Time to Talk Day: why talking matters - and when counselling can help

Time to Talk Day is the UK’s biggest mental health conversation — a yearly reminder that opening up (even a little) can make a big difference. It’s run by Mind and Rethink Mental Illness, in partnership with the Co-op. Each year, on the first Thursday in February (6 February in 2025), communities across the country make space to talk and listen.

Here in Manchester, it’s also a chance to connect with local support - whether that’s checking in with a friend, speaking to your GP, or exploring private counselling when you’d value a safe, confidential space that’s just for you.

Talking helps - and sometimes we need a different kind of space

Conversations with friends and family are precious. They remind us we’re not alone. But sometimes our loved ones are too close to the situation, or they simply don’t have the capacity right now. That’s where counselling comes in.

As a counsellor, my role is to offer a calm, confidential space where you can say the hard things out loud — without judgement, pressure, or “shoulds”. Together, we can slow down, make sense of what’s been happening, and explore what you need next.

What you can expect from counselling

• Professional, attuned listening. I’ll help you untangle thoughts and feelings and notice patterns that might be keeping you stuck.
• Confidentiality. What you share stays in the room (within clear ethical and safeguarding boundaries).
• Impartiality. No agenda, no sides - just support for your wellbeing.
• Consistency. Your protected time each week to breathe, reflect and move forward at your pace.

How counselling can help you feel more like you

People often describe therapy as a turning point. Common outcomes include:

• New perspectives on familiar problems - the “ah, that’s why this keeps happening” moments.
• More self-awareness and self-compassion, which tends to lift confidence and reduce shame.
• Clearer choices and coping tools for anxiety, low mood, grief, stress, or relationship struggles.
• Feeling “held” and understood, especially if you’ve been carrying things on your own for a long time.

You don’t have to wait for a crisis. Counselling is just as valuable for personal growth, building resilience, and making thoughtful changes.

Counselling in Manchester - online and in person

I work with adults across Greater Manchester (and online for wider UK). If it’s your first time exploring therapy, we’ll take it step by step:

1. Free no-pressure enquiry. Share what’s bringing you, ask questions, and check how we’d work together.
2. Initial session. We’ll map what’s going on and what you hope to change; I’ll explain the practicals and we’ll agree a plan that feels sustainable.
3. Regular sessions. Weekly or fortnightly - short-term or open-ended - always at your pace.

If you’re ready to talk - or simply curious - you can get in touch to arrange an initial chat.

Final thought for Time to Talk Day

Starting a conversation is powerful. Choosing counselling can be the next step - a dedicated space to feel heard, understand yourself more fully, and make changes that last. If that sounds helpful, I’m here.