Jess Barkhouse

Hi, I’m Jess, and I work as a children’s counsellor here at Hope Meadows. My approach is grounded in person-centred theory, and I believe that each individual is able to grow and find their own way forward when they have the right conditions to do so. My role is to walk alongside them and offer support along the way. The therapeutic relationship is very important, and I aim to create a safe, non-judgemental space where individuals can feel heard, accepted and free to be themselves. 

 

I have a BSc in Psychology with Clinical Psychology, a PGDip in Counselling, and I’m currently completing my MSc in Counselling. I’ve worked with both children and adults in with a range of mental health difficulties, but my passion lies in supporting children and young people. I am particularly interested in working with individuals who are navigating changes in life, working with emotions such as anxiety, working with neurodivergence and supporting children to explore and understand how they experience the world.

 

I’ve grown up around horses and would always describe them as my happy place. Over the years, they’ve taught me so much about different parts of life; about emotions, body language, boundaries, patience, and the importance of self-care, just to name a few. Their calming presence has always grounded me, and I believe that many individuals can benefit from these gentle, unspoken lessons too.

 

In my sessions, I aim to follow the child’s lead. Sometimes that means talking, playing, or getting creative, and of course spending time with the horses if that feels right for them. Whatever the session may look like, my focus is on creating a safe space where children feel understood and supported with their feelings.

 

Overtime, I’ve seen how individuals I have worked with have grown in confidence, learned new ways to express themselves, and began to feel more comfortable in who they are.

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My qualifications include:

• BSc Psychology in Clinical Psychology

• PGDip in Counselling

• MSc in Counselling (to complete September 2026)

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Professionalism is one of our core values at Hope Meadows. You can be assured that I am first aid trained, DBS clear, fully insured (including professional indemnity), and receive regular clinical supervision.