Throwback Thursday – Ellen Haslam

New year, new alumni stories! For our first #ThrowbackThursday of the academic year, we're catching up with former student Ellen, who studied at Winstanley from 2015 to 2017 and is now a qualified counsellor and founder of Therapy with Ellen.

Ellen Says...

"I joined Winstanley after attending Culcheth High School and studied Health & Social Care, Sociology and Psychology, alongside an EPQ on young people's mental health.

During my time at college, I completed an introductory sign language course and work experience at a SEND school. The placement led to me returning as an assistant during their summer school programme, giving me valuable experience supporting children with their development. I also enjoyed trips to Manchester Crown Court and the Police Museum.

After Winstanley, I studied Psychology at Leeds Beckett University, graduating with First-Class Honours in 2020. I then worked as a rehabilitation coach in a traumatic brain injury unit and later as a teaching assistant supporting neurodivergent teenagers.

In 2022, I began training as a counsellor at Warrington & Vale Royal College, completing my qualifications while gaining placement experience with local charities and working in a mental health facility. After qualifying in 2025, I was offered a full-time counselling role supporting clients with issues including bereavement, domestic abuse, low self-esteem and life transitions.

Alongside this role, I launched my own private practice, Therapy with Ellen, where I offer online and telephone counselling for people aged 16 and over. I have a particular interest in supporting clients through life changes, building confidence and understanding neurodivergence, drawing on both my professional and personal experience as someone diagnosed with ADHD later in life.

Looking ahead, I'm about to begin training to facilitate therapeutic groups and hope to offer these in the future. I also plan to complete supervision training so I can provide guidance and support to other counsellors.

My advice to current students is to be open to new experiences, ask questions and take opportunities when they come along. Different experiences will help you discover what you're passionate about. Most importantly, don't be afraid of making mistakes. They're often where the biggest learning happens.

If you're considering Winstanley, I'd definitely recommend it. I made lifelong friends there and always felt supported throughout my time at College.”