Compassionate Counselling Tailored to You
Mercie Kennedy
I am a qualified counsellor who is registered with the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and as such my work is upheld by their ethical standards. I work with individuals aged 18 years old and upwards. I first started my training in 2006, undertaking a Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Skills. Since then I have continued my training achieving a Masters in Counselling and Psychotherapy in 2022. I regularly undertake Continuous Professional Development and training to ensure that I keep up to date with relevant therapeutic approaches and theories pertaining to counselling and psychotherapy.
What do you offer?
What is your experience?
I have experience of working with those with addictions and substance dependency. I also have experience of supporting those classed as having disabilities. I have worked in educational and third sector settings and have spent 10 years supporting adults with Autism. I have worked as a counsellor in educational settings supporting teens and adults with a multitude of issues such as trauma, abuse, bereavement, anxiety, stress, depression, self harm, suicidal thoughts and relationship difficulties. In 2023 I set up my private practice, supporting clients with a variety of issues and I continue this work today.
What are your qualifications?
My qualifications are as follows:
- Fundamentals of Natural Lifemanship “Foundations” Training in Equine Assisted Therapy (Natural Lifemanship) 2025
- Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Domestic Abuse (North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College) 2024
- Ecotherapy & Walk and Talk Counselling Training (CPCAB) 2022
- QA Level 3 Award in Emergency First Aid (RQF) 2022
- MA in Counselling and Psychotherapy (University of Leeds) 2022
- Animal Assisted Therapy Diploma (Centre of Excellence) 2020
- Level 2 Certificate in Equality & Diversity (NCFE) 2012
- BSc (Honours) in Psychology (The Open University) 2007
- Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Skills (Nelson and Colne College) 2006
Why do you specialise in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy?
My passion for equine assisted psychotherapy stems from a lifelong connection with horses. Having been around horses from a very young age, I experienced first-hand their unique ability to create a sense of calm, balance and emotional stability. These early experiences sparked a deep appreciation for the therapeutic relationship that can develop between humans and horses.
Over the years, I have gained an understanding of equine behaviour and communication. This enables me to remain attuned not only to what my clients are bringing into the therapeutic space but also to the subtle responses and communication offered by horses. This dual awareness creates valuable opportunities for deeper insight, emotional exploration and understanding of the underlying causes of challenges and distress.
Whilst traditional talking therapies can be highly effective, there are times when words alone are not enough. Trauma, grief, anxiety and all other emotions lay within the body. Equine assisted psychotherapy offers a powerful, body-based approach to therapy, allowing healing and self-discovery to begin where words may be difficult to find.
Working alongside horses provides a unique opportunity to connect with another sentient being in a deeply embodied way. Horses are naturally sensitive, responsive and highly attuned to human emotions. As herd animals, cooperation and connection are essential to their survival and so they have a genuine want to ease distress for others, whether this be another horse or a human being.
I am continually fascinated by the therapeutic potential of equine assisted psychotherapy. The presence of horses can help clients develop greater self-awareness, emotional regulation, confidence, resilience and connection. Through this unique therapeutic partnership, individuals are offered a safe and supportive environment to explore their experiences, process emotions and move towards meaningful change.
