Michelle

Mrs Michelle Spendlove

Professional Counselor

“Hi, I'm Michelle - a BACP-registered and NCPS-accredited Psychotherapist/Counsellor. I offer private one-to-one therapy for adults, in the semi-rural, historic area of Liversedge, West Yorkshire, with the flexibility of in-person or remote support via video link - whichever suits you best. I provide a pressure-free space where you’re supported and accepted exactly as you are. Clients often say my down-to-earth demeanor and open-mindedness help them feel comfortable and understood. I attribute this to my years of psychotherapeutic training and my unusual life experiences, which have helped me be completely non-judgemental in my work. ”

About Me

My approach is professional, yet warm and modern – without the intimidating, clinical feel that many expect from therapy. And yes, I even have a sense of humour (when the moment calls for it, of course)! Receiving therapy for my past traumas inspired me to change careers over a decade ago. Counselling helped me examine my life, giving me the courage and tools to become 'unstuck' and envision a fulfilling future. Now, I'm dedicated to supporting others in doing the same.

Approach

As an Integrative therapist, I blend different approaches from various talking therapies and tailor my style to suit each individual. My core training is in Person-Centered Therapy, but I often incorporate other models, such as Psychoanalytical, CBT, REBT, and Solution-Focused Therapy (particularly for anxiety management and day-to-day stress). My goal is to help you develop the self-awareness necessary to make lasting, positive changes. Most importantly, I view you as a person, not a 'patient'. Together, we can explore your thoughts and feelings to find the root cause of your issues and start the healing process. Starting therapy can feel daunting, so I ensure my sessions have a non-clinical and relaxing feel. Each session moves at your pace, and you won't be pushed to discuss anything before you're ready. You'll never be judged on what you share.
Contact Michelle

Ask a quick question or arrange a time to meet.

Basic Information

In-person & Online

Services

I specialise in working with Neurodivergence - both diagnosed and self-diagnosed (in particular Autism, ADHD, and AuDHD, although I also have an understanding of Dyspraxia, Dyslexia, and Dyscalculia). I work with a wide range of issues, most commonly anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, workplace stress, relationships, bereavement/grief, Past trauma, and family concerns. I welcome male and female clients over the age of eighteen, of any race, faith, or sexual orientation. I am sex-worker allied and supportive of alternative lifestyles. My policy is that something is only a problem if it's a problem for YOU. As a former Professional member of the Institute of Psychedelic Therapy, I am recreational and psychoactive substances (also chemsex) aware, and offer a safe, non-judgemental space for clients to explore their personal experiences, both negative and positive (though I do not specialise in addiction counselling or Psychedelic assisted/integration therapy). If any issues on my profile resonate with you, I offer a completely confidential service. I'm here to share the burden with you, to really listen, and to support you when you feel stuck. Over the years, I have collected many testimonials from clients who have completed a course of therapy. These can be viewed on my website, www.HigherGroundCounselling.co.uk Thanks, Michelle

Services Offered:

  • Counseling

    A form of talk therapy providing a safe, confidential space to explore feelings, thoughts, and behaviours with a trained professional.

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  • Psychotherapy

    In-depth therapeutic work that explores patterns in thoughts, emotions, and relationships to produce lasting psychological change.

    Learn more about Psychotherapy
  • Psychodynamic Therapy

    A therapy that explores how past experiences and unconscious patterns shape current feelings, relationships, and behaviour.

    Learn more about Psychodynamic Therapy
  • CBT

    Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, a structured, evidence-based approach that identifies and changes unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviours.

    Learn more about CBT
  • Individual Therapy

    One-on-one therapy sessions between a client and a therapist, focused on that person's specific concerns and goals.

    Learn more about Individual Therapy
  • Integrative Psychotherapy

    An approach that draws on multiple therapeutic models, tailored to the individual, rather than following a single method.

Works With:

  • Adults
  • Elderly
  • Individuals

Area of Expertise

Scope of Practice:

  • Anxiety

    Persistent worry, nervousness, or fear that is disproportionate to the situation and interferes with daily functioning.

    Learn more about Anxiety
  • Autism (ASD)

    A neurodevelopmental condition affecting social communication, sensory processing, and behaviour patterns, with a wide range of presentations and strengths.

  • Life Transitions

    Major life changes, such as relocation, retirement, parenthood, or career shifts, that disrupt routine and require psychological adjustment.

    Learn more about Life Transitions
  • Relationship Issues

    Difficulties in romantic relationships, including communication problems, trust breakdowns, conflict patterns, or uncertainty about the relationship's future.

    Learn more about Relationship Issues
  • Self-Esteem

    A person's overall sense of their own worth and value. When chronically low, it can drive self-doubt, avoidance, and difficulty in relationships.

    Learn more about Self-Esteem
  • Stress / Burnout

    The body and mind's response to prolonged or excessive demands. When sustained, it can lead to emotional exhaustion, detachment, and reduced functioning (burnout).

    Learn more about Stress / Burnout
  • Trauma

    The lasting psychological impact of deeply distressing events, such as violence, abuse, accidents, or disasters, that overwhelm a person's ability to cope.

    Learn more about Trauma
  • Women's Issues

    Psychological challenges more commonly experienced by women, including gender-based stress, reproductive health concerns, body image, caregiving burden, and societal expectations.

Professional Title:

  • Professional Counselor

    A counselor qualified to provide professional mental health counselling services.

Credentials

Registrations

Higher Ground Counseling

Counsellor

Qualifications

Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling

Kirklees College

Year: 2014

Memberships

National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS)

Graduate Member

British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)

Graduate Member

Membership: 373241

Service Areas

Higher Ground Counselling

In-person & Online

Roberttown

Liversedge, West Yorkshire

United Kingdom

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Roberttown, Liversedge, United Kingdom