Ali Griffin Counselling
person centred COUNSELLING IN Henley on Thames, Maidenhead & Online
Welcome to Ali Griffin Counselling in Henley on Thames, Maidenhead & Online
The only person with the power to change your life is you. If you’re ready to take that step, please get in touch.
Life Doesn't Always Go to Plan
Sometimes, it can get messy. You might be struggling to get through each day with anxiety, carrying hurt from your past, or just feeling stuck in a life that doesn't quite fit anymore. I've sat with people from all walks of life who've felt exactly the same way. The hardest part? Often, it's just making that first call. But if we work together, I’m not here to tell you what's wrong or hand out quick fixes. Instead, we create a space to be really heard, without judgement or advice. A place where you can breathe, think, and find your own way forward - with someone alongside you who genuinely cares.
I’m Ali, and I work with adults from all backgrounds. I offer person-centred counselling that puts you in the driving seat. As a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), I provide both short-term and long term support, depending on what you need. We can meet face-to-face in my Henley-on-Thames or Cookham therapy rooms, try walk and talk sessions in Maidenhead and nearby areas, or connect online or by phone if that works better for you. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, working through trauma, grieving a loss, struggling with relationships, or simply feeling overwhelmed by life, I offer a place where your experiences matter and your voice counts.
What Actually Happens in Counselling?
Counselling isn't about lying on a couch while someone nods and says "how does that make you feel?" It's a genuine conversation where you can finally put down the mask we all wear sometimes. My job isn't to analyse you or tell you what to do, it's to really listen and help you make sense of things yourself. I believe you already have the answers you need; sometimes they're just buried under life's complications. We'll work at your pace, focusing on what matters to you. There's no script to follow and no right or wrong way to feel. Just honest conversation in a place where you can be yourself without fear of judgement.
Why Counselling Makes a Difference?
Ever noticed how much clearer things become when you talk them through? That's because putting thoughts into words helps us understand them better. In counselling, you get the rare chance to focus completely on yourself without worrying about burdening anyone else. Many people find they sleep better, think more clearly, and handle life's ups and downs with more confidence after counselling. It's not about becoming a different person – it's about becoming more comfortably you. You might discover patterns you never noticed before, find new ways to cope when things get tough, or simply feel the relief of being truly understood.
"It’s not what happens, it’s how you deal with it"
What I Can Help With?
Life throws all sorts of challenges our way. I've worked with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, trauma, relationship problems and depression. I've supported those struggling with work stress, family conflicts, self-esteem issues, addiction, and major life changes. Whatever you're facing, chances are I've helped someone through something similar. But I also know that your experience is uniquely yours. Sometimes people come to counselling not because something's "wrong," but because they want to understand themselves better, and that's equally valuable.
While I work with all sorts of issues, I have particular experience supporting people through trauma, especially childhood trauma. Having witnessed the lasting impact these experiences can have, I'm passionate about creating a safe space where difficult memories can be processed at your own pace.
My locations
My practice is based in Henley-on-Thames and Cookham, which are accessible from Maidenhead, Reading, Windsor, Marlow, High Wycombe, Slough and the surrounding areas.
The Henley-on-Thames therapy room is conveniently located on the High Street in the heart of town. There's plenty of parking nearby, with two car parks within a four-minute walk offering an hour of free parking. The location is a short walk from bus stops serving local routes, and approximately 15 minutes' walk from Henley railway station with connections to Reading and London. Please note that the therapy room is on the first floor with no lift access.
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My Cookham location is situated right next to Cookham railway station, making it easily accessible by public transport from Maidenhead and Marlow. There's ample parking nearby for those travelling by car. Like the Henley location, this space is on the first floor.
For walk and talk therapy, we can meet at various locations in Maidenhead and the surrounding areas, which we can discuss based on your preferences and practical considerations.
Sessions & Fees
I believe in keeping things straightforward and transparent. Here's everything you need to know about sessions, fees, and practical arrangements.
Initial Consultation
- Free 20-minute phone or online consultation
- A chance to ask questions and see if we're a good fit
- No obligation to book further sessions
Regular Sessions
- 50-minute sessions
- £50 per session (standard fee)
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- Available in person, online via Zoom, or as walk and talk therapy
- Usually weekly, but we can discuss what works best for you
- Both short-term and longer-term work available
Concessions
I'm committed to making counselling accessible. A limited number of reduced-fee places are available for those on low incomes, students, and older adults. Please contact me to discuss options if cost is a barrier.
