Welcome to Iris Counselling
I am an experienced Bristol-based integrative therapist
Using Person-Centred, Gestalt, Psychosynthesis and Psychodynamic techniques, I specialise in supporting clients in journeys of self-discovery, navigating transitions, processing trauma, and reflecting at existential ‘crossroads’.
I am highly adept and experienced at working with ADHD, autism, SEND parents and understanding the impact of approaching or processing a diagnosis at any life stage. I work with clients of all backgrounds and ages, in-person, online, at home or walk and talk, and can help with:
Abuse, ADD / ADHD, anxiety, ASD, AuDHD, bereavement, chronic illness (cancer/autoimmune disorders), cultural issues, depression, disability, identity issues, LGBTQ+ counselling, loss, menopause, men's issues, mood disorder, neurodiversity, post-traumatic stress, pregnancy related issues, redundancy, relationships, self-esteem, sensory impairment, sexual identity, sexuality, stress, trauma, women's issues, work related issues and more.
About Me
Rebecca Knee, Counsellor
I am an integrative counsellor using person-centred theory, gestalt, psychosynthesis and psychodynamic techniques to help clients explore and better understand themselves, their experiences and responses, and the origins of emotions and distress, in the quest for change, healing, serenity and self-acceptance.
I have experience of therapy's profound transformational impact, both personally and for my clients. I believe the key to successful therapy is an excellent client-therapist relationship. Above all, openness and understanding will enable you to benefit from the positive changes that can occur for you following work at relational depth.
Areas of Experience
Approaching or returning to counselling is a hugely positive step, and working with the right counsellor is key. My hope for you is that our work together can equip you with the insights, tools and reflections to enable you to work trauma, loss, internal conflicts, identity struggles, illness, life changes, anxiety, work issues, lack of self-worth, depression, relationship problems, and more. I have also supported counselling students through their studies and path to professionalism.
I work with clients of all ages and backgrounds, with an inclusive approach. My lived and professional experience makes me adept and highly experienced at helping clients process and understand a diagnosis of autism, ADHD or auDHD, or work through feelings and signs that this may be something you want to approach at any stage of life.
I am inclusive, and have an inherent understanding of neurodiversity, carers' issues, SEND parenting, the toll of navigating the SEN system for parents, and multiple parenting. I have significant experience of supporting parent carers navigate the barriers and mental toll presented by the SEND education and support system and have a strong network of relevant contacts and organisations I can incorporate and refer on to, which support this process.
I welcome clients from all backgrounds, ages and personal circumstances. I offer a warm, secure, empathic space within which we can explore your feelings and responses to relationships, life events and the world.
Qualifications & Membership
- CPCAB Level 2 in Counselling Skills
- CPCAB Level 3 in Counselling Studies
- CPCAB Level 4 in Therapeutic Counselling (integrative, BACP approved certified competence)
- CPCAB Level 5 in Psychotherapeutic Counselling
- BACP registered member
How I Work
I am an integrative counsellor, meaning I combine techniques from person-centred, psychodynamic, gestalt and psychosynthesis around a cohesive relationship framework depending on the issues and patterns presenting themselves. This is also dictated by the kind of relationship we form as therapist and client - everything should feel right for you. I provide diligent, professional, empathic and compassionate counselling that will meet you where you need to be met in your individual situation and therapy goals.
The sessions run at your pace, and I will always be led by what you feel comfortable bringing into the space and how you are feeling in that moment. Approaching counselling for the first, - or even subsequent - time, can be an intimidating thought, so the experience should be anything but.
The counsellor's space and demeanour must be warm and gently curious, completely non-judgemental, and most importantly the right personal match for the client. I came to this work from a busy, high-pressure career, after experiencing positive effects first hand; so you could say I truly walk the talk - I am a therapy convert!.
I love people, and it is crucial to me that so much of what we carry day to day is not worn on the surface; in fact many people never have the space, words or encouragement to explore their feelings. Facilitating a client’s therapy journey is a humbling privilege, the sacred nature of which can never be understated.
Our First Session
During our initial session, we will review information obtained from a brief assessment questionnaire and discuss the factors that have led you to seek therapy.
