Nicky Kantura
Counselling
Specialising in maternal mental health
Hi, I'm Nicky, a fully qualified, BACP registered counsellor specialising in supporting women through pregnancy, birth and all stages of motherhood.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, low or lonely, you're not alone. Pregnancy and motherhood can be incredibly rewarding, but they can also bring anxiety, identity shifts, emotional overwhelm, relationship changes and the mental load of caring for others. For some women, the journey also includes birth trauma, fertility challenges, miscarriage, or pregnancy and baby loss.
I offer a calm, compassionate space where you can talk openly, explore your feelings, and begin to make sense of your experiences, without judgement or pressure.
As counselling progresses, many women begin to feel less overwhelmed by the emotional demands of pregnancy and motherhood. They often gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their experiences, feel more confident in their decisions, and become better able to recognise their own needs. Many also find it easier to let go of self-criticism, ask for support when they need it, and navigate challenges with greater confidence.
Whatever you're facing, counselling offers the opportunity to pause, reflect on your experiences, and build a deeper understanding of yourself. Over time, it can help you respond to the challenges of pregnancy and motherhood with greater confidence, self-compassion and support.
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About me
Experience
With over 13 years of experience in the mental health sector, I specialise in supporting women through pregnancy, birth and all stages of motherhood. I work with women experiencing anxiety, birth trauma, identity changes, pregnancy and infant loss, and the many emotional challenges that can accompany becoming a mother.
As a mum myself, I understand that motherhood can be both deeply rewarding and incredibly demanding. Having experienced postnatal anxiety, I know what it feels like to question yourself, carry constant worry, and navigate the profound changes that motherhood can bring. I also recognise that for some women, the path into motherhood includes grief through miscarriage, baby loss, fertility challenges, or a birth experience that didn't unfold as hoped.
How we can work together
As an integrative counsellor, I tailor therapy to you as an individual because every woman's experiences and circumstances are different. Rather than following a single approach, I draw on a range of therapeutic models to support your individual needs and goals.
Together, we might explore how past experiences are influencing the present, work through the anxiety, grief or trauma you're experiencing now, or simply create space for you to slow down and talk openly about what you're carrying. Therapy isn't about having all the answers; it's about giving yourself the time and space to understand your experiences and discover what you need.
The therapeutic relationship sits at the heart of my work. I aim to create a warm, trusting environment where you feel accepted, listened to and free to explore your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgement. My role isn't to tell you what to do, but to work alongside you with curiosity, compassion and care as you find a way forward that feels right for you.
Areas I can support you with
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Anxiety
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Depression
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Birth trauma
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Pregnancy and infant loss (including miscarriage, abortion and TFMR)
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Pregnancy after loss
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Fertility challenges
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Matrescence and identity changes
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Pregnancy-related challenges, including hyperemesis gravidarum (HG)
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The mental load and overwhelm
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Low self-esteem and self-confidence
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Grief and loss
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Relationship and family difficulties
Qualifications
Award in Maternal Mental Health (Oplex Careers)
Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling (Integrative) (CPCAB)
Certificate in Counselling Studies (CPCAB)
Certificate in Counselling Skills (CPCAB)
I also undertake regular CPD and training, which has included:
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Perinatal Mental Health (NHS England)
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Pregnancy and Infant Loss and Infertility Practitioner Training; and Advanced Practitioner Training (The Foundation for Infant Loss Training)
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Miscarriage Matters Specialist Training (The Foundation for Infant Loss Training)
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Supporting families through pregnancy loss and the death of a baby (Sands)
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Birth trauma (Birth Trauma Association and Make Birth Better)
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Understanding Perinatal OCD (The Pearl Institute of Perinatal Psychology)
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Understanding self-harm (Herts Mind Network)
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LGBTQ+ Awareness (Herts Mind Network)
Alongside my counselling work
Alongside my counselling work, I am involved in Root & Bloom — a collaboration with a doula offering gentle, supportive sessions for pregnancy and the postnatal period. These sessions are either in St Albans or online and focus on emotional and practical support and are separate from my counselling practice.
You can find more information about Root & Bloom on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/rootandbloomperinatalwellness/.
Contact
If you would like to book a session, or a free 20 minute consultation you can click the button at the top of the page or go to: https://calendly.com/kanturanicky
Email: kanturanicky@gmail.com
Phone: 07875 704567
Pricing
£70 per 50 minute session, payable by bank transfer.
Receive my monthly emails
Join me each month for maternal mental health insights, reflections, new blog posts and updates to help you navigate pregnancy, birth and motherhood with greater understanding and self-compassion.
FAQs
How do I book a session?
If you would like to book a session you can click the button at the top of the page, or go to https://calendly.com/kanturanicky.
What is your availability?
I work during the day Tuesday-Friday.
Where is in-person counselling based?
Sessions are at Nadya Giffen Therapies, 47a The Quadrant, Marshalswick, St Albans, AL4 9RB. 3 hours free parking is available at The Quadrant. Other areas such as Hatfield, Harpenden and Welwyn Garden City are an easy drive away.
Can I ask for adjustments or support with accessibility?
I aim to offer a counselling service that is as accessible and inclusive as reasonably possible. I recognise that everyone’s needs are different, and I welcome open conversations about any reasonable adjustments that may help you feel more comfortable accessing counselling.
Any adjustments are considered on an individual, case-by-case basis and will depend on what is appropriate, practical, and within the scope of my practice.
If you would like to discuss any accessibility needs before starting counselling, you are welcome to contact me. Any information shared will be treated with care and respect.
How do I access online counselling sessions?
I will send you a Google Meet link in advance of our sessions. If you have any problems accessing it on the day you can give me a call.
Do you only see mums?
I have experience of, and am more than happy to, work with people from any walk of life. The most important thing is that you are comfortable with me as your counsellor.
What should I expect in my first session?
The first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other. You can tell me about the areas of your life you're finding challenging and what you hope to achieve through counselling.
How long does each counselling session last?
Sessions are 50 minutes.
What are your fees?
I charge £70 per 50 minute session.
How often should I attend counselling?
Sessions are ideally weekly. However, frequency may depend on your individual needs and goals. We can discuss what works best for you during our initial meeting.
What is your cancellation policy?
I require 48 hours’ notice of cancellation of a session, otherwise the fee for the session will be charged. I may be able to offer an alternative appointment. If you arrive for the session late I will not be able to extend the length of the session due to other appointments, and you will be charged the full cost of the session.
Is counselling confidential?
Everything we discuss in our sessions will remain confidential, unless I have a concern that you are at risk or there is a risk to others.
How do I prepare for my counselling sessions?
It may be helpful to think about what you want to focus on during the session, but no formal preparation is needed. You can bring any questions or concerns you have.