Big Love For Therapy On The Border

Meet Sadie Kightley, the founder of Therapy On The Border

Sadie Kightley is the founder of Therapy On The Border, offering therapy for adults through face-to-face sessions, online therapy and her much-loved Walk and Talk therapy.

As a qualified psychotherapist and member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, Sadie is passionate about creating safe, supportive spaces for individuals to explore their thoughts and emotions. Her approach is client-centred and fully personalised, helping each client navigate life’s challenges with compassion and care.

With a strong professional background, including work with Women’s Aid, young people in local authority care, volunteering for community organisations and university counselling, Sadie brings deep experience and empathy to her practice. She studied at the University of Liverpool, where she honed her expertise in human behaviour and psychological processes, and she continues to expand her training to address a wide range of mental health issues.

Her areas of support include:

  • Stress, anxiety, and depression
  • Relationship challenges
  • Trauma and grief
  • OCD and addiction
  • Domestic abuse
    …and more.

A special passion: Eco-Therapy
Sadie is particularly enthusiastic about eco-therapy, an umbrella term for nature-based approaches to counselling. Her Walk and Talk Therapy allows clients to connect with nature, easing the intensity of a traditional therapy room. Many clients find it less intimidating and it supports both emotional and physical wellbeing, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. Sessions can also include forms of meditation if desired. These sessions are 50 minutes long and available in areas such as Powys and across the Shropshire border.

As part of Big Love For Small Business we asked Sadie the following questions …

Why did you start your business?
“I’ve always wanted to be self-employed and have had a passion for human psychology since completing my degree in 2012. During lockdown in 2020, I decided to train as a counsellor and loved it. Having received therapy myself after my dad passed away, I knew how powerful it could be and wanted to help others in the same way. After having my little girl in 2024, going into private practice felt like the perfect way to balance work and family life.”

What motivates you to keep going?
“My amazing clients – their resilience, their stories, and the changes they make inspire me every single day. I learn so much from them. Plus, I want to be a great role model for my daughter, showing her that you can love your job and help people at the same time.”

What challenges have you faced as a business owner?
“I definitely find marketing challenging, as it’s not an area I naturally understand. Juggling work around childcare can be tough too but being self-employed gives me the flexibility I need.”

What are you most proud of?
“Every client win fills me with pride. Those ‘light bulb moments’ are amazing to witness. I also love my little counselling room at home, it’s such a calm and peaceful space.”

What advice would you give someone starting their own business?
“Don’t underestimate how much hard work it takes but it’s worth every bit of it. Have good boundaries, know when to switch off, and put self-care near the top of your to-do list.”

What do you love to do in your free time?
“Spending time with my family and friends, walking my border collie, reading, and watching True Crime or Below Deck.”

What do you love most about the Women Who Business Community?
“I’ve only just joined, but I already love the idea of meeting like-minded local women. I’m really looking forward to the meetings!”

Ways to get in touch with Sadie …

You can also follow her on Facebook and Instagram

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