Payment Details
- Payment is due 24 hours before each session
- Bank transfer is the preferred payment method (details provided after booking)
Cancellation Policy
Life happens, and I understand that sometimes sessions need to be rearranged. However, to ensure I can manage my practice effectively:
- 24 hours' notice is required to cancel or reschedule a session
- Sessions cancelled with less than 24 hours' notice will be charged in full
- Exceptional circumstances will be considered on a case-by-case basis
If you need to cancel or reschedule, please let me know as soon as possible by email or phone.
Ready When You Are
Thinking about giving counselling a try? I offer a free 20-minute chat by phone or online with no strings attached. It's a chance for us to meet, for you to ask questions, and to see if we might work well together. No pressure, no obligations – just a conversation. Whenever you're ready, I'm here.
“Don’t give your past the power to define your future”
Get in touch
Thank You for Reaching Out
Taking that first step to get in touch can be the hardest part of seeking support, so thank you for being here. Whether you're ready to book an initial consultation or just have questions about how counselling might help, I'm here to listen.
The easiest way to contact me is by email. I aim to respond to all enquiries within 24 hours during weekdays.
Contact Form
Alternatively, you can use the contact form to send me a message. Please include your preferred contact method and any information you'd like me to know before getting in touch.
What Happens Next?
After you get in touch, we'll arrange a free 20-minute consultation by phone or online. This gives us both a chance to see if we might work well together. There's no obligation to book further sessions after this initial conversation.
I look forward to hearing from you and potentially being part of your journey.
Some frequently asked questions
How long does counselling last?
There's no one-size-fits-all answer to this. Some people find that a few sessions help them through a specific situation, while others benefit from longer-term work. We'll regularly review our progress together, and you can decide to pause or end counselling whenever you feel ready. There's no minimum commitment beyond your first session.
What's the difference between counselling in person and online?
In-person sessions offer face to face connection in a dedicated space, while online counselling provides flexibility and accessibility from your own environment. Both can be equally effective. It really comes down to your preference and practical considerations. Some people start with one format and switch to another, which is absolutely fine.
Is everything I say confidential?
Yes, with some important exceptions. I follow the BACP ethical framework, which means I would need to break confidentiality if I believed you or someone else was at serious risk of harm, or if required by law. I'll always try to discuss this with you first if possible. I also discuss my work with a supervisor, but this is done anonymously and is part of ensuring I'm providing the best support possible.
What happens in our first proper session?
Our first full session is about getting to know each other a bit better. I'll ask you to complete some simple paperwork and we'll talk about what's brought you to counselling and what you hope to get from it. There's no pressure to share anything you're not comfortable with. We go at your pace. It's also a chance for you to get a feel for how I work and ask any questions you might have.
Do I have to walk during walk and talk therapy?
Not at all! The "walk" part is completely optional. Some clients prefer to sit on a bench. Others might walk for part of the session and sit for the rest. It's all about what feels comfortable for you on the day. The key benefit is being outdoors rather than the walking itself.
What if the weather is bad for a walk and talk session?
We always have a backup plan. If the weather turns nasty, we can reschedule, switch to an online session, or use my indoor therapy space if available. Before starting walk and talk therapy, we'll discuss these options so you know exactly what to expect if the British weather decides not to cooperate!
Do I need special clothing or footwear for walk and talk?
Nothing special required, just comfortable clothing and footwear appropriate for the weather. We won't be hiking up mountains or power walking, just gentle strolling on flat, accessible paths. Dress as you normally would for a casual walk in the park.
What if I'm worried about privacy during walk and talk therapy?
This is a common concern. I carefully choose routes that offer privacy, avoiding busy areas. If we do see someone approaching, we can pause the conversation or switch to a more neutral topic. I've found that most people are absorbed in their own worlds and pay little attention to others. That said, if privacy is a major concern, indoor or online sessions might be better options for you.
What if I'm nervous about walk and talk therapy?
That's completely normal! Many people worry about bumping into someone they know, getting tired, or what happens if the weather turns bad. We'll discuss all these practical aspects before starting and can always have a backup plan. We can start with a short walk to see how it feels, or even begin with traditional counselling and try walk and talk later if you're curious. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable.
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