Feeling not quite right

When something’s never quite felt right

Therapy for adults who learned early to manage on their own — and want a different way of relating to themselves and others.

Many of the people I work with have a sense that something has always been “not quite right,” even if they can’t point to anything obviously traumatic in their past. They may have grown up feeling emotionally unseen, unsupported, or having to manage on their own — often becoming the ones others rely on, while finding it hard to ask for help themselves.

Now, that might show up as anxiety, low self-worth, difficulty in relationships, family estrangement, or a quiet sense of being different or disconnected — even when, from the outside, life looks fine.

How does counselling work?

You'll be met with thoughtful, relational therapy — warm and unhurried. You can follow your own lead, but I'll also gently notice what's emerging, including the feelings that are harder to name.

Together, we look at how early experience shaped the ways you cope, connect, and protect yourself — and build toward a steadier, more secure relationship with yourself and others.

Two chairs in a calm, softly lit counselling room
David Houliston, counsellor

What makes this different

You'll be working with a slightly different kind of counsellor: one of the few male practitioners in this field, bringing a first-class degree and diploma in counselling alongside decades of life experience — and, as someone who grew up as a boarder and an expat child himself, a personal understanding of the long-term impact those early experiences can have.

Who this tends to suit

This work tends to suit people who want to understand themselves more deeply, are ready to look beneath the surface, and want to keep meeting regularly rather than looking for a quick fix. If that’s where you are, I’d be glad to talk.

Learn more about how attachment affects relationships

Where people often start

Some people arrive because life has changed and they’re trying to find their footing. Others come because of anxiety, relationship difficulties, or the long-term effects of boarding school. Wherever you’re starting from, these patterns often trace back to the same place — and that’s usually where we begin.

Ways of working together

Man working on laptop

Online

I offer online counselling via secure video call, so you can access support from the comfort of your own home.

It’s convenient, confidential, and just as effective as in-person sessions, whether you’re at home, at work, or travelling.

Initial consultation £60 (60 mins), counselling £50 (50 mins)

Book now
Therapy room — Chichester

In-Person

I offer in-person counselling in a quiet, comfortable space in the heart of Chichester, designed to help you feel safe and supported.

Meeting face-to-face allows for a personal connection and a calm environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings.

Initial consultation £60 (60 mins), counselling £50 (50 mins)

Book now
Dawn over sea

If any of this resonates, I’d be happy to have an initial conversation — no pressure, just a chance to see if this feels like the right fit.

Getting started with Counselling

Every journey starts with a single step.

Person stepping across stones by the water

Make an enquiry

Name

Alternatively email me at therapy@davidhoulistoncounselling.com