Our Story
Sage Counselling was founded in 1996 by Ann Orbach, a psychotherapist from Chichester who believed passionately in the value of counselling for older people.
The name “Sage” came from the idea of Senior Age … S-Age … Counselling. Ann recognised that many people - especially older adults - found it hard to travel to appointments. So, Sage was set up within West Sussex to do something simple but powerful: bring counselling to the person, rather than the other way around.
Ann’s belief was clear: “It is never too late for growth and change.”
How We’ve Evolved
We became a registered charity in 2001 (Number 1088917), and for many years, we focused on supporting older people. In 2011 we obtained a lottery-funded grant to extend our services to a wider geographical area and a new emphasis of working with adults of all ages with limited mobility - whether due to physical health, mental wellbeing, or life circumstances.
Today, we provide home-based counselling across West Sussex, visiting people in private homes, care homes, or hospitals.
“I can go out without the fear that something bad might happen”
Sage Counselling Client
Our Team
Sage Counselling is a registered charity, run by a dedicated team of volunteer trustees with backgrounds in counselling, HR, marketing, finance and charity governance. They guide our vision, keep us accountable, and ensure our work reflects our values.
Our day-to-day operations are managed by a small and committed team, including a Counselling Coordinator, a Placement Manager, Supervisors and an Administrator. Together, they support our network of counsellors, handle referrals, and ensure that everything runs smoothly - from first contact to ongoing support.
While we may be a small organisation, our structure ensures that everyone involved is supported, supervised, and part of a caring and professional service.
Who We Are
Our counsellors are both qualified and students in their second year of professional training. Our qualified counsellors receive a nominal fee per session as well as travel expenses and free fortnightly supervision. Our students also receive travel compensation and free supervision.
Sage Counselling is a member of BACP (British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy) and abides by their Code of Ethics. Sage Counselling also conforms to BACP guidance and offers 4 hours of group supervision per month.
Our team is based across West Sussex working remotely and securely.
