Ave Kotze Psychology Practice
Psychological therapy & Counselling in Hereford & online
Welcome to Ave Kotze Psychology Practice
"We are not what happened to us, we are what we choose to become" - Carl Jung
Welcome to my website — it’s lovely to meet you. My name is Dr Ave Kotze, and I am a Chartered Counselling Psychologist in Hereford.
My journey into psychology began with a deep curiosity about people: their stories, emotions, and the many ways we make sense of our lives. Over time, that curiosity grew into a commitment to help others find meaning, healing, and connection during times of difficulty or change.
After completing my BSc (Hons) in Psychology, I went on to train as a Counselling Psychologist, earning the Doctorate in Counselling Psychology from the University of the West of England, Bristol. I am a Chartered Counselling Psychologist with the British Psychological Society (BPS) and a Registered Practitioner Psychologist with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
Throughout my career, I have worked across NHS inpatient and community settings, supporting individuals facing a wide range of emotional and psychological challenges — from anxiety, depression, trauma, and loss to the transitions that accompany ageing, menopause, identity change, and illness. These experiences have shaped my deep respect for the resilience and wisdom people bring to therapy, even in moments of distress.
ICO Registered (ZC027641)
My Approach
My approach is grounded in relational, humanistic, and integrative principles. I believe that healing happens through authentic connection—when we feel truly seen, accepted, and understood. In my work, I draw on relational psychodynamic, systemic, and third-wave CBT approaches such as Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Eye Movement Desensitation and Reprocessing (EMDR), adapting my approach to meet each person where they are.
I see therapy as a shared space for reflection, curiosity, and growth—one that honours both vulnerability and strength. My aim is to offer a compassionate and collaborative environment where you can explore what matters most, reconnect with your inner resources, and move towards a life that feels more aligned and meaningful. Together, we can nurture self-compassion and develop new ways of relating—to yourself and others—that foster greater freedom, authenticity, and emotional well-being.
I see learning as a lifelong process, one that continues to shape my personal and professional growth. I engage in regular supervision, ongoing training, and reflective practice to deepen my understanding and stay responsive to the evolving needs of those I work with. Each person I meet teaches me something new about resilience, courage, and the many ways we make sense of our experiences.
Sessions & Fees
Each individual session lasts 50 minutes, charged at £100. Couples sessions last for 75 minutes, charged at £150. I also offer a free 15-minute telephone consultation before starting therapy to help us decide whether working together feels right for you.
Payment for all sessions is required in advance by bank transfer.
I offer a limited number of concessionary places for students completing personal therapy as part of their training.
I am also recognised by private health insurance providers Aviva, AXA Health, WPA and Vitality.
If this feels like the right next step, I would be glad to support you in exploring what matters most to you and in finding new ways forward.
Location
I offer individual (1:1) and couples therapy, available face-to-face in Hereford, in The Fred Bulmer Centre. My in-person sessions are easily accessible from areas such as Ross-on-Wye, Leominster, Ledbury and Monmouth.
I also offer online sessions on Thursdays and selected evenings.
Endorsements
Dr Andrew Iles (Clinical Psychologist)
"Dr Ave Kotze is a compassionate, skilled Counselling Psychologist who offers a warm, steady space for clients. Her approach is clear, grounded, and evidence-based, and she works in a way that creates safety and promotes meaningful change."
Dr Joanna Sherwood (Clinical Psychologist)
"I have known Ave for several years and have always been struck by her thoughtfulness, warm and reflective manner, and would happily refer clients to her."
Helen Jane Webb (Counselling Psychologist)
"I had a the pleasure of supervising Ave, She is warm, kind and compassionate. She is a highly skilled therapist, creative in her work, tailoring therapy to each individual's needs. I know Ave has made a difference to many peoples lives!"