"Compassionate Counselling, Empowering You"
Welcome to VCH Counselling
Compassionate Counselling, Empowering You
Welcome to VCH Counselling, a compassionate space where healing begins and your journey is truly held. I’m Victoria Heeley, a Humanistic Integrative therapeutic counsellor and an Accredited member of my professional body (The BACP). My practice offers a safe, respectful and nurturing environment to support your emotional wellbeing and personal growth.
With over 1,500 hours of clinical experience, I specialise in trauma therapy, including sexual trauma, alongside work with grief and loss and life-limiting illnesses including, cancer. Alongside this specialist work, I also support individuals with a wide range of more general counselling needs, including emotional distress, life transitions, relationship difficulties, anxiety, low mood, and issues affecting self-esteem. My pronouns are she/her.
At VCH Counselling, I will walk alongside you at your pace, supporting you through difficult experiences, uncertainty and change, and helping you develop the insight and tools needed for meaningful healing, resilience and acceptance.
I offer both short- and long-term therapy for adult individuals, delivered face-to-face and online.
If you have any questions or would like to arrange an initial assessment appointment, please feel free to get in touch using the contact details below.
About Me
My journey into counselling began from a deeply personal place. As a survivor of historic childhood abuse, I understand first-hand the profound impact that trauma can have on one's life. I then experienced what it was like to live with a loved one fighting cancer and ultimately losing the fight. It was my own journey of healing and self-discovery that ignited my passion for helping others navigate their own paths to wellness.
I believe that our most challenging experiences can also become our greatest teachers. Through my own healing journey, I discovered the transformative power of therapy and the importance of having a compassionate and understanding guide by your side. It's this belief in the healing potential within each of us that drives my work as a counsellor today.
Since November 2024, I have been working part-time as a Counsellor within the Counselling and Psychology Service at Forest Holme Hospice.
In this role, I support individuals, couples, and families affected by cancer or life-limiting illnesses, providing psychological and emotional support, including bereavement counselling.
As a dedicated and accredited Humanistic Integrative therapeutic counsellor, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise to my practice. I am proud to hold accreditation from the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), ensuring that I adhere to the highest standards of professionalism and ethical practice. Additionally, I have completed over 1500 hours of client work and hold certifications including:
- Certified Clinical Trauma Professional achieved in 2024
- BACP Accreditation achieved in 2023
- Level 4 CPCAB Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling (2017-2018)
- BACP Certificate of Proficiency (2018)
- Level 3 CPCAB Certificate in Counselling Studies (2017)
- Level 2 CPCAB Certificate in Counselling Skills (2017)
- BSc (Hons) Psychology
My location
I offer counselling services from rented rooms in the A-Storage premises, 203–205 Charminster Road, Bournemouth BH8 9QQ. There is a small carpark outside (free) and also plenty of free on-street parking nearby. The rooms are also on the main M1 bus route. Please note however that the rooms are located up a flight of stairs and there is no lift. Alternatively I can also provide sessions at The Consulting Centre in Branksome, Poole (opposite Tesco) or online via Zoom from my private home office. When scheduling sessions, I'll provide you with more details about the location.
Working online can be incredibly convenient, saving you time and offering flexibility. However, it's essential to have a private space and a suitable device for video-conferencing.
I understand the importance of accessibility and accommodations for clients with specific needs. Ground floor rooms are available for rental if needed, ensuring that everyone can access the support they deserve. At VCH Counselling, I am committed to creating an inclusive environment where all individuals feel welcome and supported on their journey to healing.
Fees & availability
Counselling sessions typically last 50 minutes and are scheduled on a weekly basis, priced at £60 per session.
I understand that access to counselling should be available to everyone, regardless of financial circumstances. Therefore, I offer a limited number of spaces at reduced rates for individuals on low-income, trainee counsellors, or students. Please feel free to contact me to enquire about availability.
Initial assessment appointments, which last approximately 30 minutes, are complimentary for online or telephone sessions. If you prefer an in-person assessment, the fee is £30.
Please be aware that a minimum of 48 hours' notice is required for cancellations of face-to-face appointments (24 hours for online appointments). Failure to provide sufficient notice will result in the full session fee being charged. Payments can be made securely via bank transfer, and advance payment is required to secure your appointment slot.
Get in touch
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions about how counselling works or to arrange an initial assessment appointment. This allows us to explore the reasons you're considering counselling, assess its potential benefits for you, and determine if I'm the right therapist to work with you.
All enquiries are typically responded to within 24 hours, Monday to Friday. Rest assured, all contact is strictly confidential. You can learn more about how your privacy is protected by reading my Privacy Policy.
Alternatively, you can contact me or leave a message on 07523650144.
Compassionate Counselling, Empowering You.
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
At VCH Counselling, I believe in the importance of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) in my practice. I am committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where every individual, regardless of their background or identity, feels valued and respected.
My Approach to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion:
I recognise that each person's experiences and perspectives are unique, and I strive to honour and celebrate this diversity in my counselling approach. I actively work to address systemic barriers and promote equality of opportunity for all clients.
My Commitment to Anti-Discrimination:
I am dedicated to providing counselling services free from discrimination, prejudice, and bias. I actively challenge discrimination based on race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, or any other characteristic.
Creating an Inclusive Environment:
I continually seek to improve my practice by fostering open dialogue, listening to diverse voices, and incorporating feedback from my clients. I welcome individuals from all walks of life and am committed to supporting them on their journey to healing and well-being.
If you have any questions or suggestions regarding my approach to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, please don't hesitate to reach out. I'm here to listen and learn as I strive to create a more inclusive and equitable world, one counselling session at a time.
My Mission is to
Empower individuals through compassionate, client-centred counselling in a safe, respectful environment
VCH Counselling Values
Client-Centred Care: Your needs come first, always. I tailor every aspect of my service to your unique journey, goals, and comfort.
Authenticity and Transparency: I believe in openness and honesty. You'll always know where you stand with me, and I'll always be real with you.
Empowerment and Growth: Together, we'll unlock your potential. I'm here to support you as you discover new strengths and take meaningful steps towards personal growth.
These values form the heart of my counselling practice, ensuring that your experience is genuine, supportive, and focused on your individual needs and aspirations.