About

Counselling in the Community

Making counselling accessible to all

You are not alone. Whether you are struggling with your mental health or dealing with a difficult life event such as bereavement or separation, our counsellors at Counselling in the Community are here to listen. You will feel supported from the moment you enter our service, openly sharing your thoughts and emotions, with the aim of finding your own solutions.

However, we can only do this with your help.

We do have to ask for a small donation to pay towards the running costs and expenses of running a busy Charity. If you are in work we would ask for a minimum donation of £10 and if not £5. I ‘m sure you realise this is a small amount to pay to get the help you need when you need it. If you are having financial difficulties please still get in touch, we have never turned anyone in need away. ‘

Charity Number: 1195816

Stuart Hutton-Brown | CEO/Founder

CitC was founded in 2017. It became very apparent through some research that demand was greater than supply as mainstream services were at breaking point. 5 years later, never would i have envisaged just how busy the service would become. It is a privilege to see so many people access our charity when they need it most. I feel so lucky to absolutely love what I get to do on a daily basis.

What's next for CitC ? Well it's a cliche but we haven't come this far to only go this far, so who knows! We do have plans and are constantly looking at ways to offer our service in other ways and collaboratively work with others. So watch this space!

Chris Webb | Chair

Born in Blackpool I attended Layton Primary and St Mary’s High School and 6th Form.
I have worked across the town in hospitality and public sector, most recently as the youngest Deputy Police & Crime Commissioner in the country during 2018-2021.
I have a passion for improving mental health access for all and worked on campaigns across the North West for many years. I have been Chair of Trustees for Counselling In The Community since 2019.
Known for my charity work and was awarded a Local Community Hero Award for my charity work across Blackpool during the pandemic.

Nichola Thorp | Trustee

I’m proud to be a trustee of CITC, as someone who has struggled with her mental health both as a teenager and in adulthood, I know how vital counselling can be for people in crisis and for those who want to make positive changes to their lives. I was born and bred in Blackpool and know all too well how important the work of CITC is for the local community.

Alex Demetriou | Trustee

I joined CITC as a trustee because I truly believe they are one of the best charities in the Fylde. I actually found out about CITC when I was looking for a Councillor to help with my own mental health. Stuart helped me find myself again and I believe this is something everyone deserves to have even if they can't afford it. Most people think counselling is for the rich but what we do at CITC, makes it available for anyone. I am honoured to be a trustee and knowing that the decision we make can help so many others, makes me increasingly proud and happy.

Hazel Tyldesley | Operations Manager

I joined CitC 3 years ago volunteering to help Stuart with the administration. In those 3 years I have nearly finished my training to become a counsellor so I can help so many more people at this much needed charity.
I love my work, no 2 days are the same dealing with enquiries, assessments and anything operational within our service hubs. I can't wait to see the future for this amazing service as we strive to make counselling accessible for all.

Kim McAllister | Person-Centred psychotherapist

My name is Kim McAllister and I am a Person-Centred psychotherapist and Play Therapist. . I am very passionate about mental health, especially in children and young people.

I am the primary Childrens’ and young person therapist at Counselling in the Community and offer my full expertise to each client. I find play therapy is an excellent tool for working with CYP’s and anxious adults. I work with anyone from age 4+ and personally tailor therapy for each client. Counselling in the Community provides an opportunity for those on low incomes to access first class therapy in a safe and friendly environment.

Hannah Anderton Smith | Training and Recruitment manager

I came into counselling just before my 40th birthday. I had been made redundant and knew exactly what I wanted to do. I wanted use my experience as a people manager for over 10 years within the Civil Service, to try to help make difference. I began as many trainees do on a Level 2 introductory course and completed my Level 4 to qualify as a counsellor in 2020. It’s been an amazing journey and I have learnt a lot about myself and my practice. Working here at Counselling in the Community allows me to continue to grow as a counsellor helping those in our local community but also working with those studying to become a counsellor. As the training and recruitment manager it is my responsibility to support those who are beginning their placement journey from induction to qualification.

Caroline O’Rourke | Fundraising Manager

Hi,I have been volunteering at Counselling in the Community as Head of Fundraising with since November 2021.
We hold many events from Salsa Dancing,Fetes and Awareness stalls within Community Events.
Proud Mummy to my eldest now 18 and youngest who is 4. I work within Project Management and In my spare time I love spending time with family and friends and run a local netball team in Wrea Green.
Following my past experiences within the mental health services through my eldest daughters mental health journey, I really wanted to provide support to those vulnerable and in need within our local community.
When I met Stuart I realised how much we had in common in our shared passion to help others and I immediately wanted to support him to meet his goals of making counselling accessible to all across Blackpool and the Fylde and Wyre.
If you would like to get involved we would love to hear from you.

Caroline

Bailey and Cooper | Our therapy dogs

Woof !

Book your consultation today

Alternatively, you can contact us directly on the form below.

Frequently asked questions

Here are answers to our some commonly asked questions about our counselling services. If you need more information then please contact us on 0808 1963 483

This is a short 30 minute session where we assess your needs and gather some general information, like contact details and your availability. It's where we get to know you and you can see what you think of us too.

We ask for donations to cover our running costs, no salaries are paid from this. I'm sure you'll all agree the cost of everything has increased at an alarming rate and as a community service we like to offer all our clients tea or coffee during their session. You kind donations contribute towards this, Thank you.

In your first session you will meet your counsellor. You will both go through the Counsellor and Client Agreement. This is where we explain our ways of working, which includes attendance, contact,confidentiality and ethics. After this you will be invited to share whatever it is that has brought you to CITC and of course you will be offered tea or coffee.

Phone Number
08081 963483

Locations
Counselling in the Community, 15 Waterloo Road, Blackpool, FY4 1AD

Counselling in the Community, Fleetwood Hospital, Pharos Street, FY7 6BE

Working time

Monday - Friday:
9.30 am - 7.30 pm
Saturday
10 am - 4 pm
Sunday
Closed