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Our Therapists
Heal. Grow. Thrive.
Welcome to The Edinburgh Counselling Service. We are a small group of warm, compassionate and empathic counsellors, each working independently but united by a shared commitment to a compassionate, collaborative approach to therapy as well as evidence based practices and ongoing professional development. We provide counselling to individuals, couples, and young people, welcoming clients of all backgrounds. Our counsellors are fully qualified, insured, and adhere to the ethical standards of their respective professional bodies. We help individuals feel empowered, live authentically, thrive in relationships with themselves and others, experience healing and change, and uncover purpose in their lives. To find out more about each of our therapists, please feel welcome to take a look at our profiles below.
Hannah Walker
Founder of The Edinburgh Counselling Service
Counsellor and Psychotherapist
Hi I’m Hannah, a qualified counsellor and psychotherapist. I’m the founder of The Edinburgh Counselling Service where I provide counselling to individuals, couples and young people. I am particularly experienced in supporting individuals with anxiety, low self-esteem, stress, trauma, relationships, perfectionism, burnout and imposter syndrome.
I aim to help individuals feel empowered, live authentically, thrive in relationships with themselves and others, experience healing and change, and uncover purpose in their lives. Whether you would like support working through something specific, or would simply like a space that’s just for you, I provide a place for you to explore what is important to you.
My approach to counselling is grounded in openness, trust, honesty, compassion (and even a little humour!). The counselling journey can bring the confidence, personal growth and self-awareness required to reach your full potential and live fully. Please take a look here to find out more about how I work.
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*While I’m currently not accepting new clients, I’d be glad to support you in finding a colleague who may be a good fit for your needs. Please don’t hesitate to reach out.*
Odett Toth
Integrative Counsellor
Hi there, I'm Odett and I'm an integrative counsellor dedicated to fostering therapeutic change through person-centred and psychodynamic approaches. At the heart of my practice lies a commitment to meeting you where you are on your journey and tailoring our sessions to suit your unique needs and preferences.
I understand the importance of finding a therapist who resonates with you, and I strive to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all my clients. Whether you're seeking guidance through challenging times or looking to explore deeper aspects of yourself, I am here to walk alongside you on your path to healing and self-discovery.
With a background in working with a diverse range of clients, I specialise in addressing relationship issues, anxiety and depression, self-esteem concerns and trauma. I also have a special interest in working with survivors of domestic abuse. My goal is to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences at your own pace. Together, we'll aim to create a space for genuine connection, where you can feel truly seen and heard and can feel free to be your authentic and confident self. During this journey of self-discovery and growth, we will aim to navigating the complexities of life with courage and compassion.
As a registered member of the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS), I adhere to their professional standards, ensuring a safe and ethical therapeutic environment. I offer sessions in both English and Hungarian, providing a comfortable space for clients who prefer therapy in their native language. I believe in the power of creativity and play in therapy, and for those who are interested, I integrate creative tools into our sessions to facilitate exploration and expression.
I offer weekly or fortnightly sessions on Thursday and Friday afternoons and evenings.
Nicole Mackintosh
Integrative Counsellor
Hi, I’m Nicole and I am a qualified integrative therapist registered with the BACP. I draw on both psychodynamic and person-centred approaches within my practice. Within sessions, I encourage my clients to find their own way in their therapeutic journey. Some clients may respond better to having more directive and structured sessions, whereas other clients may like to focus on one session at a time, working with whatever they feel is most important on that day. Whichever way a client wants to work, I strive to create the warm and open environment they need to do this.
My approach to therapy centres on fostering a strong and positive therapeutic relationship and I believe this relationship can encourage growth and change. I meet my clients from a place of non-judgement and curiosity. I offer warmth, compassion and an understanding that therapy can sometimes feel a little daunting. Alongside this, I believe there is a place for joy and laughter within the counselling room.
The main bulk of my experience is within working with trauma, specifically with adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse. I also have experience of working with relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and domestic and emotional abuse. I strongly believe in the benefits of working creatively in a therapeutic environment, and have experience incorporating art into sessions for clients as a way for them to express themselves and tell their stories.
My experience also extends to working with children in an education setting, working in a way which puts art, creativity and play at the heart of the therapeutic process. I offer a safe place for children and young people to experience therapy to ensure they can work in a way they understand and so that they leave having had a positive experience of therapy.
I welcome clients from all ages, backgrounds and experiences.
I offer weekly or fortnightly sessions on Thursday and Friday mornings and afternoons.
Jennifer Dunn
Integrative Counsellor
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Hello, I’m Jennifer and I am an integrative counsellor for adults. I draw on both person-centred and psychodynamic approaches in my practice. I would describe my way of working as relational, meaning that the quality of our relationship is what is most important to me, and that I believe this relationship has the potential to promote growth and change. I focus on what is happening between us in the session, in the here-and-now. I am interested in our early relationships and how they have an impact on our current self-concept and how they may play out today. I also have an interest in existential psychotherapy; I am curious about how we make meaning of our experiences and how they shape our own worldview. I offer a space where we can unpack whatever you bring with curiosity and compassion.
