A space to be
exactly as you are
I'm Jo MacDonald, a trauma-informed integrative counsellor working creatively and compassionately with individuals in Margate, Kent and online across the UK.
A space to be
exactly as you are
I'm Jo MacDonald, a trauma-informed integrative counsellor working creatively and compassionately with individuals in Margate, Kent and online across the UK.
I’m a counsellor supporting people through transitions — a bereavement, a relationship ending, a diagnosis, becoming a parent, or a change in career — as well as ongoing anxiety, low mood and stress.
I integrate trauma-informed and creative approaches, paying attention to the body as well as the mind. My style is warm and relatable and each session is tailored to your needs, at a pace that feels right for you.
"You can show up exactly as you are and will be met with compassion, respect and warmth. I never sit across from anyone and think what's wrong with you. Instead, I'm reflecting on the survival strategies adapted in response to what's happened in your life."
Being in this world can be challenging, and you don't have to face things alone. Whether you are navigating a difficult time, a profound life change, or just looking to understand yourself better, I'm here to provide support and clarity as you find your way.
Counselling can feel very different to other relationships in your life. It asks for openness, honesty and active participation and, at times, can bring up difficult thoughts and feelings. You will not be alone in this process. I will support you in exploring and making sense of whatever arises, in a safe, compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can feel seen, heard and understood.
Starting counselling can feel daunting, so I offer a free initial consultation by phone or video call. Please allow approximately 20 minutes. It's a no-obligation chance to talk and see if we're a good fit.
For most of my life, I misunderstood creativity as only applying to the arts. Through counselling training and my own therapy, I came to recognise creativity as a fundamental human trait, used for problem solving, connection and expression.
We are all creative: the clothes we wear, the way we organise our homes, curate playlists, doodle, journal, tell jokes, take photos, daydream. But in today's busy, tech-driven world we've lost touch with ourselves and our innate creative abilities.
In my counselling room, clients reconnect with that creativity. Alongside talking, this might mean working with an image, object, or metaphor — always by choice, never a requirement. They develop insights into patterns, beliefs and emotional responses; take risks, experiment and connect to different parts of themselves, in a space where they feel supported and encouraged.
Curious what this looks like in practice? See my FAQs.
Qualified in trauma-informed practice, including Level 4 in Rape & Sexual Abuse Counselling.
A particular interest in supporting clients diagnosed or self-identifying as AuDHD, ADHD or Autistic.
Person-Centred, Transactional Analysis, Gestalt, Psychodynamic, CBT and Existential approaches.
Body-based and creative approaches alongside traditional talk therapy.
Whether you're navigating a difficult time, a profound life change, or simply looking to understand yourself better, I offer support with a range of concerns including:
An integrative counsellor working from a private therapy room in Margate, offering in-person, online or telephone support for both short and long-term needs. Appointments are available weekday daytimes, Saturday mornings and some weekday evenings.
Before training to become a therapist, I spent nearly 20 years working in communications for both private and public sector organisations. Irrespective of the cause, I never found fulfilment or purpose developing public affairs and public relations campaigns. What energised me was working with my team and empowering them to come up with ways to resolve their difficulties. I was a trained mental health first aider, Samaritan and Shout volunteer and knew my heart lay in supporting people's emotional health and wellbeing.
Referrals Welcome
I also accept referrals from GP surgeries and Social Services. Please contact me directly to discuss this, or pass on my details to the person who may be interested in counselling.
Privacy & Confidentiality
All contact and sessions are confidential. I adhere to the BACP's ethical framework and GDPR. Your information will never be shared without your consent, except where required by law for safety reasons.
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