CPG Therapy and Well-being Support

12/06/2026

Today, my eldest son turns 18.

As a parent, it's one of those milestones that can bring a mixture of emotions. Pride, excitement, happiness, reflection, and if I'm honest, a little uncertainty too.

He's my first child, which means every stage of parenthood has been a first for me as well. There was no manual, no perfect roadmap, just learning as I went, making mistakes, reflecting, adapting, and doing the best I could with the knowledge and experience I had at the time.

As I reflect on him becoming an adult, I'm reminded that growth isn't just something our children experience. As parents, we're growing too.

Over the years, I've watched him develop his own personality, values, strengths, interests, and independence. At the same time, I've had to learn when to guide, when to step back, when to protect, and when to trust.

Turning 18 brings new opportunities, responsibilities, and choices. It's exciting to think about the path ahead of him and the life he will continue to create for himself. While I know he will make mistakes along the way, I also know that mistakes are often where some of our greatest learning takes place.

As a wellbeing practitioner, counsellor, and psychotherapist, I often see how significant life transitions can bring mixed emotions. We can feel joy and sadness, excitement and worry, pride and loss all at the same time. These feelings don't cancel each other out—they simply reflect how meaningful these moments are.

For many parents, milestones like this can prompt reflection on identity, purpose, changing family dynamics, and what the next chapter might look like. Whilst much of the focus is naturally on the young person stepping into adulthood, parents are often navigating their own transition too.

Parenting doesn't stop when a child turns 18—it simply changes. The role evolves, boundaries shift, and we begin to support from a different place. That can feel exciting, but it can also feel challenging.

So, as my son turns 18, I'm choosing to celebrate who he is becoming, whilst also acknowledging the journey that has brought us both here.

To all the parents watching their children grow, change, and take their next steps—your feelings matter too.

And if you're finding a life transition challenging, whether as a parent or in another area of life, know that support is available. Sometimes having space to explore the emotions that come with change can make all the difference.

Happy 18th birthday to my son. I'm incredibly proud of the person you've become, and excited to see where life takes you next. ❤️

11/06/2026

One question I'm often asked is:

"What's the difference between counselling and psychotherapy?"

The truth is that there is a lot of overlap between the two, and both provide a safe, confidential space to explore thoughts, feelings, experiences, and challenges.

However, there are some general differences.

💭 Counselling often focuses on a specific issue, life event, or current challenge. This might include stress, bereavement, relationship difficulties, work-related concerns, anxiety, or navigating a life transition. The focus is often on understanding what's happening in the present and finding ways to move forward.

💭 Psychotherapy tends to explore things at a deeper level, looking at longstanding patterns, past experiences, unconscious processes, and how these may be influencing thoughts, feelings, behaviours, and relationships today. It often involves a deeper exploration of the self and can lead to long-term personal growth and change.

That said, the line between counselling and psychotherapy isn't always clear-cut.

Many counsellors work therapeutically, and many psychotherapists will support clients with present-day challenges. The most important factor is often not the title, but finding a therapist and approach that feels right for you.

Whether you're looking for support with a current difficulty, seeking greater self-awareness, or wanting to understand yourself more deeply, both counselling and psychotherapy can offer valuable opportunities for growth, healing, and reflection.

As someone who has recently qualified as a Level 5 Counsellor in Psychotherapy, I value both approaches and the unique benefits they can offer. Every client is different, and therapy should be flexible enough to meet people where they are.

Have you ever wondered about the difference between counselling and psychotherapy, or found the distinction confusing?

09/06/2026

A small update, but one that means a great deal to me...

Having recently qualified as a Level 5 Counsellor in Psychotherapy, I can now officially say that my membership status has been updated to Accredited. (again from student) 😊

While the change of title might seem like a small administrative update, it represents years of learning, personal development, training, supervision, reflection, and commitment to providing safe and ethical support to clients.

Counselling training is about so much more than gaining knowledge. It involves continually developing self-awareness, deepening understanding, challenging assumptions, and recognising the privilege and responsibility that comes with supporting people through some of life's most difficult moments.

I'm incredibly grateful to everyone who has been part of this journey—tutors, supervisors, peers, clients, friends, and family. Each has played a role in helping me grow both professionally and personally.

Although it's lovely to reach this milestone, I know that counselling is a profession built on lifelong learning. Accreditation isn't the end of the journey; it's another step forward in continuing to develop, learn, and provide the best possible support to those I work with.

Thank you to everyone who has supported and encouraged me along the way.

Here's to the next chapter. 💙

08/06/2026

One of the biggest misconceptions about counselling is that it's only for when you're struggling or in crisis.

While counselling can absolutely provide support during difficult times, it can also be a valuable space for self-reflection, personal growth, building self-awareness, navigating life transitions, improving relationships, or simply taking time to understand yourself better.

Another common myth is that counselling has to follow a rigid structure, with weekly sessions for a set period of time.

In reality, therapy should be as individual as the person accessing it.

For some people, weekly sessions feel right. For others, fortnightly or monthly sessions provide the space they need to reflect and process between appointments. Some may seek short-term support around a specific issue, while others may benefit from longer-term therapeutic work.