I have particular experience of working with new parents and also have an experience of working with trauma, grief, neurodiversity, relationship difficulties, childhood neglect and life transitions. I have previous experience of working in both adult education and the prison service, and therefore welcome anyone of any background and experience. I offer a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space where you will find warmth, unconditional acceptance and positive regard, and maybe even a little humour sometimes!
I am currently working towards a doctorate in psychotherapy and counselling and I am a member of the BACP. I am also fluent in French and am comfortable offering sessions in French.
I offer weekly or fortnightly sessions at the same time on Monday afternoon/evenings, Tuesday afternoon/evenings and Wednesday afternoon/evenings.
Kazandra Pangilinan
Integrative Counsellor
Hello! I’m Kazandra, a counsellor trained in both the person-centred and psychodynamic approaches, which means I work in a way that honours your unique experiences in the here-and-now while also exploring how past relationships and events may be influencing your present. This integrated approach allows us to deepen self-awareness, process underlying emotions, and create space for meaningful change.
I believe that each person has the endless capacity to grow, shape their narrative, and forge their own path forward. As a person who has sat on both sides of the therapy couch, I deeply appreciate the warm, non-judgemental, and safe space counselling can provide – and I’m committed to offering this same space to others.
I also work with children and young people to help them understand and express their feelings, develop emotional resilience, strengthen self-esteem, and navigate challenges such as school pressures, friendships, family changes, anxiety, and loss. Through creative and age-appropriate methods, I provide a safe space where they can explore their inner world, build coping strategies, and feel truly heard and supported.
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My counselling room is a place for discovery, exploration, and empowerment for people of all backgrounds, ages, cultures, genders, and sexualities. You are so welcome here.
I offer sessions at the same time on Tuesday afternoons and evenings, Wednesday mornings and early afternoons, and Thursday mornings and early afternoons.
Mally Van Nek
Individual and Couples' Counsellor and Psychotherapist
Hello, I’m Mally and I am a qualified counsellor and psychotherapist registered with COSCA, as well as a Psychosexual Therapist in Training. I provide counselling to individuals and couples. As a trauma-informed multimodal counsellor; I combine different therapeutic styles and theories to create a space which is warm, safe and non-judgemental. I create a space where you will be free to be your authentic self, and I can support you as we explore the root of your challenges.
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I draw on many different aspects of counselling modalities to provide a safe, inclusive, warm space. I am particularly experienced with providing Psychodynamic Counselling, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR), and Schema Therapy. I tailor my approach to each individual to suit their goals and needs.
My counselling ethos is that ‘you are the expert on your life’ and I am there to support, empower, and help you explore whatever you choose to bring to each session. I am passionate about working with LGBTQIA individuals and couples, people who have experienced trauma and sexual violence, and those in polyamorous or non-monogamous relationships.
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I offer weekly or fortnightly sessions at the same time each week on Tuesday mornings and afternoons.
Laura Savage
Transactional Analysis Therapist
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Hi, I’m Laura, a counsellor trained in Transactional Analysis. My passion lies in helping individuals and couples find clarity and connection as they navigate life's challenges. My approach is empathetic and client-focused, offering a safe space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours while working towards meaningful change.
I’m here to support those feeling overwhelmed, lost, or disconnected from themselves. Together, we can explore what is holding you back and help you reconnect with the parts of yourself that may feel forgotten, guiding you towards a life that feels more fulfilling and joyful. I have experience working with issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship problems, family dynamics, pregnancy, miscarriage, stress, sex work, trauma, self-harm, LGBTQ+ experience and low self-esteem. I also bring years of experience working with autistic children, adults, and their families, offering unique insights and understanding to those navigating similar paths.
I offer weekly or fortnightly sessions at the same time on Wednesday afternoon/evenings and Friday mornings/ early afternoons.
Ross Pollard
CBT Psychotherapist
Hi I’m Ross, a qualified cognitive behavioural therapist and counsellor with the BACP. I provide individual and group therapy, delivered either face-to-face or online. I have experience supporting a wide range of adults, from students to senior professionals. As well as this, I specialise in working with disabled and neurodivergent clients (such as ADHD, Autism and dyslexia).
My approach generally follows a Cognitive Behavioural framework with integrated Compassion-focused practices. I help clients better understand themselves and their difficulties, to empower them to facilitate positive changes in their thinking, behaviours, and beliefs. On this journey, I equip clients with the skills to become more resilient and encourage personal growth through self-compassion and acceptance. I have experience working with anxiety, social anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, Autism, communication difficulties, shame, body dysmorphia and dyslexia.
