About Sally Wright – Counsellor in Edinburgh & Online
My Path to Becoming a Counsellor
I’m Sally Wright (PGDip), a qualified counsellor based in Edinburgh. My path into counselling began in the NHS ambulance service, where I trained and worked as a paramedic. In that role, I often met people in intense moments of crisis. I learnt how to be calm, compassionate and present in the face of distress. Over time, I became more drawn to the emotional side of what people were going through. I felt drawn to offer support in a deeper, ongoing way.
That led me into the social care sector, where I worked for over 20 years. My experience spans a range of services. These include, people with disabilities, people from LGBTQ+ communities, those living with HIV or hepatitis C and people who use substances. I progressed from support work to senior support roles, taking on key responsibilities in managing front-line services. I also worked as a volunteer coordinator—recruiting, training, and supporting volunteers across a range of services.
This work gave me a strong foundation in meeting people where they are, with respect and humility.
A Relational, Professional Counselling Approach
I began my counselling training over ten years ago. Since then, I have developed a strong relational way of working. My approach is grounded in empathy, collaboration and emotional attunement. I am now an experienced practitioner with over 1500 hours of counselling experience. I support both individuals and couples with challenges such as:
Student wellbeing and life transitions
Trauma and abuse
Anxiety and depression
Relationship difficulties
Identity and self-worth
I am experienced with working with people who are autistic or have ADHD. I recognise the richness of different ways of thinking, coupled with the challenges of navigating a world that often isn’t understanding or accommodating.
I create a warm, respectful space where people can feel safe enough to explore what really matters. I work at your pace and tailor therapy to your unique experience. Whether you’re navigating long-standing patterns, recent life events, or a sense that something just isn’t quite right.
Working with Couples
I am a trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), a powerful, evidence-based approach that helps couples deepen emotional connection. Together we work towards responding to each other with more openness and understanding. I support couples who want to rebuild trust, improve communication, or feel closer again after periods of distance or conflict.
EFT is also highly effective with individuals. I integrate this approach across my work with clients, working towards feeling more secure in relationships—with themselves and with others.
Supervision and Professional Development
I am a qualified counselling supervisor and I offer thoughtful, collaborative supervision to other practitioners. I’m passionate about reflective practice and about supporting the growth and wellbeing of fellow counsellors. More information on this page.
Memberships
As a registered member of COSCA (Scotland’s professional body for counselling and psychotherapy). I work in line with their ethical framework. This includes ongoing supervision, continuing professional development and a commitment to practicing with care and integrity.
I am also a member of International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy (ICEEFT). Emotionally Focused Therapy is grounded in attachment science, which highlights our human need for connection and security.
Values & Influences
I work in a non-pathologising, trauma-informed way. My values are aligned with the A Disorder For Everyone (AD4E) movement, which asks not “What’s wrong with you?” but “What happened to you?” I believe that emotional distress is a natural response to adversity. Therapy can be a space to reclaim your story, reconnect with your strengths and feel more fully yourself.
I also hold an awareness of the wider systems that shape our lives. Experiences of marginalisation, inequality, the climate crisis, political instability, racism and misogyny Have shaped us. They don’t stay outside the therapy room—they affect how we feel, relate and how we make sense of the world. I aim to hold space for the personal and the political, recognising that healing often involves both.
Therapy with me is a space where all parts of you are welcome. Where you can come just as you are and be met with compassion and clarity.
Still have questions? You can find more information on my FAQs page or get in touch to book a free introductory call.
