Close-up of sandy beach with sparkling ocean in the background under a bright blue sky.

It’s time to

Invest in Yourself

Ashley Madeliene Pigford, counsellor based in Cullercoats, sitting in her therapy office.

Hi, I’m Ashley

From my private practice in Cullercoats I offer counselling for adults and children along with practical and emotional support to parents.

We all have different and unique experiences in life, so your sessions with me will be gentle, filled with kindness and compassion.

My counselling style is empathetic, caring and non-judgemental, in a nurturing environment to give you a personalised therapy approach.

Why consider counselling?

  • Get confidential support to explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment.

  • Build resilience, improve communication skills, and develop as a person.

  • Taking this step shows self-awareness and commitment to positive change.

  • Gain clarity and coping strategies from someone trained to help.

Living room with sliding glass doors opening to a deck overlooking the ocean, two lounge chairs outside, and indoor furniture including a leather sofa with a blanket.

  • Children and teens benefit from having an independent space to process experiences.

  • Navigate difficult emotions, relationship issues, major changes, or feeling stuck.

  • Strengthen relationships and improve family dynamics for all ages.

  • Address immediate concerns or work toward long-term personal goals.

Working together…

  • Pebble beach with smooth stones and a sunset over the ocean in the background.

    CONNECT

    We begin with a complimentary initial session. This allows us to discuss your needs and my approach, helping you feel confident about whether we're a good fit.

  • Two hands holding small, colorful, polished stones against a blurred background of rocks.

    EXPLORE

    Once you're ready to proceed, we'll arrange regular sessions that suit your schedule. Sessions are flexible - face-to-face or online. Together we'll unpack the challenges you're experiencing and identify the most helpful ways forward.

  • Stack of seven smooth stones balanced on a pebble-covered beach with the ocean in the background.

    GROW

    Throughout our work together, we'll check in on how you're feeling and what's working well. This collaborative approach means you stay in control and can choose the pace that feels right for you.

Kind words

  • “Thank you for being my safe space. My resting place. The witness to all of my pain and the patient listener of my stories. I cannot express how much your kindness and support has given me my life back. Meeting you has been truly life changing and I feel very blessed. Thank you.”

  • “As soon as I met Ashley, I knew she was the perfect fit.

    The structure of the sessions is brilliant and entirely self-directed. I can choose to talk about whatever I need to, or if I’m a bit lost, she always has something helpful prepared that I can choose to go through with her.

    She offers expert guidance in the right direction without judgement and at the end of each session, I feel positive and confident in how to move forward, without getting stuck in the past.

    I would absolutely recommend counselling with Ashley, she is such a kind and caring person and a brilliant listener who makes me feel very heard and understood. She has helped me more than I could’ve imagined and really goes the extra mile to offer support - she’s like a guardian angel.”

  • “Ashley is such a kind and caring person, and that really comes through in her work. She always remembers what’s going on in my life and takes the time to check in, which makes me feel genuinely supported. I would highly recommend her to anyone considering counselling.

    I’m still currently attending sessions and have found the support incredibly helpful. I’ve been learning how to put healthier boundaries in place with family, friends, and work, as well as understanding my thoughts and emotions more clearly.

    I’ve also been taught calming strategies for anxiety, including breathing exercises and meditation, which have made a real difference.”


  • “From the very beginning, Ashley created a safe and calm space, and the time and care she put into building a bond with my daughter meant everything. She felt incredibly safe with Ashley, which as her mam was so reassuring.

    Ashley’s approach was patient, understanding and completely non-judgemental. She supported my daughter in a gentle and natural way, allowing her to open up in her own time while also giving her the tools to manage her feelings.

    Almost one year later, she is like a completely different child — so happy and pretty much worry-free. She is now able to be herself, enjoy her childhood, and live more freely, which is something I will always be grateful for.

    I would highly recommend Ashley to anyone considering counselling for their child. The care, time and genuine support she provides truly makes a lasting difference.”