Emma Yates
Psychotherapeutic Counsellor
Emma is an integrative humanistic counsellor who works with children, young people, adults and couples. Her practice is rooted in the belief that everyone has the capacity to grow, heal and reconnect when provided with the right conditions of empathy, safety and creativity.
She draws on a range of modalities to tailor support to the individual, with an emphasis on creative methods such as music, visualisation and expressive tools, which can help clients explore experiences that are hard to put into words.
For couples, Emma has specialist training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) — a highly researched, attachment-based approach that supports partners in understanding their patterns of conflict and rebuilding secure bonds. She offers a calm, supportive space where couples can move from cycles of defensiveness or distance to greater connection and intimacy.
Emma also brings specialist experience in perinatal support. Having trained as a doula and hypnobirthing practitioner, she has supported mothers and families through pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period. She integrates her knowledge of attachment, emotional regulation and creative therapies into this work, helping parents-to-be navigate change with confidence and compassion.
In addition, Emma is a qualified harp therapist with many years as a professional harpist and teacher. Where appropriate, she can weave harp music into sessions to aid relaxation, regulate the nervous system and create a gentle space for reflection and healing.
Emma is particularly attuned to supporting clients with anxiety, low self-esteem, life transitions, relationship challenges and the emotional impact of parenting. Across all her work, her values are grounded in warmth, presence and creativity — offering clients the freedom to explore at their own pace while feeling fully heard and supported.
Qualifications:
Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling (Children and Young People), 2025
Level 4/5 Diploma in Counselling Skills, York College, 2020
CPD: Dr Sue Johnson’s Intensive Training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for Couples in Crisis, 2025
Certified Hypnobirthing Practitioner
Perinatal Doula training
Qualified Harp Therapist