About Sally Wright – Counsellor in Edinburgh & Online
My Path to Becoming a Counsellor
I’m Sally Wright (PGDip), a qualified counsellor based in Edinburgh offering individual and couples counselling in person and online across the UK.
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 moments of intense crisis, and learned how to stay calm, compassionate and present in the midst of distress. Over time, I became increasingly drawn to the emotional and relational side of people’s experiences, and to offering support that extends beyond immediate crisis care.
This led me into the social care sector, where I worked for over 20 years in a range of roles supporting individuals with diverse and complex needs. My experience includes working with people with disabilities, people from LGBTQ+ communities, those living with HIV or hepatitis C, and people who use substances.
During this time, I progressed from frontline support work into senior roles, with responsibility for managing services and supporting teams. I also worked as a volunteer coordinator, recruiting, training and supporting volunteers across a variety of services.
Across all of this work, I developed a strong foundation in meeting people with respect, patience and humility, and in recognising the importance of seeing each person in the context of their wider life and experiences.
This experience informs my work as a counsellor in Edinburgh, particularly with people navigating complex life experiences, health-related stress, and emotional overwhelm.
If you would like to find out more about counselling in Edinburgh, or explore whether we might work well together, you can find out more about my individual counselling or couples counselling work.
A Relational, Professional Counselling Approach
I began my counselling training over ten years ago and have since developed a relational and collaborative way of working. My approach is grounded in empathy, emotional attunement and a respect for each person’s individual experience.
I am an experienced practitioner with over 2,000 hours of counselling practice, supporting both individuals and couples with a wide range of difficulties, including:
- anxiety and depression
- trauma and experiences of abuse
- relationship difficulties
- identity and self-worth
- life transitions and student wellbeing
I also have experience working with autistic and ADHD clients. I recognise both the strengths and differences in neurodivergent ways of experiencing the world, as well as the challenges that can arise when navigating environments that are not always understanding or accommodating.
I aim to offer a steady, respectful and relational space where you can explore what feels most important to you. Therapy is tailored to your individual experience, and we will work at a pace that feels manageable and supportive for you.
This may include exploring long-standing patterns, recent life events, or a general sense that something in your life or relationships feels out of balance or difficult to shift.
You can read more about my individual counselling in Edinburgh or couples counselling in Edinburgh, or get in touch to arrange an initial conversation.
Who I Work With
I support:
- individuals experiencing anxiety, trauma, low mood or life transitions
- people navigating identity, neurodivergence or self-worth issues
- couples experiencing communication difficulties or relationship distress
Working with Couples
I am a trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), an 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 my supervision 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.
