Debbie Thorley of Debbie Thorley Therapies has been taking part in our Mentoring Programme, working with business mentor Collette Butterworth. We caught up with Debbie to find out how it's going...
Why did you decide to start your own business?
"Starting my own counselling practice was a deeply personal decision rooted in the desire for greater control over my work-life balance and well-being. After years of working for an employer, I found myself increasingly drawn to the idea of focusing on my own needs and those of my family. While I valued the experience gained from working within structured environments including the NHS, Education and the third sector, I often felt restricted by policies and schedules that didn’t align with my vision of holistic, person-centred therapy.
By establishing my own practice, I gained the flexibility to provide counselling services in a way that felt most authentic to me. I could create a safe, welcoming space tailored to the needs of my clients without the pressures and constraints of an external organisation. The ability to set my own hours, choose my client base, and focus on self-care also played a major role in my decision. However, while I had extensive experience as a counsellor, running a business was entirely new to me. I quickly realised that stepping into self-employment meant navigating challenges beyond my professional expertise, from financial management to marketing and business planning. This awareness led me to seek additional guidance and support."
What made you look at the mentoring programme?
"As a sole trader, I initially found myself operating on a day-to-day basis, often feeling overwhelmed by the practical aspects of running a business. While I was confident in my ability to support clients, the business side of things—taxes, marketing, administration, and long-term planning—felt completely foreign. I lacked formal business knowledge and felt isolated in decision-making, which made the transition from employee to business owner quite daunting.
One evening, I came across a Facebook video featuring one of the programme’s mentors, Collette. She spoke about the challenges of working alone and the benefits of structured business mentorship. Her words resonated with me, and I realised that I wasn’t the only one feeling lost in the world of self-employment. This prompted me to enquire further about the programme, recognising that if I wanted my business to succeed and grow, I needed expert support. I saw the mentoring programme as an opportunity to gain the skills and confidence necessary to build a sustainable counselling practice, rather than merely surviving each day without clear direction."
What's it like working with Collette?
"Working with Collette has been a breath of fresh air. From our first meeting, I felt a sense of relief knowing that I had someone in my corner who truly understood the challenges of self-employment. Collette provided a structured approach to business planning, something I had been struggling to implement on my own. She helped me identify key gaps in my knowledge, from financial planning to marketing strategies, and together, we built a clear, actionable plan.
One of the most valuable aspects of her support was goal-setting. Rather than simply reacting to daily demands, I now have structured, achievable goals that drive me forward. Collette’s expertise in digital tools and tax management was particularly beneficial, as these were areas I had previously avoided due to lack of knowledge. Beyond the practical elements, our regular meetings provided much-needed accountability, ensuring I stayed focused on both my professional and personal well-being.
Another key benefit has been the connections I’ve made through her network. Collette introduced me to other professionals who have helped me develop my business, whether through collaboration, shared resources, or additional training. The ongoing support has been instrumental in reducing the isolation I initially felt, making me more confident in my decisions and excited about the future."
How did you find the workshops available through the programme?
"As part of the mentoring programme, I have attended several workshops, each of which has had a significant impact on my business and personal development. Two in particular—business planning and self-care—have shaped the way I approach both my work and my well-being.
The business planning workshop provided me with the foundational knowledge I needed to structure my practice effectively. It covered everything from financial forecasting to client retention strategies, helping me shift from a reactive approach to a proactive one. I now feel more in control of my business, with a clearer understanding of how to sustain and grow it.
The self-care workshop was equally valuable, as it reinforced the importance of prioritising my own well-being alongside my professional responsibilities. Before attending, I often neglected my own needs in favour of supporting clients, leading to burnout. The workshop gave me practical strategies for maintaining a healthy work-life balance, ensuring that I can continue to provide high-quality counselling services without compromising my own mental and emotional health.
These training sessions have been instrumental in my development, equipping me with the knowledge and tools necessary to build a sustainable and fulfilling business."
What would you say the impact has been on your business?
"The support and guidance I have received from Collette have transformed both my confidence and my business. Before joining the mentoring programme, I often felt uncertain about my ability to run a successful practice. Now, I not only understand the fundamentals of business management, but I also feel empowered to make strategic decisions that support my growth.
The biggest changes I have experienced include:
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?
"For anyone considering mentorship or business support, my advice is simple: do not hesitate. The knowledge, guidance, and encouragement you gain from working with an experienced mentor can make all the difference in your journey as a business owner.
Before joining the programme, I didn’t realise how much I needed this kind of support. Now, I can confidently say that it has been one of the best decisions I have made for both my business and my personal growth. You will gain insights that you didn’t even know you needed, and with the right support system in place, you will go from strength to strength. Having someone to guide you, hold you accountable, and share their expertise can fast-track your progress in ways you might not achieve on your own."
What are your future plans?
"Thanks to the mentoring and support I have received, I now have real, tangible plans for the future—something I never thought possible when I first started my business. Instead of just surviving each day, I have been able to think ahead and expand my vision.
One of my most exciting future projects is expanding my business to include a second therapy room. This space will be available for other therapists and organisations to use, creating a hub for professional collaboration and support. By taking this step, I am not only growing my business but also providing opportunities for other professionals in the field.
I am incredibly grateful for the mentoring programme and the guidance I have received from Collette. With the foundation I now have in place, I look forward to continuing to grow, develop, and make a meaningful impact through my work."
