The Changing Room
The Changing Room
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A space to find your
way forward
Counselling, sporting wellbeing and a supportive community in Widnes & online
Everyone has a story. Everyone needs somewhere to tell it.
Life can bring moments of change, uncertainty, loss, pressure and transition. Sometimes we need space to make sense of what's happening, to be heard without judgement, or simply to find a way forward.
The Changing Room creates that space — through counselling and psychotherapy, sporting wellbeing and transition, men's support and shared learning.
COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY
Professional, person-centred support for individuals experiencing life's challenges, changes and difficult experiences.
PLAYER WELLBEING & TRANSITION
Supporting wellbeing, identity, transition, family and future throughout the sporting journey and beyond.
MEN'S GROUP & SUICIDE AWARENES
A space for men to connect, talk openly and find support, while encouraging greater awareness and conversation around suicide.
About
Counselling
Good emotional health is essential for our overall wellbeing and our ability to navigate life’s challenges. Sometimes, you may know exactly what’s troubling you, while other times, things may simply feel “off.” We offer a confidential space where you can explore your concerns, reflect on your thoughts and feelings, and gain clarity. You will be listened to with care, free from judgment, and supported on your unique journey.
By working with us, you may develop a deeper understanding and acceptance of yourself, which can profoundly impact how you relate to life, yourself, and others. This process can help you overcome challenges, foster positive change, and move toward a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Meet the Team
The Changing Room is a collective of ex professional sportsmen who have retrained as counsellors and teamed up to offer the benefit of their combined lived experiences and skills for those members of the community, from any walk of life, who realise they need help but are not sure where to turn.
We have created The Changing Room as a space you can call upon when life feels tough, heavy or challenging and our purpose is simple, we will be there with you as a source of support, growth and healing for as long as you need.
We understand that your journey to achieving change is such a personal one and will ensure you receive the appropriate empathy, professionalism and human connection to get you there.
Rich Wilkinson
Person-Centred Counsellor
Person-centred counselling is my chosen theory in counselling practice. Creating a relationship and environment where the client feels safe to share and grow, offering compassion, empathy and understanding along the journey that we take together.
Specialisms I bring to The Changing Room are: -Trauma, Bereavement, Self-Harm and Sexual and Emotional Abuse gained through my work with high school pupils and Depression, Anxiety, Low Self-Confidence and Stress, gained from general private practice work.
Qualifying in and focussing on purely Person-Centred sessions, means my work is heavily empathic and client lead. We start with where you ARE and work out the rest together. I am deeply passionate about being able to add my skills and experience to The Changing Room for the benefit of our future clients.
Qualifications
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BSc Honors - Person-Centred Counselling - Derby University
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Level 4 - Certificate in Counselling Studies - CPCAB
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Level 3 - Certificate in Counselling Skills - CPCAB
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Level 2 - Certificate in counselling skills - CPCAB
Sean Hessey
Integrative Counsellor
After 20 years as a professional football player and experiencing an environment where it was seen as a weakness to be vulnerable, I decided to pursue a career where I can help individuals bring about effective change and enhance their wellbeing.
My background includes supporting clients with stress and anxiety, relationship and family conflicts, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. As a parent, I bring a compassionate and understanding approach to my work, recognising the challenges of balancing personal, professional, and family responsibilities. I am skilled in helping people develop effective coping strategies, build resilience, and enhance their overall wellbeing and performance.
Qualifications
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BSc (Hons) Psychotherapy & Counselling MBACP
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Level 4 - Diploma in Counselling & Psychotherapy
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Level 3 - Diploma in Counselling
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Level 2 - Certificate in Counselling Skills
Shaun Fallon
Currently Qualifying as Integrative Counsellor
Returned to education in 2022 to commence counselling qualifications. Currently qualified to Diploma in (Level 4) counselling and about
to finish a Foundation Degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy (Level 5) in June 2026.
Will commence top up year study to achieve BSC in Counselling (Level 6) in September 2026.
Commenced personal therapy in 2023 (as part of degree course) which allowed me to work through 30yrs of unprocessed trauma from being a deselected footballer and gain a greater understanding of other areas of my life that this had affected.
Keen to add training and skills to The Changing Room offering once qualified towards the end of 2026.
Qualifications
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Level 4 Psychotherapy & Counselling
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Diploma in Life Coaching
Common myths in counselling
Common Questions
Counselling is only for people with serious mental health issues.
Counselling is for anyone facing challenges, stress, or life changes—it's a valuable resource for personal growth and wellbeing, not just for those with severe conditions.
Seeking counselling means you are weak.
Reaching out for support demonstrates courage and self-awareness. It takes strength to ask for help and invest in your own wellbeing.
Counsellors will tell you what to do or fix your problems for you.
Counsellors guide you in exploring your feelings and options, empowering you to make your own decisions and find solutions that work for you.
Contact Us
Kingsway House,Caldwell Road
Widnes, Liverpool WA8 7EA
07590 382449
