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Cairns Counselling Steps Up After MHA Closure

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Cairns Counselling Responds to Mental Health Aberdeen (MHA) Closure, Offers Continued Support to Community.

In light of recent developments following the closure of Mental Health Aberdeen (MHA), Cairns Counselling recognises the concern and uncertainty this has created for clients, families, and the wider community. As a longstanding mental health charity in Aberdeen, we are committed to ensuring continuity of compassionate, confidential, and professional counselling support during this period of transition. Cairns Counselling provides accessible counselling services to adults across Aberdeen and the surrounding areas. We understand the urgent need for mental health support now more than ever, and we are open to welcoming individuals who have been affected by the closure of MHA.

“This is a time for the community to come together to ensure that no one is left without support,” said Leasha Esslemont, Counselling Services Manager of Cairns Counselling. “We are actively looking at ways to expand capacity where possible, and we welcome those in need to reach out.”

Support for Clients, Partnerships with Corporate Funders, and Volunteer Opportunities

Cairns Counselling is actively seeking to strengthen its services through collaborative partnerships and increased community involvement:

  • Support for Clients: Individuals impacted by the closure of MHA are encouraged to contact Cairns for counselling support. Our experienced team is here to help navigate this transition with confidentiality and care.
  • Corporate Partnerships: We invite local businesses and organisations to work with us to secure the sustainability of community-based mental health services. Corporate funding can play a crucial role in helping us expand counselling capacity, recruit volunteers, and reduce waiting times.
  • Volunteer Counsellors Welcome: We are also reaching out to qualified counsellors and final-year counselling trainees who may wish to volunteer their time. By joining Cairns, volunteers will become part of a warm, inclusive, and ethically driven organisation focused on client-centred care.

A Call for Community Solidarity

This is a pivotal moment for mental health provision in Aberdeen. We call on our community—clients, funders, volunteers, and advocates—to come together to ensure that professional support remains available to those who need it most.

If you are seeking counselling support, looking to contribute as a volunteer, or represent a company interested in corporate social responsibility partnerships, please get in touch.

Update


“ As a result of the sudden closure of Mental Health Aberdeen, the management team and trustees have taken the decision to temporarily change the maximum number of sessions offered from 20 to 10 sessions.

We understand that all client needs will be different and anyone attending counselling with us will have their needs assessed and completion of counselling will be done at a suitable time in agreement with your counsellor. We will always put our clients first and ensure we do the best for them. This change will take effect for all clients self-referring through the website from the 1st September 2025. If you have any questions, please email info@cairnscounselling,org.uk

 

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