Welcome
My name is Agnieszka Carruthers and I am a fully qualified counsellor specialising in Transactional Analysis (TA). My preferred pronouns are she/her.
Originally from Poland, I settled down in Cumbria 21 years ago and now I call the beautiful market town of Cockermouth home.
My particular focus is working with late-diagnosed ADHD and autistic adults, including those exploring whether they may be neurodivergent. I work with the perfectionism, people pleasing and self-criticism that can accompany years of trying to fit in or meet expectations. I also support people living with chronic illness, anxiety and depression, and those navigating changes in relationships and their sense of identity.
During my training as a therapist, I experienced how helpful therapy can be in understanding myself and my relationships. I was diagnosed with ADHD later in life, and viewing my experiences through a neurodivergent lens has brought a deeper understanding of myself. I bring this perspective to my work, alongside curiosity about your own experience, offering space to explore your feelings, thoughts and relationships at your own pace.
I hold a Diploma in Transactional Analysis Counselling and a Master’s degree in Pedagogy.
I am a registered member of BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy), UKATA (UK Association for Transactional Analysis), EATA (European Association for Transactional Analysis) and I adhere to the codes of ethical practice.
I am also an Apprentice Trainer and Vice Chair of the Scottish Transactional Analysis Association (STAA). Through these roles, I support trainee counsellors and contribute to the TA community in Scotland and UK wide.
How do I work?
I bring warmth, curiosity and my own lived experience of late-diagnosed ADHD and chronic illness. This informs my understanding, while leaving room for your experience to be different from mine.
My approach is relational and grounded in Transactional Analysis. In everyday terms, this means exploring how your experiences and relationships have shaped the way you see yourself, and noticing patterns that once helped you cope but may now be making life harder.
Our relationship is an important part of this work. I will listen carefully, ask questions, share reflections and, when useful, gently challenge patterns we notice together. You can tell me when something doesn’t fit or when you need us to approach things differently.
We can work towards softening self-criticism, recognising your needs, setting boundaries and finding more choice in your relationships.
Alongside talking, we may use metaphors, images, drawing or notice how emotions and stress feel in your body. We will decide together what feels useful, taking account of your energy, pace and ways of processing.
What to expect in first session?
First Session
Our first session is an opportunity to get to know each other and consider whether working together feels right for you.
I will ask about what brings you to therapy, what feels difficult at the moment and what you would like support with. I will explain how I work, and there will be space for your questions and any adjustments that might help you feel comfortable in sessions.
You don’t need to have everything worked out or tell your whole story at once. There is room to be unsure, to struggle to find words and to take your time.
Services
Online Counselling can offer convenient, accessible and effective support. I offer secure and confidential sessions via Zoom.
Fees– £60.00
Duration– 50 minutes
Cancellation– I request that you give at least 48 hours notice should you wish to cancel a session. I reserve the right to make a charge for the session if the notice is less than 48 hours.
Payments – Payment is required prior to our session via bank transfer.
Price Increase– I review my pricing annually
