Counselling and Psychotherapy​

Reconnect with your own sense of aliveness and autonomy

I believe my role as a therapist is to help you find your own voice, and to help you reconnect with your own sense of aliveness and autonomy. My approach is centred on the belief that you are your own expert, and that our greatest power often lies in our unspoken truths. Together we create a relational space that is safe and sound enough for you to feel accepted just as you are, helping you to uncover the resources you already have, as well as learning new skills to support you in living a courageous, wholehearted life. 

Cozy room with wooden ceiling beams, a small window overlooking trees, a teal wall cabinet, a colorful striped camping chair with a blanket and pillow, a small side table with a lantern, and decorative items on the wall and furniture.

I qualified as a Counsellor and Psychotherapist in 2009, having completed a post graduate diploma in Person Centred Counselling accredited by the University of Stirling and COSCA (Scotland’s professional body for Counselling & Psychotherapy).

Since then I have worked as a counsellor and psychotherapist in many support settings including community mental health services, birth trauma recovery, social work with children and young people at risk, post natal depression and most recently sexual trauma.

I have undertaken training including systemic family therapy, trauma therapy, surf therapy for trauma support, and trans-inclusive diversity awareness. I continue to be active in my learning and development, ensuring that my work is anti-racist and intersectional.

Seated or walking therapy sessions encouraging self compassion

With nature at the heart of my work, I see clients at my Therapy Hut nestled in the woods just outside Dunbar. Clients meet me for seated sessions, or for walking therapy sessions which take us along beautiful pathways through the trees and along to the coast. I also have some capacity for online sessions. 

I see myself as walking alongside you on your unique therapeutic path, encouraging your growing self awareness and compassion. This can be challenging work as we venture together into as-yet unexplored areas. While it can be painful work at times, it can also be liberating, creative and spontaneous, especially when we nurture the right space, time and conditions to show up just as we are. 

Two hands reaching towards each other in a sunset or golden hour lighting, creating a warm glow.

  • “I was having a very difficult time, particularly due to problems with my own health, and also that of some close family members. The counselling proved a lifeline for me.

    Ruth was so patient and gave me so much space to really understand my own feelings. She helped me to accept that the way I was feeling was valid, and helped me develop the tools I needed to start to process some of those feelings, and move forward with my life. I cannot recommend her counselling highly enough.” - M

  • “I need to let you know about the new chapter I’ve entered recently in life… I think and talk about you and the support you gave me so often. You really helped me navigate a difficult time, and some more recent twists and turns indirectly by reflecting back on our counselling and the writing sessions.” - Client

A young woman - Ruth Coates, Psychotherapist - walking on a sandy beach near a group of tall, leafless trees with dark, cloudy skies overhead.

 FAQs

    • 30 minute initial consultation online / in person: £35

    • 60 minute weekly therapy session online / in person: £70

    • Payment is made in advance of the session by bank transfer.

    • A small number of reduced rates places are available.

    I review my fees annually in line with cost of living.

  • I generally tend to work with people for some months and often longer. This is something we navigate together. Sometimes someone needs just a few sessions to feel the ground under their feet again, and others are seeking a deeper, more sustained encounter.

  • Sessions are 60 mins and weekly, for which we will agree a day and a time to meet. We might change to a fortnightly rhythm towards the end of therapy if this feels appropriate.

  • As a member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy) I am bound by a code of ethics. Confidentiality is fundamental in psychotherapy and core to my practice. There are however legal and ethical exceptions, such as concerns for your safety or others'. We will discuss this at an initial session.