Person centred therapy in Amersham, Buckinghamshire & online
Welcome to
Counselling with Ana Maria in Amersham, Buckinghamshire
& Online
"Supporting you through life’s challenges
with warmth and understanding"
Welcome, and thank you for visiting my website. My name is Ana Maria and I am a counsellor providing both short- and long-term therapy to adult individuals in Amersham and online.
My Values & Approach
I’m Ana Maria Harbottle, a BACP-registered Person-Centred Counsellor, fluent in English and Spanish, based in Amersham, Buckinghamshire. Having lived in different countries and experienced diverse ways of being, I understand how life’s transitions, expectations, and past experiences can shape the way we see ourselves and relate to others.
At the heart of my work is deep respect for each individual's unique journey. I believe therapy is about allowing time and space for understanding, processing, and rediscovering a sense of self. My approach is rooted in:
Compassion – Creating a warm, accepting space where you feel truly heard.
Collaboration – Therapy is not one-size-fits-all; we work together in a way that suits you.
Authenticity – A space where you can be yourself without any fear of judgment.
Empowerment – Helping you truly trust your own voice and inner wisdom.
I understand how life’s experiences—family expectations, cultural identity, relationships, and past wounds—can shape who we are and how we see ourselves. In our work together, we explore these influences with gentleness, curiosity, and respect, helping you move forward in a way that feels true to you.
Qualifications
BSc in Person-Centred Pluralistic Counselling (Advanced Practitioner) – Metanoia Institute
Registered Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP UK)
Ongoing professional supervision and continuous development
How counselling can help you
Counselling is a space where you can begin to untangle confusing feelings, make sense of past experiences, and reconnect with yourself in a way that feels true. It’s not about fixing what’s "wrong"—it’s about understanding yourself, your emotions, and the patterns that may be holding you back.
Life can be complex, and sometimes we don’t realise how much we’re carrying until it becomes too heavy. Whether you’re struggling with stress, low self-esteem, or uncertainty about your path, therapy can help you process emotions, build resilience, and find a way forward.
Counselling isn’t just for those in crisis. It’s a chance to pause, reflect, and work through feelings that may have been buried or dismissed for years. Many people find that through therapy, they develop a greater sense of freedom, self-acceptance, and connection—not just with themselves, but with those around them.
How I can help you
I offer in-person, online, and telephone therapy for adults who want to explore their emotions, relationships, and life challenges with support and compassion.
Counselling with me is collaborative, meaning we work together to find an approach that suits your individual needs. My pluralistic approach integrates traditional talking therapy with creative methods or outdoor therapy. These options are always available but never required—our sessions will be shaped around what feels right for you.
In our sessions, I offer a space that is non-judgmental, warm, and entirely focused on you. There’s no pressure to have the “right” words or to know exactly what’s wrong. My role is to listen deeply, to understand, and to help you explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace.
Let’s Talk
Taking the first step can feel daunting.
I offer a free, introductory call where you can ask me any questions and get a feel for whether we’re the right fit.
My location
My practice is based in Amersham, a quiet and private setting on the edge of the woods, offering a peaceful and confidential space for therapy. It is easily accessible from Chesham, High Wycombe, Beaconsfield, Great Missenden, Rickmansworth, Gerrards Cross, Marlow, Hemel Hempstead, Uxbridge, Slough, Watford, and Aylesbury, as well as other surrounding areas.
For those driving, there is private parking available. If you are travelling by public transport, Amersham station is just 25 minutes away, and the practice is located within easy reach of local transport links.
To get in touch, you can email or fill out the contact form below. I aim to respond as soon as possible and look forward to speaking with you.
Sessions & Fees
- Initial Consultation – telephone or online – Free
- Sessions – 60 mins - £65
I have some appointments available for concessions, so please contact me for more information.
Payment
Payment for the session needs to be made at least 24 hours in advance of your appointment.
Cancellation policy
If, for any reason, you are unable to make your appointment, please provide at least 24 hours notice to avoid being charged for the session.
Get in touch
Thank you for reaching out. Taking this step towards counselling is an important one, and I appreciate your interest in working together. If you have any questions or would like to book a session, I would love to hear from you.
Phone: 07920 683779
FAQs
How do you know if I need counselling/psychotherapy?
Counselling sessions can help you to gain clarity on any issues, change old patterns, untangle complex personal issues, or embark on a journey of self-development. You may seek counselling as a result of a crisis, or you may be encouraged to seek counselling by family members, friends or colleagues.
What happens in a session?
I will provide a safe environment in which to explore your issues. You are free to discuss whatever you wish, from everyday events, dilemmas, feelings, and thoughts, to any regrets, aspirations, memories and dreams.
Who comes to counselling?
There is no barrier as to who can access counselling. I welcome you regardless of your culture, religion, gender or sexual orientation.
Are you the right person to help me?
By having an initial consultation, you will hopefully be able to answer this question. The relationship between counsellor and client is central to successful therapy so it is important that you feel comfortable with me so we can build a trusting therapeutic relationship.
How long are the sessions?
Sessions last for 60 minutes. It is best for us to have a regular slot booked in each week for the duration of your sessions, but I appreciate that busy lives mean that this isn’t always possible. I will endeavour to be as flexible as I can. Evening and daytime appointments are available.
Will my sessions be confidential?
Yes, I adhere to the BACP code of ethics. I will not share information about you, other than in very exceptional circumstances such as if I was concerned about your or someone else’s safety.
I comply with data protection legislation and maintain the security of all client information.
Note that registered therapists are obliged to have a supervisor overseeing their work, to ensure they are maintaining a high level of assistance to their clients. While I might discuss the generalities of your case with my supervisor, I will not divulge your identity, and my supervisor is also under oath to protect the privacy of any information that is shared.
How much does it cost?
Each session costs £65, payable in advance of the session.
How many sessions will I need?
Some people only need a few sessions, especially if they have a particular problem that they want to focus on. Others need something more long term. As with the counselling itself, the number and timing of your sessions will be tailored to suit your needs.
What happens if I cannot attend?
I understand that there might be situations where you won’t be able to attend the session. Please give as much notice as possible if you need to cancel or reschedule. Missed or cancelled sessions will need to be paid in full if notice is received with less than 24hrs’ notice.