It is also an opportunity for us to get to know each other and for you to ask me any questions you have about my previous work, what therapy might look like for you, how you would like to work towards your therapy goals, and glean an idea of how we’d work together. It is important that you feel the therapy space belongs to you, and that everything feels right from the outset.
The work we do in this first session will provide you with reflections and time to decide if you feel you would like to start your therapy journey with me, and comes at no cost.
Why Iris?
Iris is the goddess of rainbows, which represent hope. Appearing often after a period of turbulent weather, rainbows denote the calm and beautiful moment after the storm. Counselling which meets your needs can offers solace, calm, and hope that profound and positive change can come after times of trauma and pain.
Iris flowers represent wisdom, faith, courage and spiritual rebirth.
In Psychosynthesis, the Eye, or I, symbolises awareness, inner vision, and the observing self. It represents the capacity to witness thoughts, emotions, and experiences with clarity and detachment, helping us move beyond ego identification toward deeper self-realisation and spiritual integration. The eye is the pathway to realising the Self; our deeper true essence, a spiritual identity, will and meaning. Through self-observation, reflection, and disidentification from limiting patterns, a person gradually aligns the personality with the deeper Self. This provides great integration, authenticity, inner harmony and purposeful living.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can counselling help with?
Counselling offers a confidential space to explore whatever is on your mind; trauma, relationship difficulties, identity, past patterns and more. People often seek support for anxiety, low mood, stress, bereavement, feeling overwhelmed or lost. You don’t need to be in crisis. Many clients come simply because something feels blocked, or not quite right, and they want to understand themselves better.
What does it mean to be a BACP registered counsellor?
Being registered with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) means I work to recognised professional and ethical standards. This includes ongoing training, regular supervision, and a commitment to providing safe, ethical counselling.
Do you offer online counselling or in-person sessions?
I offer both online counselling across the UK and Europe and face-to-face therapy sessions locally. Online sessions are held via secure video platforms, making it easier to access support from home. In-person sessions provide a more traditional setting if you prefer meeting in a dedicated counselling space.
I can offer 'walk and talk' session which provide the opportunity to add the healing effects of nature to the work, and home visits to those who are isolated, anxious or affected by a physical or mental condition limiting ability to leave the house.
Is online counselling as effective as face-to-face therapy?
Online counselling is not only as effective as face-to-face therapy, it is often more convenient. Therapists receive training in how to maximise the effectiveness of the online space, to ensure additional checks for client wellbeing, and ensure the process works seamlessly and safely.
COVID lockdowns further opened us up to the possibility of the online space, and it works very successfully for many clients.
How do I know if counselling is right for me?
If you're considering counselling, that in itself is often a good starting point. You don’t need to have a clear “problem” or know exactly what you want to say. An initial session can help you decide whether counselling feels helpful and whether we’re a good fit to work together.
What happens in the first counselling session?
The first session is a chance for us to get to know each other. We’ll talk about what brings you to counselling, what you’d like support with, and any questions you may have. There’s no pressure to share everything straight away, you can go at your own pace.
How many sessions will I need?
There’s no fixed number. Some people attend short-term counselling for a specific issue, while others prefer longer-term, open-ended support. We can review this together as we go, depending on your needs and goals.
Is everything I say confidential?
Confidentiality is a key part of counselling. What you share will remain private, with a few legal and ethical exceptions - for example, if there is a serious risk of harm. This will be explained clearly at the start so you know where you stand.
How much do counselling sessions cost?
Session fees will be discussed before we begin, so there are no surprises. Payment details and cancellation policies will also be clearly outlined. If you have any concerns about affordability, you’re welcome to ask.
Do you offer support for anxiety and depression?
Yes, I regularly work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, and related mental health concerns. Counselling can help you understand patterns, develop coping strategies, and feel more grounded in day-to-day life.
Can I switch between online and face-to-face sessions?
Where possible, I offer flexibility between online and in-person counselling sessions. This can be helpful if your circumstances change or you want to try a different format.
How do I get started?
You can get in touch using the contact details below to arrange an initial session or ask any questions. Taking that first step can feel daunting, but you’re welcome to reach out at your own pace.
Contact Iris Counselling
About Me | How I Work | Our First Session | Why Iris? | FAQs | Contact
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