I welcome clients who don’t know specifically what they wish to focus on, or who alternatively, just want a safe place to talk, rather than follow a specific approach. Every individual is unique, so I passionately believe in making the therapy process collaborative, inclusive of different learning styles and shaped by the client’s input. Therapy can be lifechanging and I want your experience to leave you feeling confident and fulfilled.
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I offer weekly or fortnightly sessions at the same time each week on Monday evenings, Thursday evenings, Friday evenings and Saturdays during the day.
Robyn Kane
Trainee Pluralistic Counsellor
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Hello! I’m Robyn, and I am a trainee Pluralistic counsellor. This means my approach is rooted in collaboration and creating a unique therapy that works for you. I draw upon many different theories and traditions to support your exploration and healing, working with the unique qualities that make you… you.
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We are complex and unique beings, and so are the issues we struggle with. I believe every issue and every person needs something different, and that these needs can change over time. Together, we will explore what brings you to therapy in a way that works for you; whether you prefer structure or just a warm space to go at your own pace. I can help you take the first steps in exploring the impact of your past, the relationships you have now, changing unhelpful or undesired behaviour, and even grapple with some of life’s harder questions, like what does it all mean, and how is the world around me helping or holding me back from what I want? Maybe you enjoy working creatively or find it easier to talk while sitting on the floor or moving around, or maybe you’re most comfortable simply talking in a comfy chair. Everything is welcome in our work together.
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Developing a trusting and genuine relationship is incredibly important for therapy to feel useful. I offer a space that is warm, deeply accepting, and values collaboration, versatility, and creativity to ensure we have the foundations we need to create a relationship that is meaningful and capable of creating change. I also have lived experience of therapy as a client, LGBTQIA+ issues and culture, and Neurodiversity (specifically ADHD), and I am interested in intersectionality and social justice perspectives. I welcome all people from all walks of life and approach our cultural differences with respect and curiosity when it becomes relevant to our work.
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My training is approved by the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and I follow their code of ethics. I also attend regular clinical supervision.
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I offer sessions on Wednesday afternoons.
Sarah Marsden
Trainee Counselling Psychologist
Hello, I’m Sarah, a trainee counselling psychologist in the final year of my doctoral training. I draw upon person-centred, compassion-focused, acceptance and commitment, and cognitive-behavioural approaches. I take an integrative and client-centred stance, meaning I tailor my approach to each individual’s needs, preferences, and goals. I believe therapy should feel collaborative, flexible, and uniquely suited to you.
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I hold a deep belief that every person already has the inner resources to overcome challenges, but sometimes we need the right space and support to uncover them. Therefore, I see therapy as a shared journey built on trust, warmth, and genuine human connection. I aim to create an atmosphere that feels relaxed, non-judgmental, and compassionate—a place where you can explore your thoughts and feelings freely.
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Over the past three years, I’ve supported clients facing a range of challenges, including low mood, anxiety, self-esteem issues, and general difficulties with day-to-day life. My focus is on helping clients build self-awareness, recognise unhelpful patterns, and develop practical, compassionate ways of coping.
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My philosophy is grounded in the belief that people are not defined by their difficulties, but by their potential for growth. Through therapy, I hope to help clients not only manage what feels difficult right now, but also develop resilience, authenticity, and a deeper sense of meaning in their lives.
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My hope is that you leave our sessions feeling lighter, clearer, and more confident in your ability to navigate life’s ups and downs.
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I offer weekly sessions in the morning and afternoon on Tuesdays.
Pepa Ivanova
Trainee Person-Centred Counsellor
Hello! I’m Pepa, a trainee person-centred counsellor. As a person-centred counsellor, I aim to create a collaborative and non-judgemental space where you can explore the difficulties, feelings, or questions that bring you to therapy - at a pace that feels right for you. These sessions are your space to talk about whatever feels important to you. My role isn’t to tell you what to do or give you advice, but to listen and try to understand what life feels like from your perspective. Together, we can begin to explore and make sense of your thoughts and emotions in a way that feels right for you.
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The person-centred approach is grounded in the belief that, given the right relationship with the counsellor, built on trust, empathy, and acceptance, clients can find their own way forward and create meaningful change in their lives.
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I have experience supporting people suffering from an eating disorder and body image concerns through various volunteer roles. In my current practice, I have worked with clients struggling with low confidence, anxiety, and relationship difficulties. I’m particularly drawn to exploring themes of identity, belonging, and self-acceptance. I welcome clients from all walks of life and aim to provide a space that feels inclusive, respectful, and open.
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My training is approved by the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP); additionally, I am a registered student member with the BACP. I follow an ethical code of practice, attend regular clinical supervision and group supervision as part of my professional development and commitment to safe, ethical practice.
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I offer weekly sessions on Thursday afternoons.