Fay Hanniker
MA (Distinction) · BACP Member · Relate Counsellor
Relationship Counsellor & Psychodynamic Therapist
An experienced relationship counsellor based in the Thames Valley, Fay has spent over two decades helping couples, individuals, and young people navigate fear, anxiety, and confusion — guiding them toward clarity and the confidence to face even the most difficult decisions.
About the Author
From Confusion to Clarity
Fay Hanniker is an experienced relationship counsellor based in the Thames Valley, working in both private practice and for Relate. Using psychodynamic and systemic approaches, she works alongside clients to help them move from fear, anxiety, or overwhelming confusion to a place of genuine understanding and empowerment.
She has been a BACP member since May 2006 and holds an MA in Relationship Therapy from the University of Hull, awarded with Distinction. Before becoming a therapist, Fay had a 20-year career as a qualified English teacher — a background that sharpened her ability to listen, communicate, and connect deeply with people.
Her work at Berkshire Relate spans couples counselling, individual therapy, and as a Relateen counsellor supporting young people aged 11–18 affected by family breakdown or domestic violence. She is also a certified SPIP Trainer for CAFCASS.
Couples Counselling
Supporting couples through affairs, infertility, loss of connection, and the aftermath of abuse — with both compassion and clarity.
Psychodynamic & Systemic Therapy
Exploring the deeper patterns and relational systems that shape how people connect, conflict, and heal.
Relateen & Young People
Specialist counselling for young people aged 11–18 impacted by parental divorce, family breakdown, or domestic violence.
Domestic Violence Support
Experienced in working sensitively with relationships impacted by domestic violence, in line with Relate policy and best practice.
Fay’s Approach
I see my role as working alongside my clients — helping them move from fear and confusion to a place where they feel they have the understanding and power to deal with even the most difficult decisions.
— Fay Hanniker, MA · BACP Member
Professional Experience
Career & Practice
Berkshire Relate
Couples Counsellor & Relateen Counsellor
September 2003 – Present · 22+ years · Greater Reading Area
Couples and individual counselling covering a wide range of relationship issues. Also works as a Relateen counsellor supporting young people aged 11–18 through family breakdown, parental divorce, and domestic violence. Works with relationships affected by domestic violence in line with Relate policy.
CAFCASS
SPIP (Separated Parents Information Programme) Trainer
September 2010 – Present · 15+ years
Delivering the Separated Parents Information Programme — helping separated parents prioritise the needs of their children during and after relationship breakdown.
Warr Clinic, Wokingham
Associate Counsellor, Private Practice
September 2007 – Present · 18+ years
Working with couples and individuals on issues including infertility, affairs, the impact of childhood sexual abuse on relationships, and falling out of love. Also supports individuals rebuilding after relationship breakdown.
Waingels Copse School & Weavers School
Head of English / English Teacher
1984 – 2005 · 20 years
A 20-year career as a qualified English teacher, progressing to Head of English. Career change to counselling in 2005 brought a strong foundation in communication and human connection to therapeutic work.
Areas of Expertise
Clinical Specialisations
Get in Touch
Connect with Fay
Whether you’re interested in her writing on CoupleSuite, her counselling practice, or simply want to follow her expert relationship insights — Fay is always open to connection.