The Whole Works — Counsellor in Edinburgh, Scotland

I am so glad I decided to attend the Whole Works, and would wholeheartedly encourage anyone who is struggling, to take that first step and reach out. My psychotherapist, Kate Whitehead, has been truly exceptional. Showing up with empathy and professional expertise with every session. I initially wanted to jump right into EMDR, but Kate recommended starting with Trauma & Tension Releasing Exercises (TRE), which allowed my nervous system to properly stabilise first. This is a great example of the professional safeguarding I received under Kate’s care, as building regulation first meant I could approach EMDR safely, with the resilience needed for deeper processing. With sessions I never felt rushed or invalidated, and the progression felt thoughtful and carefully tailored to me. My journey with the Whole Works has been transformative. The difference in my sense of calm and inner stability from when I first walked through the door, to where I am now, is a huge milestone that I am so grateful for. Thank you!

I had a very bad experience here with a therapist who said some completely out-of-order things, which shocked the next therapist I went on to see. Having ending my therapeutic relationship with this therapist, when I called in to try and speak to someone about it, I effectively got an "we'll call you back" and never heard from them again. If other people have had positive experiences that's great, but it's definitely not for everyone. To your reply: Weird response from you. The therapist was S.W. (I won't out them as you are attempting to do with me, strange behaviour from a therapist Rob) who not only tried to push onto me their beliefs in fringe Eckhart Tolle-influenced New Age physics, they also referred to my race in laughably unprofessional ways and the therapeutic relationship ended when they ghosted me for over a month. If you press me I'll happily put screenshots up in an edit. I have since made peace with my own inability to end a therapeutic relationship that wasn't working for me, but at the time I made the mistake of blindly trusting that all therapists would abide by some kind of standard. I originally excluded these details, but your reply has irked me, and it's strange you didn't bother to ring back when I had a negative experience, but you can write a snarky reply casting my review in bad faith to try save face in a public forum. You should definitely have a record of me being there and ongoing for quite a while. Anyways now you should be able to piece it together, feel free to get in touch privately if you want to apologise.

“I’ve been coming to The Whole Works for 3 years after a major life crisis, and it was the best decision I ever made. Making that first call was the hardest part, but from the moment I walked in, I felt safe, comfortable, and supported. The assessment process was excellent, helping me find the right therapist for me. If you’re hesitant about starting therapy, take the leap — you’ll be in safe hands here.”

I came to the Whole Works at a very low point and they helped me to heal and get back on track. Located just off the royal mile, the environment itself is tucked away and feels like a safe haven. They ensure you receive therapy suited to you and try to match you with a therapist who you can work well with. Mine in particular was fantastic. This aspect was really refreshing. Can’t recommend them enough.

A friend recommended this Centre years ago and I wish I'd gone sooner. The Whole Works completely changed my lifelong belief that therapy and mind-body treatments are a waste of money and time. I cannot believe I ever thought this! I went from being hugely sceptical to discovering new ways to sense, feel and talk about my life. The Centre always feels calm and welcoming. The people are present and authentic in themselves and towards you. They make you feel it matters to them whether or not you show up. You feel this in each moment of greeting and parting. The building feels old and deeply cared for, sort of nestled right down into the City's heart. Rooms are scattered with beautiful eclectic artwork, unusual objects and plants, cosy furniture and old stone fireplaces. Everything feels carefully chosen and gently evocative. The assessment option helped me find the right therapist for me. Prior to contacting the Whole Works I had tried a few one off appointments with therapists elsewhere. None felt like the right fit. It was like trying to find a needle in a haystack (without quite knowing what I was looking for). The therapist who did my assessment was very kind, easy to talk to and spoke through options that took on board everything I said. I felt no pressure whatsoever to make a decision. This caring, honest and open approach helped me trust the Centre enough to start therapy. The Whole Works profoundly changed my life for the better. I am more able to identify my emotions, connect with my body, feel less anxious, have better relationships, take risks, cope when I feel down etc. Most of all I have a new sense of Self that is impossible to describe but makes me feel more alive. The team is hugely varied in backgrounds, interests, training and approaches to well-being. They clearly understand there is no one size fits all. Whether something seems big or small, or you simply want time out for self care, The Whole Works truly is a shelter from life’s storms.

The Whole Works and the team are incredible. The team are always welcoming and flexible and I feel I can go there without any judgement. It truly provides a safe space for those who need it and many different holistic services. The waiting room is comfortable and has a reassuring poem by Hafiz which travels across the ceiling which I always read. I couldn’t recommend the WW more, and thanks to the team for all their work!

There are really no words that can do justice in describing this special space. To begin with, Whole Works was the first place in my life I'd experienced such a wholesome and grounding sense of safety. From the moment you enter, you are received so warmly, and you are led to this beatiful, sacred room that has been so lovingly arranged. And in the silence of that space that they have curated so delicately and thoughtfully, you can feel the tension in your body begin to ease. I would lose all sense of time in that room. I could sit there for hours. I felt safe. It was a safety I'd never tasted before, and one I'd look for again in vain in other places. Truly, there is something very special and holistic about the space . Being received in this special way breathes life back into your tired, hopeless self, and suddenly, you feel you have it in you to try again. Every hour in that space is an hour I'll never forget. You are incredibly blessed if you have the chance to experience this space, and to begin the long journey of healing with people there who work with all their heart. Believe me, you are very lucky if fate leads you to this place.

Finding it was a little difficult, to this day I sometimes go down the wrong close. Truthfully, the first time I saw the narrow grey close, it made me a little nervous…I even stood at the wrong door for a minute… and yet when I finally entered the building, I found a beautiful space filled with comfort and light, a world apart from the hustle that surrounds it. I think finding the Whole Works mirrors my experience of starting therapy here...I was unsure, nervous, confused and I was welcomed into a safe, peaceful space that allowed me to step into myself. I couldn't recommend it enough but I also kinda want to keep it a secret.

Can't recommend The Whole Works highly enough. Tucked away in a close off the Royal Mile, it's a genuine haven of healing and tranquility in the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town. The building has been beautifully restored and is as warm and welcoming as the wonderful staff. I've been going to The Whole Works for many years and, whether for mind, body or a blend of both, I always sing its praises to friends and family. If ever a place has "good vibes", this is it!

I've been going to the Whole Works for over 20 years, and I can't speak highly enough of them. When you arrive, you're greeted with warm smiles and friendly faces – everyone there is kind and welcoming. I first came to the Whole Works to start therapy that gave me patient, steady, caring support and truly transformed my life. Over the years, as I've faced different challenges, I've always had warm and professional care that's helped me not just cope, but become stronger. It's hard to put into words how much the help I've received has meant to me. From my long experience, I can say with confidence that at the Whole Works you'll be in excellent hands. The quality of care they provide is exceptional, and I wholeheartedly recommend them.