Chris Arnold

Throughout my career, I have supported children, young people, adults, and families across a wide range of settings, giving me experience of working with people from many different backgrounds and with varied emotional needs.

My professional experience includes working as a school counsellor across mainstream schools, pupil referral units, state colleges, a boarding school, and specialist educational settings supporting children with learning differences and diverse needs. I have also worked with specialist organisations providing trauma-focused therapeutic support for children and young people who have experienced sexual trauma and abuse.

These experiences have given me a deep understanding of the impact that difficult life experiences, trauma, anxiety, low self-esteem, bullying, identity struggles, family difficulties, and emotional overwhelm can have on a person’s wellbeing. I have supported individuals through some of the most challenging periods of their lives, helping them to feel understood, develop emotional safety, build resilience, and reconnect with their sense of self-worth.

My work within education and specialist therapeutic settings has also provided me with extensive experience of safeguarding, multi-agency working, and supporting individuals where safety, trust, and wellbeing are central. I understand the importance of creating a therapeutic relationship where people feel respected, listened to, and able to explore their experiences at their own pace.

I have a particular interest and experience in supporting LGBTQ+ clients and those exploring their gender identity. I aim to provide an inclusive, affirming, and accepting space where people can explore identity, relationships, belonging, and self-expression without fear of judgement.

My experience within specialist education settings has also developed my understanding of neurodiversity and the different ways individuals experience and navigate the world. I support neurodivergent clients, including those exploring ADHD, autism, and wider experiences of neurodiversity, recognising that people often need to be understood rather than changed.

My training in systemic approaches has also shaped the way I understand people within the wider context of their relationships, families, communities, and life experiences. I recognise that our struggles rarely exist in isolation, and exploring the connections between our experiences and our environment can be an important part of creating meaningful change.

I also have a particular interest in supporting men’s mental health, recognising that many men can find it difficult to express emotions, seek support, or talk openly about their struggles. I offer a space where men can explore anxiety, stress, confidence, relationships, emotional wellbeing, and life challenges without pressure or judgement.

Alongside my therapeutic work, I have experience as a lecturer on a Level 4 counselling course, supporting trainee counsellors in their professional development. I also hold a Level 3 Certificate in Training and Education, and I enjoy sharing knowledge, encouraging reflective practice, and supporting the growth of others within the counselling profession.

I am open to providing training, workshops, and speaking events for organisations and professional groups on topics including mental health awareness, emotional wellbeing, trauma-informed practice, inclusive counselling approaches, and supporting young people.

Above all, I believe therapy is about creating a genuine human connection. Everyone deserves to be met with compassion, curiosity, and respect. My aim is to provide a safe space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported while exploring their experiences, recognising their strengths, and moving towards positive change.