Welcome to Stepping Stones Counselling Centre

Let me introduce myself. My name is Rachel Cruz. I am a qualified and experienced Counsellor, Family Therapist, Child Development & Behaviour Specialist based in Isleworth, West London. I have worked many years in schools, counselling agencies and the Hounslow Council Youth Offending Team as a Parent Support Worker.

I am the Founder of Stepping Stones Counselling Centre and my main professional qualifications are:

• Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling (2006)

• Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Studies (2004)

• Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills (2003)

• Level 3 Certificate in Nursery Nursing  (1987)

You can find out more about my training and professional development here.

First appointment
You don't need a referral from a health professional to benefit from the counselling and parent support services that I provide. Once you have contacted me by phone, text or e-mail, I will arrange a convenient time for you to come for an Introductory Session. Sessions are usually once a week and last an hour. This time goes surprisingly quickly. The first few weeks are often used to gather information about you and your situation - past and present - as this helps me empathise with you and provide the best possible advice and support to suit your individual needs and circumstances. 

Areas of specialism:

• Stress, anxiety, panic attacks and phobias

• Trauma

• Loss and bereavement

• Anger

• Abuse

• Low self-esteem and low self-confidence

• Cross-cultural issues

• Depression

• Women's issues

• Work problems

• Relationship problems

• Pregnancy and postnatal issues

• Parenting struggles

• Childhood and teenage behavioural problems

• Couple & marriage problems

• Self-harm

• Domestic violence

Why counselling?
Sometimes life can be difficult for many reasons. A chat with a friend or family member is not always enough and we need professional support. Counselling can help you explore and understand your feelings in a safe environment where you won't be judged. It can make the difference between existing and living.

Why parent support?
Becoming a parent can be stressful. It's a big adjustment - both physically and mentally. Parent support enables you to share your feelings, develop practical tools to help you deal with difficult issues, improve family relationships and give you more confidence. 

Initial Assessment (any age)
£40
50-minute initial assessment session
to discuss your counselling and/or parent support needs

Counselling Session (Adults)
£45
60-minute weekly counselling session
for adults (19 and over)

Counselling Session (Couples)
£55
60-minute weekly counselling session
for couples

Counselling Session (Children)
£50
60-minute weekly counselling session
for children (7-18 years old)

Counselling Session (Families)
£60
60-minute weekly counselling session
for families (up to 4 people)

Parent Support Session
£50
60-minute weekly support session
for parents

Group Therapy Session
£120
60-minute weekly group therapy session.
The cost can be shared by up to 6 people.