Guiding light counselling.

16/11/2025

Dementia. If you or a loved one are struggling either with the illness or as a family member, specialist therapy can help. Reach out for a chat. nicola@guidinglightcounselling.net.

IF I get dementia, I’d like my family to hang this wish list up on the wall where I live. I want them to remember these things.
1a. Every time you enter the room announce yourself. “Hi Mom- it’s Margaret.”
NEVER ask- Do you know who I am??? That causes anxiety.
1. If I get dementia, I want my friends and family to embrace my reality.
2. If I think my spouse is still alive, or if I think we’re visiting my parents for dinner, let me believe those things. I’ll be much happier for it.
3. If I get dementia, don’t argue with me about what is true for me versus what is true for you.
4. If I get dementia, and I am not sure who you are, do not take it personally. My timeline is confusing to me.
5. If I get dementia, and can no longer use utensils, do not start feeding me. Instead, switch me to a finger-food diet, and see if I can still feed myself.
6. If I get dementia, and I am sad or anxious, hold my hand and listen. Do not tell me that my feelings are unfounded.
7. If I get dementia, I don’t want to be treated like a child. Talk to me like the adult that I am.
8. If I get dementia, I still want to enjoy the things that I’ve always enjoyed. Help me find a way to exercise, read, and visit with friends.
9. If I get dementia, ask me to tell you a story from my past.
10. If I get dementia, and I become agitated, take the time to figure out what is bothering me.
11. If I get dementia, treat me the way that you would want to be treated.
12. If I get dementia, make sure that there are plenty of snacks for me in the house. Even now if I don’t eat I get angry, and if I have dementia, I may have trouble explaining what I need.
13. If I get dementia, don’t talk about me as if I’m not in the room.
14. If I get dementia, don’t feel guilty if you cannot care for me 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It’s not your fault, and you’ve done your best. Find someone who can help you, or choose a great new place for me to live.
15. If I get dementia, and I live in a dementia care community, please visit me often.
16. If I get dementia, don’t act frustrated if I mix up names, events, or places. Take a deep breath. It’s not my fault.
17. If I get dementia, make sure I always have my favorite music playing within earshot.
18. If I get dementia, and I like to pick up items and carry them around, help me return those items to their original place.
19. If I get dementia, don’t exclude me from parties and family gatherings.
20. If I get dementia, know that I still like receiving hugs or handshakes.
21. If I get dementia, remember that I am still the person you know and love.”

31/10/2025

Break the chain, heal yourself so that your pain doesn’t become their inheritance.
Therapy helps you face the past, understand the present, and change the future in a safe, meaningful way.
Get in touch nicola@guidinglightcounselling.net

14/10/2025

Every relationship faces challenges — how you handle them matters.
Couples counselling offers a calm, supportive, non judgmental space to help you reconnect, communicate openly, and move forward with confidence.

08/10/2025

This! If you need help silencing your inner critic then therapy is for you. Get in touch.
nicola@guidinglightcounselling.net

03/10/2025

Children & Teen Counselling (Ages 4–17) 🌟

💛 I can help with:
✔ Anxiety, stress & low mood
✔ Friendship & school worries/avoidance
✔ Confidence & self-esteem
✔ Coping with family changes or loss
✔ Support for autistic & neurodiverse children

🌈 Every child is unique — I use play, creativity, and age-appropriate strategies to help them feel safe, understood, and supported.

✨ Safe, caring, and child-centred therapy
📍 [Online / In-person sessions available]

📞 Contact me today to find out more or to arrange an initial consultation.

07444 951684 Nicola@guidinglightcounselling.net

26/09/2025

Please share.

Fertility challenges can feel overwhelming.
You may be carrying emotions that are hard to share — stress, grief, frustration, or uncertainty about the future.

I offer a supportive space to talk openly, process what you’re going through, and find ways to cope with the journey ahead.

✨ Reach out for an initial free consultation.

25/09/2025

Absolutely this. Put yourself first, then you’ll be the “bigger” person.

14/09/2025

25/08/2025

Please share.

Children’s mental health shapes their future. Anxiety, sadness, or behavioural changes are not ‘just a phase’—they are signals that your child needs support. As a children’s counsellor, I help young people navigate life’s challenges with care and compassion. Early support makes all the difference. If you notice your child struggling, don’t wait—help is here.

I work with children from 4 to 17 years old.

Contact me for availability.
nicola@guidinglightcounselling.net

10/08/2025

I have worked with so many people, adults and children who feel not good enough, with people pleasing tendencies and the exhausting habit of over thinking.
We can change this.
You will see that you are enough.