About The Lochs
At the heart of our work is the belief that everyone should have access to quality counselling, regardless of their financial circumstances. We recognise that the cost of therapy can often be a barrier to seeking support, which is why we are committed to providing affordable counselling services that help make mental health support accessible to as many people as possible.
We believe that no one should have to face life's challenges alone, and our mission is to ensure that professional counselling support is available to everyone who needs it.
We offer a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental environment where individuals can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Our aim is to empower people to better understand themselves, develop resilience, improve their wellbeing, and work towards meaningful and lasting positive change.
The Lochs counselling services supports adults, children, and young people, offering help with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, stress, low self esteem, bereavement, trauma, relationship difficulties, family challenges, and significant life transitions. We understand that reaching out for support can feel difficult, and we strive to create a welcoming and supportive experience from the very first contact.
Our counselling sessions are available to those in the Fife area, both in person and online, providing flexibility to meet the diverse needs of our clients. We work to ensure that support is available in a way that feels accessible and convenient for each individual. All of our counsellors are qualified, experienced, and committed to providing high- quality therapeutic support. Our work is guided by the ethical frameworks of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and the Confederation of Scottish Counselling Agencies (COSCA), ensuring that clients receive a professional, ethical, and client-centred service.
As a community-focused organisation, The Lochs is dedicated to reducing barriers to mental health support and helping people across Fife access the counselling they need, when they need it. We believe that good mental health is fundamental to individual and community wellbeing, and we are proud to play a role in supporting healthier, more connected communities throughout Fife.
Meet The Team
Emma Nichols
Co-Founder
Emma is Co-Founder of The Lochs and is passionate about creating accessible, compassionate, and person-centred mental health support within the Fife community.
With a background in counselling, training and education, and supporting individuals through life's challenges, Emma has worked with people experiencing a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, stress, bereavement, relationship difficulties, trauma, low self-esteem, and significant life transitions. Her approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and the belief that every person has the capacity for growth and positive change when provided with the right support.
As Co-Founder of The Lochs, Emma is committed to ensuring that counselling services are accessible, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of the local community. They are passionate about reducing barriers to mental health support and creating a safe, welcoming environment where individuals can feel heard, understood, and valued.
Outside of their professional role, Emma values family, community, and personal wellbeing. They believe that meaningful relationships and genuine human connection are at the heart of both personal growth and effective counselling practice.
"I believe everyone deserves the opportunity to be heard and supported. The Lochs was founded with the vision of providing a safe and compassionate space where people can explore their challenges, build resilience, and move towards a more fulfilling future.”
Kay Heath
Co-Founder
Kay has a genuine passion for mental health and wellbeing which is foundational to her role as a counsellor. Studying Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy from diploma to degree level has allowed her to develop a compassionate, therapeutic approach, and she continues to develop her practice through ongoing CPD training.
With experience spanning counselling, mental health support, and careers guidance, Kay brings a rounded, human understanding of the challenges individuals face. She has supported those struggling with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma-related difficulties, work-related stress, and life and relationship transitions.
Alongside direct client work, Kay has held management roles within counselling services and other organisations, combining practical leadership with a hands-on commitment to quality care. As co-founder of The Lochs, she is passionate about providing accessible and affordable counselling, enabling individuals to access the support they need.
At the heart of Kay's approach is a belief that every individual deserves to be heard, valued, and supported without judgement. She is dedicated to creating a warm, empathetic environment where people feel safe to explore their thoughts and feelings, and works to ensure that mental health provision is delivered with the highest standards of compassion and person-centred practice.
Outside her working life, Kay enjoys spending time with family and friends, dog walking in the countryside, and travelling when she can. She believes that a good work-life balance is crucial to healthy wellbeing.
Janette White
Treasurer
I’m proud to be a Trustee of a charity dedicated to providing counselling and emotional support to people when they need it most.
As a Mum and Nana, with a background in childcare, caring for and supporting others has always been an important part of my life. Having received counselling myself, I also understand first-hand the difference that having someone to listen, without judgement, can make.
As a Trustee, I’m passionate about helping ensure that our charity continues to provide a safe, welcoming and supportive service to everyone who needs it. I feel privileged to be part of an organisation that can make such a positive difference to people’s lives
Kirsty Dean
Trustee
I’m Kirsty and I grew up in Fife. I love art and being outdoors, especially sketching and walking. Following a bereavement midlife and receiving counselling, I retrained to become a counsellor, understanding the impact this support can give others.
I am passionate about accessibility and affirming counselling for all. In my own private practice, I specialise in neuro-affirming and outdoor therapy. Within my trustee role my focus will be to support accessible and affirming counselling within The Lochs and safeguarding clients using our services.