top of page
Free consultation

Resources

First Step Therapy
Dorset

Counselling is an incredibly valuable tool, but it is just one part of the bigger picture when it comes to your overall well-being. Your mental health is deeply connected to how you live your day-to-day life, and there are many ways to support your nervous system alongside our sessions. Whether it is nourishing your body, finding movement that feels good to you, or spending time in nature, these small, intentional choices can help build a more resilient foundation for your mental health. I’ve gathered a few local resources below that may help you on your journey.

Crisis Support

Holistic Well-being & Community Support

  • Access Wellbeing Dorset: A fantastic hub for finding local support. They have dedicated physical hubs in Poole and Weymouth, as well as community drop-in spaces across Dorchester and surrounding areas. They focus on a "whole-person" approach and can connect you with social prescribers and community groups.
     

  • Dorset Mental Health Forum: A peer-led charity based in Dorchester. They are a brilliant resource for finding peer support groups and understanding the landscape of mental health services in the county.
     

  • The Retreat (Dorset HealthCare): A safe, welcoming space for those feeling overwhelmed or approaching a crisis point. They have locations in Weymouth and Dorchester, offering peer support and a chance to talk through problems in a non-clinical environment.

Physical Activity & Nature Connections

  • Natural Choices Dorset
    This initiative is perfect for "walk and talk" or eco-therapy enthusiasts. It maps out nature-based activities across Weymouth, Portland, Poole, and West Dorset, including health walks, gardening, and outdoor mindfulness.
     

  • Dorset Wildlife Trust
    They offer wonderful guidance on connecting with nature to boost mental health. Their site is great for finding local nature reserves to visit for a quiet, restorative walk.
     

  • Nature Buddies Network
    If you feel you need a little support or companionship to get outside, this project connects people with trained volunteers who can help you build confidence in accessing green spaces across Dorset.
     

  • Dorchester Personal Training
    If you feel that movement could be a supportive part of your personal journey, you might find it helpful to connect with Dave, who works collaboratively with you to address lifestyle, fitness, and body-mind balance at your own pace.

Social & Peer Groups

  • Dorset Mind - Active in Mind
    These groups provide a low-pressure, social environment to meet others. It’s less about intense therapy and more about community, connection, and gentle activity—great for reducing isolation.
     

  • Help and Kindness
    A central point for finding small, local community groups, befriending services, and volunteer-led support across the Dorset area. It’s an excellent "catch-all" if you're looking for something specific like a local walking group or a coffee morning.

Mental Health & Emotional Regulation

  • Being Well Podcast
    Hosted by Dr. Rick Hanson and Forrest Hanson, this show provides practical, science-backed tools for emotional regulation and building resilience.
     

  • Radio Headspace
    Features short, accessible episodes that cover mindfulness and emotional regulation, making them ideal for quick daily check-ins.
     

  • Where Should We Begin? with Esther Perel
    An insightful look into relationships and human connection that is frequently recommended by therapists.
     

  • Unlocking Us with Brené Brown
    Explores vulnerability, shame, empathy, and courage through a research-based lens.

​

Resilience & Personal Growth

  • 10% Happier with Dan Harris
    Focuses on meditation and practical strategies for navigating life's challenges, blending science with personal stories.
     

  • Shapes of Resilience
    Features honest conversations about overcoming adversity, addiction recovery, and personal transformation.
     

  • No Stupid Questions
    Hosted by psychologist Angela Duckworth, this podcast uses social science research to answer life's common, complex questions in a fun and evidence-based way.
     

  • The SelfWork Podcast with Dr. Margaret Rutherford
    A resource designed to help listeners cultivate deeper self-acceptance and intentional self-love.
     

  • The Let Them Theory
    Offering a refreshing perspective on building personal autonomy by encouraging you to release the need to control others, allowing you to focus your energy on your own growth and well-being instead.

​

Grief & Finding Support

  • It’s OK That You’re Not OK
    Hosted by therapist Megan Devine, this podcast provides thoughtful, compassionate conversations about grief, boundaries, and complex mental health topics.
     

  • Therapy for Black Girls
    Dr. Joy Harden Bradford blends clinical knowledge with cultural context, making mental health topics like self-esteem and anxiety accessible and affirming.
     

Podcasts

While therapy is a unique and personal space, many of my clients find these podcasts to be helpful supplementary tools for understanding their emotions and building resilience. Please feel free to explore these resources at your own pace, and remember that everyone’s path to well-being is different.

The practitioners and resources listed here are independent providers. While I am happy to share these as potential avenues for your own exploration and holistic well-being, I encourage you to do your own research to ensure the approach and practitioner feel like the right match for your individual needs.

"Life is not a problem to be solved, but a reality to be experienced."
— Søren Kierkegaard

bottom of page