Johanna Hopkins Counselling

21/10/2025

Working With Clay
Therapy isn’t always about talking. I offer a range of creative approaches to help explore emotions and experiences in different ways - one of these is working with clay.

Clay can be a powerful way to explore emotions. Whether it’s gently molding, firmly shaping, or even giving it a good punch, the process can help release feelings and tension held in the body.

The tactile nature of clay encourages mindfulness, reduces stress, and helps bring buried emotions to the surface. It can also foster self-awareness and insight as clients notice what emerges through the creative process.

10/10/2025

World Mental Health Day – 10th October

Today is a reminder of the importance of good mental health.

This year’s theme — “Access to services: Mental health in catastrophes and emergencies” — highlights the challenges people face in protecting their wellbeing during times of crisis, or global instability.

In such moments, access to the right support can make all the difference. Let’s continue to advocate for better mental health services, greater compassion, and safe spaces for everyone who needs them.

06/10/2025

A lovely day for Walk and Talk therapy.
(though I’m out in all but the most extreme weather!)

Being outdoors can have various benefits in therapy:
• Fresh air & movement - A gentle walk together can help can help reduce stress and ease anxiety.
• Natural flow of conversation - Many people find it easier to open up while walking side by side.
• Connection with nature - The Sussex countryside and coast offer calming, grounding spaces that support emotional wellbeing.
• Boosts mood & energy - Being outdoors and active can lift your spirits and bring clarity of thought.
• A different perspective - A change of scenery can sometimes bring a fresh outlook on challenges you’re facing.

I offer Walk and Talk therapy in and around Steyning and Worthing.

Contact me: by phone, text or WhatsApp 07990 457232 or via Counselling Directory:
https://www.counselling-directory.org.uk/counsellors/johanna-hopkins?_gl=1%2A1wadtz0%2A_up%2AMQ..%2A_ga%2ANzk1MDIyODczLjE3NTk3NTE5NTk.%2A_ga_BMWGCG64PD%2AczE3NTk3NTE5NTgkbzEkZzEkdDE3NTk3NTE5NzEkajQ3JGwwJGgw

01/10/2025

October is ADHD Awareness Month.

ADHD is often thought of as a childhood condition, but many adults live with ADHD too. It can impact work, home, and relationships — from staying on top of tasks to managing emotions. Over time, these challenges may lead to stress or low self-esteem, but support and understanding can make a real difference.

Therapy can provide a safe space in which to better understand yourself, build strategies to deal with your challenges, and find ways to thrive in daily life and relationships.

24/09/2025

Today is National Fitness Day – a gentle reminder that moving our bodies is one of the simplest and most effective ways we can support our mental health.

Exercise releases feel-good chemicals in the brain, improves sleep, and can boost confidence. Even small moments of movement can lift your mood, ease stress, and bring a sense of calm. It also offers time to pause, reconnect with yourself, and restore balance in your day.

Fitness doesn’t have to look the same for everyone. It could be going to the gym or playing a sport; also going for a walk, dancing in the kitchen, or gardening. The best kind of movement is the one that feels good for you.

21/09/2025

Today is World Alzheimer's Day. No one should have to face Alzheimer’s alone. Support is available:

Alzheimer's Society — practical help and information

Dementia UK — emotional support and guidance from dementia specialist nurses

Alzheimer's Research UK — research and resources for understanding

Counselling can also provide a safe space to talk, process feelings, and find support at your own pace. 💙

www.counselling-directory.org.uk

Please share this post, you never know who might need these reminders and resources today.

10/09/2025

Today is World Su***de Prevention Day.

Here are some thoughts on how to look after yourself or support someone who might be at risk.

And for anyone who needs support:

*Samaritans - 116 123
24 hours a day, 365 days a year

*National Su***de Prevention Helpline UK -
0800 689 5652
(6pm to midnight every day)

* CALM - 0800 58 58 58
(5pm–midnight every day)

* PAPYRUS UK - for prevention of young su***de (under 35) - Hopeline247 - 0800 068 4141

Shout - Text SHOUT to 85258

*If you or someone else is in immediate danger call 999*

01/09/2025

05/08/2025

Very sad to hear that Worthing has experienced two su***des in the same location within just a few days — the very place where we held the first Worthing Mental Health Expo in 2023.

If you or someone you know is struggling, please don’t suffer in silence. Help is available. We’ve reattached the link to local organisations and support services — please reach out if you need support

https://worthingmentalhealth.co.uk/getting-help/

14/07/2025

Time to refill that cup

P.S. search 'self-care' on our website for lots of tips and ideas for how

07/07/2025

*Neurodiversity & Hot Weather*

Working with neurodiverse clients, including those who are autistic, or have ADHD or sensory processing differences, I am aware that some experience heightened heat sensitivity or heat intolerance.

I aim to be flexible in scheduling counselling sessions, perhaps for later in the day or another day when it is cooler.
............................
Heat sensitivity can look like:
- Sensory overload from sticky clothes, bright light, or overheating;
- More frequent meltdowns or shutdowns, especially in children;
- Difficulty with executive functioning (focus, memory, routines);
- Increased fatigue or emotional dysregulation;
- Disrupted routines (e.g. school or support closures) can create even more stress or anxiety.

Support Yourself or a Neurodivergent Loved One:
- Create a cool, quiet, low-stimulation space;
- Stick to familiar routines where possible;
- Use cooling aids (cold packs, fans, breathable clothing);
- Offer or ask for extra patience and flexibility;
- Validate feelings: it makes sense that this feels harder right now.

Counselling can be a supportive space to explore how environmental stressors like heatwaves impact your unique experience.

30/06/2025

Hot Weather and Mental Health
Hot weather can affect our mood and energy, and our sleep.

You may experience:
- Increased irritability, anxiety, or low mood;
- Difficulty sleeping that leaves you feeling drained or overwhelmed;
- Difficulty focusing, feeling forgetful or more emotionally reactive.
- For those already living with anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions, the heat can make symptoms feel more intense or harder to manage.
- Some medications – such as SSRIs and antipsychotics - can reduce the body’s ability to cool down making it especially important to stay aware.

* Stay hydrated (and avoid alcohol or caffeine)
* Keep your space cool (use fans or shades; keep curtains closed during the day)
* Prioritize rest
* Reach out, as connection can make a huge difference during difficult days.