Stuart Forster

Stuart ForsterWe all need the time and space to offload sometimes as we sometimes struggle with the impact of life events.

If you are struggling emotionally with whatever life has thrown at you, and feel that you are reaching your crisis point, perhaps feeling fragile, vulnerable, or overwhelmed, then you have made the first steps in acknowledging it and seeking help.

I can offer you that non-judgemental peaceful, space and time to explore your thoughts feelings and emotions.

As an Integrative therapist with over twenty years’ experience, I draw on elements of various therapeutic techniques or models, individually tailored to suit my client’s unique needs, rather than a one size fits all approach.

After graduating with a Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling from Durham University, my career as a Counsellor began with Northumberland County Blind Association and Northumbria Sight Services. Being part of a team (including Consultant’s GP’s, Social Workers, Occupational Therapists and the RNIB Liaison Officer at the Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne), my role being to
provide emotional support to those clients suffering from the effects of partial or total sight loss and helping them to regain their confidence and live independently in their
own homes.

I did take a break from my role as a Counsellor and moved with my family to Durham due to being a carer for relatives with life limiting illnesses, so am aware and have experienced of the effects, pressures and impacts of long-term caring.

Since my return several years ago, I have been a counsellor to Students and University Staff, members of the Emergency Services, Caring, Teaching, Veterinary, Legal, Ecclesiastical professions, as well as Military Veterans and the Farming community.

However, whatever your role, I am here to listen and share and support you on your journey, giving you the opportunity to effect positive change and growth with care and compassion.

I can offer either Face to Face, or online counselling.

  • ADHD
  • AS
  • Anxiety
  • Bereavement
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Borderline Personality (BPD)
  • Burnout
  • Carers support
  • Career Counselling
  • Coping Skills
  • Depression
  • LBGTQ+
  • Life Transitions
  • Low Self Esteem
  • Passive-Aggressive issues
  • Relationship Issues
  • Suicidal Ideation
  • Trauma and PTSD
  • Work Related Stress

Where I work

I work from locations within Durham City and Houghton le Spring.

When I work

Monday: Morning, Afternoon and Evening
Tuesday: Morning, Afternoon and Evening
Wednesday: Afternoon and Evening
Thursday: Evening
Friday: Morning

Qualifications and Training

Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling, Durham University

Recent Courses

  • Compassion Fatigue – The Cost of Caring
  • Attachment and Resilience
  • Revolutionising Trauma Treatment
  • Suicide Intervention

National Autistic Society

  • Autism and Sensory Experience
  • Autism and Communication
  • Autism: Stress and Anxiety
  • Autism: Supporting Families

Professional Memberships – BACP

BACP Accredited Register

Counselling Models Offered

  • Person centred counselling
  • Integrated Therapy
  • Solution Focussed – Brief Therapy
  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
  • Mindfulness

Fees: £60 per 50-minute session.

*Concessionary rates for Students and those on low income.

Contact Details

Telephone: 07467402786
Email: via web form

Past Client comments

“I felt that in a short space of time I was able to make progress, and it helped me
systematically to put my thought processes in order and respond to an action plan
accordingly”. (Client A H)

“At first, I was in two minds about this, because I avoided the subject. I found my
experience education, practical and very enjoyable – I would be happy to recommend
Stuart to friends and family.” (Client O L)

“I felt that the relationship demonstrated high levels of competence and
professionalism on behalf of the counsellor. My needs were met and my
expectations exceeded.” (Client R P)

“I have climbed the first part of the mountain and know in time that in time I will get to
the top. No looking back, only forwards. I don’t think I could have done it without your
help, and support. Thank you again”. (Client J H)

“I feel I have learned and grown”. (Client M T)