Counselling for Sight Loss and Life’s Challenges

Donna French is a qualified counsellor who specialises in counselling for sight loss, offering compassionate support to those navigating the emotional and practical challenges it can bring. Having lived with sight loss herself since her twenties, Donna has first-hand experience of the adjustments—emotional, practical, and psychological—required when facing such a life-changing event. This personal journey has given her a unique insight into resilience, adaptation, and personal growth, all of which she brings into her counselling practice.

Before training as a counsellor, Donna worked in administrative roles within educational settings, supporting students, parents, and young mothers as they navigated difficult circumstances. Whether helping a teenager through personal struggles, assisting parents to advocate for their children, or guiding young mums in challenging situations, she found the most rewarding part of her work was offering understanding, empathy, and practical support.

Donna’s professional and personal life has also been shaped by years of supporting individuals facing a variety of challenges, including alcohol dependency, bipolar disorder, bereavement, and sight loss. Many told her they felt more heard, valued, and understood by her than by other professionals they had worked with. This feedback, combined with her own experiences of overcoming obstacles, led her to pursue a career in counselling.

While Donna’s primary specialism is counselling for sight loss, helping clients adjust to changes, manage emotions, and maintain independence, she also works with:

• Low mood and depression – exploring feelings and developing coping strategies to improve emotional well-being.
• Relationship breakdowns – supporting individuals through separation, divorce, or loss of a significant relationship.
• Substance use within the family – offering understanding and support to those affected by a loved one’s addiction.
• Bipolar disorder – supporting those living with bipolar disorder, or impacted by a loved one’s diagnosis.
• Bereavement – providing compassionate support through the grieving process.

How Donna Works
Donna understands that reaching out for help can feel daunting, especially when friends or family may not fully understand. She offers a safe, confidential space where you can explore your feelings without fear of judgement, pressure, or unwanted advice.

Her approach is person-centred, non-directive and led by your needs, focusing on your experiences, emotions, and goals. Donna believes that everyone has the ability to create meaningful change, and with the right support, healing and growth are possible. Whether you’re adjusting to life with sight loss, coping with current difficulties, or working through unresolved issues from the past, she will work alongside you at your own pace, helping you find your way forward.

Taking the first step toward counselling can feel daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. Whilst Donna has particular experience in certain areas, she understands that everyone’s struggles are unique. Whatever challenges you may be facing, she is here to provide a supportive and non-judgemental space to help you navigate your personal journey. If you’re ready to explore how therapy could help, Donna offers a free 10-minute consultation to discuss your needs and determine whether working together is the right fit.

Qualifications

• CPCAB L4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling
• CPCAB L3 Certificate in Counselling Studies
• CPCAB L2 Certificate in Counselling Skills
• TQUK Level 2 Certificate in Awareness of Mental Health Problems

Availability

• Available day and evening, Monday – Saturday
  • Session days and times can be flexible 
• Cost per session:
  • £55 face-to-face at Cherry Tree Therapy Centre IG9 6EU (nearest public transport Roding Valley underground station)£45 Online and telephone
  • Low-cost prices are available upon request for clients on a low income and students

If you’d like to find out how counselling with Donna could help you, get in touch today by completing the form below or book a call.