Business Details
32 Years
experience
Trusted Mental Health Counselling Services in Aberdeen
Established in 1994, we are a trusted charitable organisation dedicated to providing accessible mental health support to adults across Aberdeen. Our team of 27 volunteer counsellors and experienced professionals delivers client-centred therapy grounded in empathy and non-judgmental listening. As recipients of the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service in 2016, we maintain rigorous standards while operating a donation-based model to ensure financial accessibility. Our 10-session counselling framework, implemented since 2025, prioritises timely support with appointments typically available within two to three weeks.We combine 28 years of sector experience with continuous service improvements, including flexible evening appointments and volunteer-led administrative support. Our mission remains focused on empowering individuals to achieve personal growth and improved mental wellbeing through professional therapeutic relationships.
Services
Counselling
Emotional Support
Mental Health Therapy
Donation-Based Sessions
Volunteer Counsellors
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- We have 28 years' experience in adult mental health support
- Our team includes 27 volunteer counsellors with specialist training
- We operate a flexible donation-based pricing model
- Appointments available within two to three weeks
- Queen's Award-winning service framework
Associations and certifications
- Queen's Award for Voluntary Service
Services
Counselling
Our core counselling service provides structured one-to-one therapy sessions with trained professionals. Clients receive weekly appointments over a 10-session programme, with initial meetings focused on needs assessment. This evidence-based approach enables clients to explore personal challenges in a safe, confidential environment.
Emotional Support
Specialist emotional support addresses anxiety, depression, and life transitions through tailored therapeutic interventions. Our counsellors employ person-centred techniques to help clients develop coping strategies and improve emotional resilience. Support includes evening appointments to accommodate working professionals' schedules.
Donation-Based Sessions
We operate a donation-based model with optional fixed-fee faster access appointments. This approach ensures financial accessibility while maintaining service quality. Clients contribute according to their means, with no charge for standard waiting list appointments.
Volunteer Counsellors
Our 27 volunteer counsellors hold current professional qualifications and undergo regular supervision. They deliver consistent service standards through structured training and adherence to ethical guidelines. Volunteers contribute to both direct client care and administrative support functions.
Community Support
We provide targeted mental health support for Aberdeen residents, including outreach to vulnerable populations. Our community-focused approach includes partnerships with local agencies and tailored programmes addressing regional mental health needs through accessible service delivery.
People
Claire Moggach
Chief Executive
Overseeing strategic direction with 15+ years in mental health leadership. Claire ensures service quality and organisational development while maintaining charitable objectives.
Leasha Esslemont
Counselling Services Manager
Manages day-to-day operations with 12 years' clinical experience. Leasha supervises counsellors and maintains professional standards across all therapeutic interventions.
Denise Mair
Senior Counsellor
Provides advanced therapeutic support with specialist training in trauma-informed care. Denise has delivered counselling services since 2008 across various community settings.
Kathy Bond
Counsellor Supervisor
Offers professional development guidance with 20+ years in mental health education. Kathy ensures counsellors maintain best practices through regular supervision sessions.
Ross Thomson
Community Fundraiser
Coordinates fundraising initiatives and public engagement. Ross has secured 500k+ in grants since 2016 to sustain our donation-based service model.
Questions
How do I access counselling sessions?
Complete our online referral form or contact us directly. We typically schedule appointments within two to three weeks of referral receipt.
What are the session costs?
Standard sessions operate on a donation basis. We also offer fixed-fee faster access appointments at £50 per session for individuals.
Are volunteer counsellors qualified?
All 27 volunteer counsellors hold current professional qualifications and participate in regular supervision to maintain service standards.
How long does therapy last?
Our structured programme typically involves 10 weekly sessions, with completion agreed jointly between client and counsellor based on individual needs.
What caused service changes in 2025?
Following Mental Health Aberdeen's closure, we adjusted session numbers to 10 per client to maintain service quality while supporting increased demand.
Can I get additional sessions?
Clients may re-refer one month after completion to access further support with a new therapeutic focus identified during reflection period.