Qualified psychotherapeutic counsellor Leanne Stanley works with a diverse range of clients in all corners of the UK.

She is a Police Firearm Officer Association approved counsellor and a panel member for GamblHERS which works with female gambling but her personal specialism is the impact of narcissism.

Cheadle-based Leanne has entered her business, Maze Counselling Services, into the Small Business of the Year category of the Staffordshire University Business Awards.

The business, which Leanne set up in September 2023, works with clients online and over the telephone as well as in person in Cheadle, Uttoxeter and at This Girl in Newcastle-under-Lyme.

Leanne worked in banking then media sales before finding her true vocation in life.

She said: “I’ve found my calling. I just wish I’d found it sooner.

“There are a lot of counsellors out there but I think what marks me out is my dedication and empathetic nature towards clients. I go above and beyond to empower them on their journey.

“Some people have never felt valued. Some people have had traumatic childhood experiences. Because I’m so personable I have a great connection with my clients.

“I specialise in the effects of narcissism, which is very prevalent at the moment. Having that niche allows me to concentrate on clients who are struggling with that.”

Leanne has worked within the NHS but says that offering counselling through her own business allows her to offer more bespoke services and to offer as many sessions as a client needs.

Alongside her core business Leanne founded and hosts EMPOWER—a platform for counsellors, therapists, coaches, students and trainees to connect, collaborate and empower one other.