At The Business Centre in Barry, we’re proud to work alongside a diverse range of professionals, many of whom are quietly transforming their communities. In this edition of our Meet the Customer series, we sat down with one of our newest business residents, Kirsten Hobbs, founder of Clarity Counselling, specialising in psychotherapy, trauma informed practice, couples therapy, and more.
A Calling Rooted in Compassion
Kirsten’s counselling journey began two decades ago.
“I began my counselling qualification in 2005 and qualified with my counselling diploma in 2009.
“It was a very enjoyable four years with plenty of hard work along the way, as well as meeting great peers and having fantastic learning opportunities.”
That training shaped her deeply.
“It increased my self-awareness, gave me a professional skill set, and enhanced an already high level of compassion for people who find life difficult.”
From Community Care Worker to Counsellor: Building Clarity Counselling
During her studies, Kirsten took on the role of volunteer counsellor for four years, all while working full-time as a community care worker. After qualifying, she continued offering voluntary support, and in 2012, she established her private practice alongside part-time domiciliary care work.
“I knew from a very young age that I wanted to help people, and becoming a professional counsellor felt like the natural progression from physical, hands-on work as a care worker. I knew I wanted to work with people on a deeper level, helping to make a difference to their mental health and general well being.”
“Come as You Are”: Person-Centred Therapy With Trauma Informed Practice
Today, Clarity Counselling offers individual counselling, psychotherapy, and couples therapy for adults (18+), integrating trauma informed practice into her work. Sessions are available face-to-face, by telephone, online, or even at home upon request and agreement.
Kirsten’s approach is person-centred and relational, but flexible enough to draw on multiple therapeutic styles, such as psychodynamic, CBT, and deep existential roots.
“I believe it’s vital for people to have a safe space where they can feel heard, accepted, and valued which enables them to explore, process, reflect or reframe, and better understand themselves and the world they live in, which often brings many difficulties and challenges.”
“I am able to tailor therapy to meet each individual’s needs and preference. “There isn’t one size that fits all. We are unique individuals, and this is very welcomed within my practice. Come as you are.”
The Power of Equal Partnership in Therapy
For many clients, the counselling room feels intimidating at first. Kirsten understands this dynamic.
“Many people initially see me as the ‘expert,’ and whilst I have extensive training and vast experience, I believe the individual is the expert on their own life.”
“I make it very clear in the counselling room that we are equals. Acceptance increases self-worth and lowers distress, and having a counsellor walk alongside you, with no judgement, can be incredibly powerful.”
Counselling That Creates Space to Be Heard and Seen
That sense of equality matters to Kirsten:
“This approach enables individuals to find their own answers and regain their sense of self, or even discover it for the first time, through deep reflection and exploration, when given the space to truly be and feel accepted.”
She finds enormous satisfaction in witnessing growth, clarity, and relief.
“I absolutely love working alongside people, helping them to understand themselves more and gain insight, which so often leads to an alleviation of pain and distress.”
Finding Passion in Psychotherapy
Kirsten always knew the direction she was heading.
“From a young adult, I knew I wanted to train in psychology or psychotherapy. I chose psychotherapy, it brings me such enjoyment.”
Witnessing Change: The Heart of Counselling
While Kirsten has no plans for dramatic expansion, she sees ongoing growth through deep work with clients.
“I am very happy with my practice, and it’s been wonderful to have worked with so many people over the years, men, women, and couples, and to see the benefit that counselling has had on their lives.”
Healing Childhood Trauma & More: Therapy That Moves at Your Pace
She adds that therapy is not a quick fix:
“Therapy isn’t a magic cure, it is a place to start from. To just ‘be’ and begin to untangle and unpack whatever you feel you need to.”
That may include childhood or adult trauma, anxiety, fear, addiction, relationship challenges, grief, uncertainty, and more. Sometimes, the starting point is even less clear:
“Sometimes people can feel something isn’t quite right, but can’t place their finger on it. I can help those who struggle to pinpoint their emotions, as well as psychological or physical turmoil.”
Together, clients work at a pace that feels safe.
Expertise in Trauma Informed Practice, Childhood Trauma, & Complex PTSD
Professional development remains central to Kirsten’s work.
“I complete monthly CPD courses and research within the psychotherapy field. This keeps me updated and working to the best of my ability, ensuring an ethical and informed practice.”
She welcomes all presenting issues, but notes an interest in trauma informed practice, childhood trauma, and complex PTSD.
“I don’t specialise in a specific area, I’ve always felt it’s important to welcome everyone to therapy, regardless of their presenting issue. Often, what brings someone to therapy leads to something completely different. That said, I’ve also completed extensive research and training in trauma-informed practice, childhood trauma, and complex PTSD.”
How The Business Centre Transformed Kirsten’s Office Space
In April 2025, Kirsten moved her practice to a dedicated office space here at The Business Centre after many years working from a community centre and clinic setting.
The transition has transformed her work environment.
“I needed my own space to enhance, personalise and create that warm environment for clients to feel safe and comfortable.”
“Having my own office at The Business Centre brings great freedom and flexibility, as well as ease for seeing a diverse range of clients. There is wheelchair access, friendly reception staff, refreshments, a café, and exceptional restroom facilities — not to forget trouble-free parking. Such a bonus!”
“Altogether, it brings a great feel and vibe for potential and existing clients.”
The convenient business location supports her client-base from Barry, Sully, Dinas Powys, Penarth, Wenvoe, and neighbouring areas.
“For me it’s a great location. And I’ve found it suits current clients well.”
The In-House Gym Advantage
There’s plenty she enjoys about being based here.
“I enjoy the freedom of having my own serviced office space and not having to check to see if rooms are free when I need them.”
And there’s a well-loved perk:
“I love the on-site gym and use this regularly.”
From day one, the feeling has been right.
“I have been made to feel very welcomed at The Business Centre and believe I made the right decision in basing my practice here.”
Connect with Clarity Counselling
If you’re ready to talk, reflect, or simply begin, you can find Kirsten here:
🌐 claritycounselling12.co.uk
📧 [email protected]
A Place to Be Heard, Valued, & Supported: Trauma Informed Practice
At its heart, Clarity Counselling is about giving people the space to feel safe, heard, and valued. That’s something we believe in too. By choosing The Business Centre, Kirsten has found a home that reflects her mission — a welcoming, accessible, and flexible environment where clients can begin their journey toward better mental health. Together, we’re building a community where businesses can flourish and where support is always within reach.