Derbyshire duo bring counselling to the local community

Just a few months after completing the Masters (MSc) in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy (ICP), course-mates Lucy Harris and Andy Butterton, launched their business, Green Lane Counselling and Psychotherapy (GLCP), in Derby.

The duo, who formed a friendship while studying on the Masters course, felt that there was a need for a high quality professional counselling service in Derby that was affordable and accessible to the local community and surrounding areas.

At the end of 2013, GLCP was set up. Lucy and Andy currently have three counsellors working at the practice but have plans to expand over the next year, with the opening of a second consultation room.

The pair will graduate at the University’s Award Ceremonies, at Derby Arena, tomorrow (January 16).

Speaking about his upcoming graduation and the opening of the Derbyshire practice, Andy said: “Graduating feels like the end of a long journey of self-discovery and exploration. It also feels like the beginning of something new and exciting and I’m looking forward to developing our psychotherapy service and seeing where it takes us.

“We cannot emphasise enough the importance of mental health, not just for the individual concerned, but the effect it has on friends and family, the wider community and the local economy.

“Lucy and I have met some great people on the course, been inspired by the tutors and made friendships which I hope will be long lasting.”

Around 3,400 graduates who studied at the University of Derby's seven Colleges – covering education, health and social care, business, life and natural sciences, engineering and technology, the arts; and law, humanities and social sciences – and almost 12,000 family, friends and other guests will attend the three days of the Awards Ceremonies from January 14 to 16 at the new Derby Arena in Pride Park.