Counselling for Families Affected by Imprisonment

You're not their crime. You deserve support without judgement.

A Judgement-Free Space

When someone you love goes to prison, you receive a sentence too - but without any of the support. Lots of counsellors work with people in prison or part of multiagency groups to prevent people going to prison. I work with people with loved ones in prison.

Very few counsellors work with mums, parents, wives and partners of prisoners. When your loved one goes to prison there is so much emotion around the journey - from arrest to prosecution and the endless waiting to sentencing. The stigma, the isolation, the complicated tangle of emotions... It's a lot to carry, especially when you feel like you can't talk to anyone about it or if you feel that others are judging you for your choices and family.

I'm Amy, and I offer confidential, non-judgemental counselling for people with family members or loved ones in prison. Whatever your relationship to them, however you feel about what happened - this is a space where you can process it all without fear of being judged.

I use a person-centred approach, which means our sessions are led by you and what you need. There's no agenda, no homework, no pressure to be anywhere other than where you are right now. I offer a holistic, gender-inclusive space where we explore what is important to you. With additional training in aphantasia, GSRD (Gender, Sex, and Relationship Diversity), and neuro-affirming practices, I ensure my clients receive care that is current, research-led, and deeply human.

Alongside my training to become a therapist, I have an academic background through an MSc in Forensic Science and a BSc in Criminology and Forensic Science, I know how prison systems don’t work for everyone, how life changing to families a prison sentence can be and how lonely it can be because you feel like you can’t talk to your friends or other family.

The Sentence You Didn't Receive

Having a loved one in prison brings its own unique challenges:

Stigma and shame — feeling judged for someone else's actions
Isolation — not knowing who you can tell, who will understand
Complex emotions: anger, grief, guilt, love, shame — often all at once
Practical burdens: finances, childcare, prison visits, navigating the system
Deciding what to tell children, family, friends, employers
The waiting — for calls, visits, release dates, appeals

However you're feeling about your loved one and their situation, those feelings are valid. You're allowed to feel angry. You're allowed to still love them. You're allowed to feel both at once.

What We Can Explore Together

Processing your emotions: untangling the complicated feelings that come with this situation
Coping strategies: navigating the day-to-day reality
Boundaries: deciding what you can give and what you need to protect
Identity: separating who you are from what they did
Preparing for change: whether that's release, extended sentences, or redefining the relationship
Supporting others: helping children or other family members while looking after yourself

Book Your Confidential Discovery Call

Complete Confidentiality

Everything we discuss stays between us. I understand that privacy is especially important in this situation, and I take confidentiality seriously. There are limits to confidentiality which we will discuss in your initial consultation. Sessions are available online, so there's no need to be seen attending in person if that's a concern.

How we begin

Free discovery call (30 mins) - We have a chat, you ask any questions, and we see if we're a good fit. No pressure, no commitment

First session - We explore what's brought you here. This is your space - there's no judgement and no expectations.

Ongoing support - Weekly or fortnightly sessions. In order to make sessions as accessible as possible I offer 30 minute, 50 minute and 80 minute slots. We work at your pace on whatever matters most to you.

A Guide to the Unknowns

How much are sessions?

Sessions are £40 for 30 minutes, £60 for 50 minutes and £90 for 80 minutes. I offer very limited concession and low cost spaces, when enquiring please let me know you are interested in these.

Is this pre-trial therapy?

No, Pre-trial therapy is support provided to a victim or witness after a crime has been reported but before they give evidence in court. Its primary goal is to help the individual manage the emotional impact of the event without discussing or coaching their specific testimony.

What if I have conflicting feelings about my family member?

That's completely normal. You can love someone and be angry at them. You can want to support them and also need distance. All of it is okay.

What stage does my loved one have to be at?

Your loved one can be at any stage of there journey or sentence when you reach out for support. I will ask questions during our initial consultation to ensure my service is right for you. If my service is not right for you I always do my best to find you a counsellor that fits your needs.

Is this really confidential?

Yes. What you share with me stays with me. There are limits to confidentiality which we will discuss in your initial consultation.

Does it matter what crime they committed?

No. Whatever the circumstances, you deserve support. This is about you and your experience, not about judging them.

Ready to Talk?

Book a free, confidential discovery call. It's just a conversation to see if we're a good fit.