Sasha Puente

Hi, I’m Sasha Puente - a qualified and compassionate counsellor dedicated to helping individuals and couples navigate life’s challenges. I hold a Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling, a PGDip in Psychology, and a BSc in Human Sciences, alongside further training in Couples Counselling. As a registered member of the BACP, I offer a warm, ethical, and non-judgmental space where clients can feel supported and heard. My academic background gives me a multidisciplinary understanding of human behaviour, shaped by both science and the humanities, with particular interest in identity, attachment, and cognitive patterns. I primarily work from a psychodynamic perspective, helping clients explore how past experiences may influence present difficulties - not to assign blame, but to bring insight and clarity. I also integrate solution-focused techniques to support goal-setting and positive change. My personal and professional experiences have deepened my commitment to this work, and I aim to create a space where you feel truly seen, understood and accepted. We will discuss whatever you would like to bring each session - I am here to create a safe space to help facilitate your self-exploration and to support you in gaining greater self-awareness and empowerment to change. I have experience with clients from many different cultures and backgrounds and many different presenting issues - for instance: -bereavement -anxiety and social anxiety -depression -childhood trauma, including sexual and psychological abuse -challenging family dynamics -finding meaning/purpose in life -navigating life with autism or ADHD -eating disorders -relationship issues, intimacy/sexual issues also -communication difficulties And many more Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, unsure where to start, or just curious about how counselling can help, I'm here to support you from the very start. You don't have to do this alone. Please feel free to get in touch by email/text/phone call and we can arrange a chat to discuss how to work together and whether I'm the right fit for what you need. I offer both in-person face-to-face sessions (from a site with easy access from Manchester, Bury and Bolton), and online/telephone sessions. You can also opt for a combination of these if preferred, to suit your schedule. And just to say a little about online therapy - some people are new to it, or unsure at first, which is completely understandable. But it can actually offer a lot of flexibility and comfort. You don’t have to factor in travel time, parking, or waiting rooms, and that can make it easier to fit sessions into your life, especially if you have a busy schedule or any mobility or health considerations. Some clients also feel more relaxed being in their own environment, and that it helps them open up a little more freely. We’d also be using a secure, encrypted platform that you’re comfortable with. You can also find out more information about how we can work together at www.octaviatherapy.co.uk.