Clare Payne – NHS Counselling Coordinator

Clare Payne is the NHS Counselling Coordinator, working across our NHS Talking Therapies contracts to provide essential administrative and operational support. She plays a key role in the smooth day-to-day onboarding of new therapists and in ensuring that systems, communication, and processes effectively support service delivery and quality standards. In this role, Clare works closely with and supports the senior team contributing to the efficient and well-organised running of services.

Clare brings a strong background in administration across the arts, local government, and research sectors, with extensive experience supporting complex workloads, handling sensitive information, and liaising with multiple stakeholders. Her work is underpinned by clear communication, strong attention to detail, and a calm, methodical approach to prioritising tasks and maintaining effective administrative systems within busy, people-centred environments.

Alongside her administrative career, Clare is a BACP registered counsellor, having completed her training in 2021. This training informs her thoughtful, professional, and compassionate approach to her work, particularly within services that require a high level of care, discretion, and ethical awareness. Clare brings particular care to working within inclusive services, with an awareness of cultural difference, women’s experiences, and LGBTQ+ communities. Alongside her TAC role, she runs a private counselling practice, which continues to inform her ethical, reflective, and people-centred approach. She values collaboration, compassion, and continuous learning, and is committed to supporting teams and services to function effectively and compassionately.