Jill Atkinson, BACP

Jill Atkinson combined a degree in Psychology with international teaching experience in South Korea, where exposure to different cultures sparked a lasting interest in how society and culture shape values and meaning. After returning to Scotland, she worked in NHS and other mental health organisations, gaining practical experience across a range of therapeutic settings. Through this work she pursued further training and completed the SCOTACS Diploma in Counselling and Group Work - a Cognitive Behavioural Approach, becoming a qualified counsellor and later gaining membership with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), a professional counselling organisation.

Jill also facilitates group work part time, leading sessions on self-compassion, low self-esteem and managing anxiety. She has undertaken additional continuing professional development in Compassion-Focused Therapy, Transactional Analysis, Mood and Food, Somatic Therapy and Outdoor Therapy, and draws on these approaches when appropriate. Her practice reflects an interest in interconnectedness - the links between body, community and the natural world - and she often encourages clients to tune into their senses and bodily experience as part of their work.

Jill describes counselling as a privileged collaborative process that deepens self-awareness, explores subconscious beliefs and emotions, and supports people to make different choices. Her aim is to help clients build trust in their own judgement, live with greater purpose and authenticity, and develop lasting self-directed ways of coping and growth.

Integrating therapeutic approaches for online support

Jill draws on a cognitive behavioural approach that helps people identify unhelpful thinking patterns and develop practical strategies to manage symptoms of anxiety, low mood and stress. She also uses elements of Compassion-Focused Therapy to cultivate self-kindness and reduce self-criticism, which can be especially helpful for struggles with shame, guilt and low self-esteem. In addition, Jill weaves in somatic-informed techniques that invite attention to bodily sensations and regulation, supporting clients who experience anxiety in the body or difficulty connecting with physical signals.

Finding the right therapeutic approach is part of the journey and Jill works collaboratively with each person to determine which methods suit their needs, goals and preferences. Together they review what is helping and adjust the focus over time so the work stays relevant and effective.

Online therapy with Jill is offered via video calls, phone sessions, live chat or text-based messaging, providing flexibility for different schedules and comfort levels. These options make it easier to attend sessions from wherever a client is located, support continuity of care during life changes, and allow clients to choose the format that best fits their day-to-day life while working with a licensed professional.