Case Study : Counselling 4 U - Katherine Johnson

Mum-of-two Katherine Johnson set up Counselling 4 U with funding and support from Be Enterprising, Durham County Council’s Local Enterprise Growth Initiative (LEGI) programme.

She said: “I offer a confidential and personal service to each individual. I know how hard it is to open up about your problems, having suffered with long-term depression and anorexia nervosa myself.

“I look at things a little differently compared to other services around. Instead of just treating the effects, I look to find the root cause of a person’s problem, and treat both, as you can’t have one without the other.

“If I can help just one person, then all my hard work has been worth it, no-one should have to suffer.”

Prior to starting her own business, Katherine was unemployed, due to ill health, having suffered with long-term depression and anorexia nervosa.  

Recent research carried out by the charity Mind for the “Time to Change” campaign revealed that 92 per cent of the British public believes admitting to having a mental illness would damage someone's career.

Katherine added: “It’s true, a lot of people are reluctant to go to their doctor with mental illness as they feel that it will affect their career if it goes on their medical records. Counseling 4 U is totally independent and confidential.”

Evidence from the same research also suggests that one in four people with a mental health problem have not contacted any professional about it.

Katherine said: “There is a massive stigma attached to having a mental health problem, as if having one makes you a crazy person, but we live in the 21st century and no-one should have to live with these kinds of problems. Sometimes all you need is some advice and someone to talk to.”

Michael Smith, Katherine’s Be Enterprising coach, said: “Katherine has spent many hours on the other side of the desk, receiving support, so she knows what patients gain from counseling sessions.

“She also understands that each patient is unique. This is why I am confident that her business will be a success, she knows what she is talking about, and she’s been there herself.”

With help and support in the form of a grant from Be Enterprising, Katherine was able to buy basic equipment that she needed to get started.

Katherine explained: “With the grant, I was able to buy a laptop and pay for my first six months rent for the office. It has really helped me get on my feet and having my rent paid for has given me breathing space to get up and running. If it wasn’t for Be Enterprising, I wouldn’t have been able to do this.

“My coach Michael has been fantastic, he found the office space, and it was exactly what I wanted. There is so much to consider when starting a business, and Be Enterprising have helped me every step of the way.”