Paula Peden

Are you feeling stuck in your relationships - whether at work, in your family, or with your partner? Do you struggle with low self-esteem, people-pleasing, or repeating patterns that leave you feeling unheard, exhausted, or disconnected? Maybe neurodiversity plays a role in your life, and you're navigating the challenges and strengths that come with ADHD or Autism, either for yourself or a loved one.

Life can sometimes feel isolating and lonely, even when you’re surrounded by friends or family. I offer relationship counselling for individuals, therapy for ADHD and Autism, and support for parents of neurodivergent children. Many of my clients are navigating work stress, family conflict, or self-esteem issues, and I help them gain clarity, set healthy boundaries, and build stronger connections. My approach is strengths-based and neurodiversity-affirming, helping clients embrace who they are and create a life that feels authentic and fulfilling.

I offer in-person, online and telephone counselling, and walk and talk therapy at Wrest Park, making sessions flexible and accessible. Walking in nature can be incredibly soothing, helping to lower stress and anxiety. Plus, walking side by side can feel less intense than sitting face-to-face, often making it easier to open up and share what’s really on your mind.

Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, burnout, trauma, or difficulties in relationships, I offer a supportive, non-judgmental space to explore what’s holding you back.

If you’re ready to break free from unhelpful patterns, build self-confidence, and improve your relationships, I’d love to support you. Get in touch today to book a free initial consultation or find out more about how I can help.

As a qualified psychotherapeutic counsellor and former senior executive, I understand how high-pressure careers can strain relationships and mental well-being. Balancing work and parenthood brings real challenges to family dynamics and personal connections. As a parent of a neurodivergent child, I also have firsthand insight into both the joys and struggles that come with neurodiversity.

As an integrative therapist, I draw on blend of theoretical approaches to help you understand how past experiences shape your present, empowering you to make informed choices. I can support you to understand and address challenges in communication or perhaps draw on mindfulness to manage symptoms or CBT to support and change behaviour.

My background also includes specialist training in trauma-informed therapy, particularly in childhood experiences, a neuro-affirmative approach to counselling and emotional regulation.

Alongside private practice, I continue to volunteer for a trauma-based charity Living Your Life, have worked with Minds and a local upper school. I am also a Trustee for Mind BLMK.

I offer a free 20-minute introductory call prior to arranging our initial counselling session where we can discuss what you are hoping for from counselling and how we might work together.

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to forget to make time for yourself. If you are able to come to Wrest Park or the Happy Body Project, you’ll instantly feel the calm of nature around you.

My counselling room offers a peaceful space where you can leave the pressures of everyday life behind and just focus on you. However you are able to access counselling, together, we’ll work through whatever you’re facing, with understanding and empathy.

Our initial session is up to 60 minutes and includes deeper discussion on your goals for therapy, relationship and family history. This gives context to our sessions together.

Regular counselling sessions last 50 minutes, usually taking place on a weekly basis, and cost from £60 per session. I also provide a limited number of spaces for those on low-income or for students; contact me to enquire about availability.