Amy Fairchild MBACP Counsellor

Traditionally, therapists have been trained not to talk about themselves or to “self-disclose.” However, in today’s world, information about most of us is widely available online. While I strongly believe we are all entitled to our privacy, I also recognise that a little context can be helpful. Below is some information about my background, career history, and interests, which may help inform your choice.

From an early age, I became aware of how unjust and unfair our world can be, and I have continually sought to educate myself in order to be a more thoughtful citizen and compassionate friend. I was fortunate to grow up in a multicultural community in the South East of England, where the lived experiences of friends from diverse backgrounds broadened my understanding and perspective.

As a teenager, I struggled to know what I wanted to do with my life, but I knew I wanted to see some of the world. And so began an extended ‘gap year’ that lasted six years. I worked and travelled widely, which, as it turns out, was a fantastic education in itself—and I’m eternally grateful to my younger, ‘lost’ self. Along the way, I discovered yoga, which gave me a sense of myself I hadn’t previously experienced, and ultimately led me towards my current profession.

I became a parent to two children in my late twenties, who continue to be a source of wonder and love. Parenting has been a long and sometimes challenging education for me. While I admire the journey many parents experience, I am also mindful that it is both a privilege not available to everyone and not a path everyone chooses.

I have spent much of my life in and out of relationships and find them fascinating—beautiful and heartbreaking in equal measure. I don’t believe there is one “right” way to be in relationship, but I do believe they are a rich source of self-awareness and growth. I am still learning.

Throughout my life, the arts have played an important role in healing. I grew up in a creative family, was drawn to artists and musicians as close friends, and have always found deep joy in creative expression. Whether listening to and dancing to music, making things out of cardboard, clay or paint, reading voraciously, or encouraging (sometimes reluctant) friends to join me at films and performances, I can’t imagine a life without art or festivals.

I retrained as a counsellor in my forties and qualified in 2018. Prior to this, I worked primarily in event management within the games and music industries, as well as in hospitality management—including running my own café and shop—and as a yoga teacher. Eventually, I found what I felt called to do. When I discovered Internal Family Systems Therapy, I knew I had arrived home.

While my life has not been without its challenges, I am also very aware of the privileges I experienced in my childhood. I remain committed to using that privilege, and my voice, to speak up and challenge systemic and ongoing injustices.

I currently live in North Devon, where I continue (with varying degrees of success) to try to surf. Yoga remains a central pillar in my life, alongside travel and, of course, music. I am committed to personal development and remain open to change.