Our approach
Run by women, for women
Our programmes are designed simply to provide the best and affordable counselling in a confidential and safe setting for women who are experiencing difficulties as a result of current or past emotional stress and trauma.
A unique mix of short and longer term support
We are the only organisation in York where the usual maximum of 6 sessions per person does not apply. Averaging 15-20 weeks for each client, reviewed every 6 sessions, crucially sessions are based on the amount of time each individual needs to help them address their problems fully rather than their ability to pay for them.
Quicker access to face-to-face counselling
Our initial telephone assessment means that YWCS clients avoid the lengthy waits seen by other services.
A choice of different models of therapy
Our counsellors and psychotherapists come from a range of backgrounds, the majority are volunteers and all of whom are members of BACP (British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy) or equivalent. They work with different methodologies including Dramatherapy, Art therapy, EMDR and DBT.
A core counselling offer enhanced by specialisms
Many of our counsellors have particular experience in areas like eating disorder support, domestic abuse, child sexual abuse, pre- and post-natal depression. This expands choice for women in York and where possible clients are paired with the counsellor most appropriate to their needs.
Free to many women
The women that we support do not have the financial means to access private counselling, which costs anything between £40-£70 per hour. We ask women to contribute only what they can afford and if they can’t afford it, we do not turn them away. Thanks to our Vulnerable Women’s Fund this year 20% of our clients received help completely free of charge.
Development of professional counsellors
Our aim is also to develop the skills and confidence of our counsellors through a focus on support and professional development including free access to a minimum of 4 high-quality training courses per year. This, and our welcoming ethos, has enabled the organisation to continue to attract and retain volunteer counsellors of a consistently high quality.
Maintaining our
high reputation
Our reputation for excellence results from our strong commitment to providing high quality counselling for every single woman we support, every step of the way.