Kirsten McKenzie
I am a masters-level, pluralistically trained counsellor. That means I offer a range of methods to help you explore your problems, make best use of your existing strengths and resources and work towards your goals.
Therapy Services
Therapy can take many forms, including talking through problems, using creative methods or even using the outdoor environment to develop sensory awareness. As a writer I love using creative writing, journaling and narrative therapy techniques in my work, helping people rediscover their creative spark through counselling. As a pluralistic therapist I will use a range of methods, including those drawn from person centred, psychodynamic or CBT therapies, but this will always be done in collaboration with you, in the way you find most helpful.
In particular, I am interested in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Inner Child work and Transactional Analysis. As someone with lived experience of being a carer I also have a particular interest in supporting carers in their demanding roles.
I provide counselling face to face, online and sometimes outdoors, working from St Andrews and the East Neuk of Fife.
Qualifications and Experience
I completed my Masters in Pluralistic Counselling at Abertay University (with Distinction) in 2022. I am also a published author of two novels and various short stories and completed the M Litt in Creative Writing at St Andrews University in 2007. My masters project involved using creative methods to explore our inner child and rediscover our core values.
My first degree, completed in 1997, was in English Literature and Scottish History at the University of St Andrews and since then I have worked in PR as well as teaching creative writing.
I have also completed CPD training in CBT, ASSIST suicide prevention, working with addiction, narrative techniques, compassion-focused therapy (CFT) and outdoor therapy.
“The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.”
— Carl Rogers
KIRSTEN MCKENZIE 