There is no "one-size-fits-all" approach.

Good counselling recognises that each person has unique needs, circumstances, responsibilities, and goals. Therapy should be flexible enough to work alongside your life, not become another source of pressure.

As a counsellor, I believe the therapeutic relationship is about working collaboratively to find an approach that feels supportive, sustainable, and meaningful for you.

Whether you're facing a challenge, exploring personal development, or simply looking for a space to pause and reflect, counselling doesn't have to look a certain way to be valuable.

What do you think is the biggest misconception people have about counselling and therapy?

21/05/2026

With the school holidays creeping up, I’ve had so many conversations lately about the financial pressure families are feeling. The cost of days out, activities, food, and just trying to “make memories” can feel overwhelming.

And it reminded me of one of the BEST things I ever did with my children…

✨ A YES DAY ✨

A few years ago, inspired by the book/movie, I decided that for one whole day, my two youngest children would hear one magical word from me:

“YES!”
(Within reason… I wasn’t buying a pony or letting them redecorate the house in ketchup 😂)

What followed was absolute chaos… but also one of the most therapeutic and joy-filled days we’ve ever had as a family.

The day started with a water-bucket challenge in the garden, followed by pancake-making in pyjamas. Then came the real danger…

THEY chose my outfit. 😳

Honestly, I looked like a walking lost property box. There were costume changes throughout the day involving several questionable hats, dramatic makeup, and hair styling that can only be described as “electrocuted unicorn.” To top it all off, they gave me a horn that I HAD to blow every single time someone said “Yes Day” or agreed to something.

Imagine walking around Shipley Country Park dressed like that… HONKING a horn every five minutes while innocent dog walkers looked deeply concerned for my wellbeing. 😂

The children chose the music in the car (which meant my ears survived approximately 47 repeats of the same song), we had dinner at McDonald’s, where I had to blow the horn, and fries were flying everywhere, visited a local pub with a bouncy castle, and then ended the evening with games, face painting, and a family movie night.

And honestly?
It was one of the most freeing parenting days I’ve ever experienced.

For one day, I stopped focusing on the routines, the jobs list, the rushing around, the constant “not now,” “be careful,” and “maybe later.”

Instead, I was fully present.

The children felt heard, empowered, and connected. There was laughter all day long, no pressure for perfection, and so many moments of genuine joy. It supported their wellbeing… but if I’m honest, it massively supported mine too.

It reminded me that children don’t always need expensive days out or packed schedules. Sometimes what they really remember is when we let go a little and simply join their world.

So if money feels tight this May half term, please know that meaningful memories don’t have to cost a fortune.

Maybe try your own version of a Yes Day.
Say yes a little more.
Be silly.
Wear the ridiculous hat.
Blow the horn. 😂

You might be surprised at how therapeutic it feels for everyone involved. ❤️

18/05/2026

12/05/2026

What people think a hypnotherapist does… vs what actually happens 👇

It’s not about “putting someone under.”
It’s about:
• Listening without judgement
• Creating a safe, calm space
• Supporting real, lasting change

There’s more to hypnotherapy than people often realise.

11/05/2026

🌟 This morning was a special moment for me. As I drove my youngest to school, we passed my therapy room, and he excitedly shouted, “Mum, that’s CPG!” I turned to see the sign I had ordered, proudly displayed outside. A wave of emotion hit me—happy tears filled my eyes.

This sign symbolises not just a business but a lifelong goal: to support individuals and businesses in their journey towards wellbeing. It’s a public declaration that I’m here for you, ready to offer guidance and encouragement.

Seeing my child's reaction made this moment even more meaningful. It serves as a reminder that pursuing our dreams not only inspires ourselves but also those around us. I want my children to know that with hard work and the right support, they can achieve anything.

To everyone reading this, remember that your goals are important. Whether you're seeking personal growth or professional development, I'm here to support you on your journey. Let's follow our dreams together! 💪✨

07/05/2026

Here are my favorite footwear – show me yours! 👟✨

These aren’t just shoes; they are my trusty companions on countless adventures! From hiking up trails with friends to leisurely walks that spark laughter and connection, each step in these shoes comes with a cherished memory. They’ve helped me tackle challenges, whether it was summiting that mountain or navigating through life’s ups and downs.

Comfort is key, and let me tell you, these beauties feel like clouds for my feet! They give me a sense of pride and allow me to process my thoughts while I recharge and set new goals. You might say, “They’re just shoes, Sarah.” True, but they’ve been my heroes, supporting my physical health, mental health, emotional well-being and social life.

Self-care doesn’t always have to look like bubble baths and spa days. Sometimes, it’s about lacing up your favorite footwear and embracing the great outdoors… or simply taking a moment to breathe deeply and reflect. Today, I’ve declared it a "me day," and these shoes are right there, supporting me on my journey to well-being.

Let’s remember that our well-being can take many forms, and it’s often the little things that make the biggest impact.

What’s your favorite footwear, and how do they contribute to your journey? I’d love to hear your stories! 🥾❤️