Meet Nicki Cohen Counselling, a dedicated practice supporting clients from ages of 11+ with person-centred therapy and mental health guidance.
Based at The Brentano Suite Elstree, Nicki shares how she helps individuals and supervisees build resilience, find clarity, and create positive change.
What inspired you to pursue a career in counselling and mental health?
I thought about training to be a counsellor for many years. Among my friends and family, I always played the role of listener, empathy giver, and rational thinker — so maybe it was destined!
Even while working as a youth worker and later in politics, I knew this was the path I wanted to follow.
The hardest part was finding the time to train. At 35, I told a friend that if I started the five-year course, I’d be 40 by the time I qualified. She replied, “You’ll be 40 in five years anyway, so you might as well get on with it!”
What areas do you specialise in, and how do you approach your work with clients and supervisees?
I chose not to specialise in one particular area. Instead, I work with a wide range of clients from ages of 11 to 100, covering issues such as anxiety, depression, family challenges, relationships, self-esteem, and bereavement, to name just a few.
I trained integratively, meaning in multiple modalities, but I tend to work in a very person centered way, believing that everyone has the power to find their own solutions, make changes and through working collaboratively with the client and being alongside them, I can help to facilitate that.
I approach supervision with the same principle. I enjoy supporting fellow counsellors as they think through dilemmas and strengthen their practice.
Who do you find most rewarding to work with, and why?
I spent many years as the Mental Health Lead in a large secondary school, so I consider teenagers my main area of expertise — though I enjoy working with adults just as much.
I find every client rewarding because they actively reach out for support and work hard to make positive changes. What could be better than that?
Could you share a success story or moment that reflects the impact of your work?
When I worked at the school, the Headteacher asked me to see a young boy who was very disillusioned with school life and at risk of permanent exclusion.
At first, he tore up the appointment letter and refused to attend. Eventually, I persuaded him to have a quick 10-minute chat, which grew into two years of therapy. During that time, he made many positive changes and came to see how valuable it can be to get the right support.
Why did you choose The Brentano Suite Elstree as the base for your practice?
The Brentano Suite provides everything I need — a secure, quiet, and friendly environment perfectly located for my clients, with a welcoming centre team, security, lovely meeting rooms, and even an excellent supply of chocolate!
What’s ahead for your practice — any new services, projects, or goals on the horizon?
I’m fortunate that my practice continues to grow, and I plan to build on this progress.
I recently began running workshops for parents and plan to offer many more. I also aim to expand my work with businesses and charities, directly training their staff on a range of mental health issues. If anyone at Brentano is interested, please let me know!
To find out more about Nicki Cohen and her work, head on over to her website here.
Grow Your Business at The Brentano Suite Elstree
Excitingly, our Elstree location is expanding with a brand new 2nd floor launching on 1st October — and 30% of the space is already reserved!
This new floor will offer a variety of high-spec suites, ideal for growing businesses and professional practices like Nicki Cohen Counselling.
Secure your space today and take a video tour to see how The Brentano Suite can support your business growth.