About me

Close-up of smiling elderly man with gray hair, glasses, wearing a black zip-up jacket and striped shirt, against a gradient gray background.

David Houliston

My approach is humanistic, which means I focus on you, your experiences, and your feelings. I believe every person has the capacity to grow, understand themselves, and find solutions that work for their life.

In our sessions, I listen deeply, reflect what I hear, and support you in uncovering insights and making changes that feel right for you. You guide the pace, and I create a safe, non-judgmental environment for exploration.

Boarding School

My interest in boarding school and it's effect on people's lives came from attending a boarding school in Malaysia from ages 6 to 12 (see my personal journey below). Currently I am very active with Chefoo Reconsidered, made up of former students who want to look again at their time at boarding school - what it has meant for them in the past, and what it means for them now. At boarding school we learnt to survive, now there's an opportunity to go beyond survival and start living. 

Why I became a counsellor / therapist

Not only have I recognised in my own life the effect boarding school has had, but I know too how much many of those who went to the same school have struggled. Yet everyone’s story is different and that both fascinates me and affirms our common humanity. My training and personal therapy has not only helped me work through my own issues but also to learn how to listen and to be truly present for others - these things don’t come naturally to ex-boarders!

Where I live

I live on the south coast of the UK on the border of West Sussex and Hampshire but am available to take on online clients whereever they are.

Professional Qualifications

  • BSc Psychology (Honours) with Counselling, The Open University, UK

  • CPCAP Therapeutic Counselling Level 4 Humanistic

  • Registered Member, British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP)

Data Protection

Compliant with GDPR, Registered with the ICO, UK

Safety Check

Enhanced DBS Certificate to 26/08/2026

Insurance

Balens (cover UK and worldwide apart from the US and Canada)

Limited Company 

David Houliston Counselling Limited. Reg in England & Wales 16731579