The best thing you can hope for in a therapist is that they’re going to be a good match for you but to be truly seen as a person is a different thing entirely. I look forward to every session and even when the topic is difficult I always come away with a sense of accomplishment. Rachel always creates a safe, comfortable atmosphere and offers guidance and solutions that you might not have thought of in a manner that just invites you back the next time to discover more about yourself.
Counsellor Profile
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optionalRachel Mckinstry – Counsellor Therapist
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Do you feel weighed down by anxiety or life’s demands? I’m Rachel, an integrative counsellor. In a calm, supportive space, we’ll work together to ease the overwhelm, understand your struggles, and help you reconnect with yourself with compassion.
Personal Touch
Feeling like you are carrying it all alone? You don't have to
Client Focus
I focus on supporting adults who are experiencing various forms of anxiety. My practice is dedicated to helping those dealing with generalised anxiety, social anxiety, PTSD, and specific phobias. I aim to create a warm and safe environment where clients can explore their feelings and experiences.
In our sessions, we will typically:
I strive to ensure that you feel comfortable and understood throughout our work together.
In our sessions, we will typically:
- Discuss your specific anxiety challenges and how they impact your life
- Explore coping strategies tailored to your needs
- Work on building resilience and confidence
- Develop a deeper understanding of your triggers
- Foster a supportive therapeutic relationship
I strive to ensure that you feel comfortable and understood throughout our work together.
Background
I hold a Foundation Degree in Integrative Counselling, which means I can draw on different counselling approaches and tailor our sessions to suit you. I also have a BA (Hons) in Fine Art, which has deepened my understanding of creativity as a tool for self-expression and emotional wellbeing.
Before becoming a counsellor, I spent many years working in the social care sector within the NHS, particularly in older people’s services. This gave me a real insight into the emotional and practical challenges people face, especially those who are caring for a loved one. I understand the strain that comes with this role reversal, and how it can affect both your mental health and sense of self.
I also use trauma-informed somatic therapy, which integrates gentle body-based awareness to help you recognise and safely process sensations and emotions that may be held in the body. This approach supports the connection between mind and body, encouraging self-regulation, grounding, and restoring a sense of safety. We will work collaboratively, at a pace that feels manageable for you, to support healing and build resilience.
My experience, training, and genuine care for the people I work with all come together to create a safe, respectful space where you can feel understood, supported, and empowered to make positive changes.
Therapy Approach
As an Integrative Counsellor (FdSc), I tailor our work to your individual needs using a blend of person-centred, CBT, psychodynamic, mindfulness, and trauma-informed somatic approaches. This means we explore not just your thoughts and feelings but also how stress and trauma are held in your body, helping you release tension, regulate emotions, and reconnect with yourself. My style is gentle but steady, equipping you with practical tools you can use now and in the future.
I offer face-to-face sessions in Lisburn or online via Microsoft Teams, with flexible appointment times including early mornings, afternoons and evenings. To help you feel comfortable, I also offer a free 15-minute phone call to answer questions and see if we’re a good fit.
You don’t need to have all the answers—just the willingness to begin. If you’re ready to take the first step, you can book a session here or get in touch by email.
Therapies explained
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a treatment focusing on changing negative patterns of thought and behavior to address psychological issues. It is known for its effectiveness in treating a variety of mental health conditions.
Gestalt Therapy
Gestalt Therapy emphasizes personal responsibility and focuses on the individual’s experience in the present moment.
Integrative or Holistic Therapy
Integrative or Holistic Therapy combines practices and theories from various therapeutic approaches to fit the needs of the individual client.
Person-Centered Therapy
Person-Centered Therapy uses a non-authoritative approach that allows clients to take more of a lead in discussions so that, in the process, they will discover their own solutions.
Psychodynamic
Psychodynamic therapy focuses on understanding the psychological roots of emotional suffering through self-reflection and self-examination.
Somatic Experiencing
Somatic Experiencing is a form of alternative therapy aimed at relieving the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental and physical trauma-related health problems by focusing on the client’s perceived body sensations (or somatic experiences).
Testimonials
Client Feedback
I don’t even know where to begin in describing how much Rachel has helped me. From the very first session, she created a safe and supportive space where I felt truly heard and understood. If you are looking for a therapist who genuinely listens, offers thoughtful guidance, and helps you see new perspectives, Rachel is that person. Her skill and ability as a therapist are remarkable.
Rachel Mckinstry
she/herCounsellor Therapist
Contact me:
07720639055