussed on Internal Family Systems therapy and Brainspotting, which is a mindfully focussed processing technique. Through a tailored approach - different for each individual - we will work through your concerns towards your desired goals. I believe that you have within you the ability to connect with your core sense of compassion, courage and calm curiosity that will allow you to discover who and how you truly are, and go on to serve you throughout your life.

I currently work from my practice in Ilfracombe and online internationally via Zoom, which is a free and easy to use app that I can help you set up. I offer short and long-term therapy with sessions typically being 1 hour long at a time to suit you. For online sessions you just need a quiet place where you won't be interrupted or feel overheard and a good WiFi or 4/5G connection.

Counselling can offer support through a difficult time, a deeper understanding of yourself and others, increased self-confidence, and a more positive outlook. As a guide, amongst other things, counselling can help with the following:
Anxiety, panic attacks, anger management, bullying, depression, domestic violence, eating disorders, family issues, grief, illness, low self-esteem, sexual abuse, stress, suicidal thoughts, relationship issues, trauma.

I will keep your well-being and needs at the very forefront of the work, always aiming to empower you to find your own solutions - please contact me for more information.

I have a level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling and since qualifying in 2018 I have taken further training in Internal Family Systems therapy and Brainspotting phase 1 & 2. I have worked as a Counsellor in an GP surgery, private health clinic, and now privately from my home practice.

I am also a qualified yoga teacher and practitioner and draw on these learnings in my work, particularly breath work and meditation. I have had a varied career before retraining as a Counsellor in my early forties, including roles in event production, hospitality and catering, retail management and having my own business.

I continue to further my knowledge and experience, keeping up with the latest developments in psychology and neuroscience, as well as continuing my own personal growth and understanding, to ensure I can offer the best help to each individual.

I am deeply committed to global equality and community and always strive to be best educated and inclusive of the diversity of culture and religion, race, sex and gender, sexuality, age and disability in the world. I warmly welcome any feedback from all clients on these issues and any others to further improve my services and their experience.

I am fully insured and a registered member of the BACP - British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy.

Qualifications and experience imageQualifications and experience image
  • Hillsborough Road, Ilfracombe, UK

What is counselling?

Whilst often sought out in times of difficulty, counselling can be an enjoyable experience and have extremely positive outcomes. For many people it is the first time that they have experienced being completely listened to, and this in itself can be hugely therapeutic.

Counselling is a talking therapy where, through the creation of a positive, supportive and non-judgmental relationship between yourself and the counsellor, you can safely explore your thoughts, feelings.

Through this process it is possible to gain a deeper understanding of yourself and how you relate to the world around you. This can increase confidence, help you find solutions and give you the ability to move forward in life. By developing your natural curiosity and awareness of self, an on-going resilience and optimism for the future can be gained and maintained.


Do I need counselling?

Ultimately this is up to you, and it is always your decision as to when you start, continue or stop therapy. For a guide, amongst other things, counselling can help with the following:
Anxiety, anger management, bullying, depression, domestic violence, eating disorders, family issues, grief, illness, low self esteem, sexual abuse, stress, suicidal thoughts, relationship issues, trauma.

Where do the sessions take place?

I work from my own private room in Ilfracombe with level access from the street.

I also work online via a highly secure app called Zoom which is free to use and easy to set up. I am happy to help with any technical questions and assist you in getting started.

How does online Counselling work?

Online Counselling is very similar to being in one room together for sessions . I work from the same private room and you would need a quiet and private place with a computer or tablet and WiFi connection.

Once you have downloaded the app Zoom onto your device I will contact you via email with an appointment time and link which you just have to click on at the arranged time and it will open the window into our session.

If you have used any video calling before then it is very similar, but I can help you with any questions you might have.

How does online Counselling differ from meeting in the same room?

There are many benefits to working online and some considerations but we can discuss any concerns you may have beforehand on the phone or via email. Here are some of the benefits:
  • No need to travel as you can be in the comfort of your own home
  • If you have children we can work at a time when they are occupied or in bed so you won't need to arrange childcare
  • You can work with a Counsellor from anywhere in the country, giving you more choice and anonymity 

How long will it take?

This is different for everyone but typically you will see a counsellor for between 6 and 20 sessions. However, some people have longer-term therapy, or return for short periods regularly throughout their lives. What is paramount, is that you are committed to the process and feel that you have a good connection with your counsellor.


How much does it cost?

I offer 1 hour sessions for individuals for £50 and for couples at £85 for 75 minutes both online or here in Ilfracombe. I will also consider concessions for those on low income.

Is it completely confidential?

Yes - what you tell me in our sessions will remain between us only. In your initial session I will explain to you about confidentiality as there are one or two rare exceptions, but these are only in place for your own safety and that of others. 

What do I do now?

What do I do now?
Once you have made the first step to seeking help, like searching for a counsellor, it can be a bit daunting making the next one. If you have any questions, want to make an appointment, or would just like to ask me about what I can offer and when I am available, please just email or call me on the contact details provided. There is absolutely no obligation in this and I understand that you may only be wanting to know a bit more at this point.
If you then decide to go ahead we will discuss where and when suits you and book your first session. During this session, you can tell me about why you are looking for help and what you want to gain from counselling. After our initial appointment, you can decide whether you would like to arrange further sessions - it's really important that you feel comfortable with whoever you choose to see.

I have another question?

Please do not hesitate to get in touch by email or phone if you have any further questions whatsoever. I am happy to have a chat with you before you decide whether you wish to begin counselling.