Testimonials
Feedback from people I have supported through separation, communication difficulties, practical arrangements and emotionally challenging situations.
Katie Alexiou was an extraordinary source of support throughout an incredibly stressful separation, and I genuinely cannot speak highly enough of her.
What makes Katie so exceptional is not just her expertise, but the calm, clear and deeply human way she works. During an incredibly overwhelming time, she brought clarity, direction and reassurance. She helped navigate difficult decisions, understand the process ahead, and identify the right professionals when needed.
More than that, Katie was a genuine source of support. Sitting at her kitchen table, I actually felt instant relief that I had found a compassionate ally and I was not alone finding a way through things. Through quite a long process it was an utter godsend to have her available to sense check events, draft comms, keep things rational, and steady the ship when everything felt so overwhelming. Her calm presence helped me believe there could be a way through and better times ahead.
Katie was consistently responsive, dependable and supportive throughout and incredibly fair and transparent in her billing. In one of the hardest periods of our lives, Katie’s kindness, professionalism and wisdom have been a genuine lifeline. I cannot recommend her enough.
It is hard to over-emphasise the difference that Katie makes to the clients she works with. As a family mediator, I get to experience firsthand the transformative effect she has on her clients, giving them support, wise counsel and an honest appraisal of how they will best navigate what can feel like an impossibly bleak time. I have seen how she empowers those who are feeling disempowered and gives hope to those that feel a bit hopeless. She is eminently sensible but more importantly a highly compassionate coach. I wish there were more like her out there for people to use.
— Family law mediator, London
One of my divorce aims was not falling into the trap of repeatedly paying lawyers to send expensive letters… Thankfully, working with Katie meant I didn’t have to. Katie was very easy to work with, always quick to respond and her sound advice helped me to resolve my divorce in the most amicable way possible and stay on good terms with my ex-wife.
Katie has been an absolute godsend, and I honestly can’t recommend her highly enough. I’ve been going through a long, stressful, and drawn-out divorce, and she has supported me every step of the way with compassion, professionalism, and genuine care.
I made the daunting decision to represent myself, which at times felt overwhelming, but with Katie’s guidance and support, she has given me the confidence to do it. Her knowledge, reassurance, and encouragement have been invaluable throughout the process.
Her response time is incredibly quick, which has been such a comfort during difficult moments — even on weekends and holidays. She has always been there at the end of the phone or email whenever I’ve needed guidance, reassurance, or support.
Katie has made an incredibly difficult process feel far less overwhelming, and I’m truly grateful for everything she has done for me.
I’d known Katie for some years but never thought I’d need to use her services until I felt my marriage was starting to break down. I wasn’t even sure whether I wanted to proceed with a divorce so contacted Katie initially to get some advice about the divorce process and what my expectations should be if I were to ask for a divorce. Katie made me feel at ease from the start and calmly and professionally explained everything I needed to know so I could make my own decision, at no time putting me under any pressure.
When several months later I asked my husband for a divorce and he had difficulty coming to terms with it, Katie saw us both together to discuss different options and clarify our expectations of how our finances including our pensions would be split, what we may need to do about the house and how we should approach things with our children. She also gave us recommendations for marriage counsellors and divorce mediation experts. As a result of this we were able to achieve a less confrontational and less costly divorce than I suspect we would have done had I gone straight to a solicitor from the beginning.
Katie’s confident and caring approach made what was always going to be a stressful and emotional situation much more manageable and she gave me the confidence and knowledge to follow through and hold out for a fair divorce settlement. I can’t thank Katie enough for the support she provided.
I had seen Katie’s advert in the ‘About Thames Ditton’ magazine a few years ago and when I found myself in the unfortunate position of going through a separation, I contacted her to have an initial conversation about my legal position and to see if she could be of help. During that first meeting, I felt heard, understood and acknowledged; something that I desperately needed at that time.
A few months later my now ex-husband asked for a divorce and I suggested talking to Katie together, to avoid going to court and trying to keep the situation as amicable as possible. She was able to guide us through some very difficult conversations, by offering the right mix of help and guidance, but also direction.
Thanks to Katie, we were able to reach an agreement; something I did not necessarily expect as communication with my ex-husband had been pretty much non-existent. Throughout the whole process, I felt I could trust Katie and that my position was understood and appropriately represented during discussions; especially in moments, where I felt I did not know how express myself.
Katie is an absolute godsend and I would recommend her to anyone without hesitation, and in fact have already done so.
Katie helped my wife and I through the difficult period of financial separation. Katie eased us through with her professionalism, fairness, patience and knowledge. The process felt safe to me and that meant everything.
My divorce came completely out of the blue, and I felt wholly unprepared for the emotional, financial, and practical upheaval that followed. With three children involved, it was an incredibly painful and overwhelming time. Finding Katie was a real blessing when I felt alone and fearful about what lay ahead. She guided me through each step at a pace I could manage, helping me make sense of a situation that often felt impossible to navigate.
Eventually, we invited my ex into the conversations, and Katie handled what could easily have become a highly emotional and confrontational process with remarkable diplomacy and professionalism. She is knowledgeable, compassionate, and creates a safe environment where difficult conversations can take place constructively. I cannot thank her enough for the support she provided. For me, it felt like much more than legal and practical guidance — she offered genuine pastoral care during one of the hardest periods of my life. I cannot recommend her enough. Thank you Katie!
Katie was amazing! We came to her unable to figure out how to move forward with our separation and divorce, but she was able to help us to navigate our way through the biggest issues and come to an agreement that we were both happy with.
I had no idea how the process works when you divorce, it seemed so overwhelming and complicated, but as Katie explained the steps in a clear and understandable way, it alleviated most of my concerns and fears.
As she is an impartial advisor, her guidance was so valuable in helping us to negotiate with one another without the need for expensive lawyers representing each of us and being subjected to a long, drawn out and stressful divorce.
We both found Katie’s experience and insight invaluable. I couldn’t recommend her highly enough!
I worked with Katie when I was going through an amicable divorce with my husband. She helped us reach a fair agreement to suit us both which enabled us to keep the costs down. She is very approachable and considerate and made the process very easy and stress free. If you are going through a divorce I would definitely recommend working with Katie.
Dealing with my divorce was one of the hardest things I’ve have ever had to go through. I went to see Katie on a friend’s recommendation and she immediately put me at ease and it felt like being with a friend but one who helped me navigate the difficulty of sorting through our finances with her immense knowledge and skill. She responded quickly to my message and she saved me thousands in lawyers fees.
My husband also felt comfortable enough to come to a few of the meetings making the process much easier. Katie dealt with both of us extremely professionally and I would recommended her to anyone unfortunate enough to find themselves in a similar situation.
You’ve been amazing in helping us navigate through this process. Your Google rating should be a thousand stars!
I worked with Katie during a particularly complex separation involving international immigration considerations, child arrangements, financial negotiations, and significant emotional complexity.
What stood out throughout was Katie’s ability to remain calm, practical, and focused on solutions. She helped me navigate difficult decisions while keeping sight of what mattered most: our child’s wellbeing, long-term stability, and finding a constructive path forward.
One aspect I especially appreciated was Katie’s willingness to work collaboratively with both me and my husband where appropriate. She helped facilitate productive conversations, encouraged practical problem-solving over conflict, and maintained a balanced and thoughtful approach even when emotions were running high.
Katie combines deep knowledge with genuine empathy. She has a rare ability to explain complicated legal and procedural issues in a way that feels accessible and manageable, while still giving honest advice about risks, options, and likely outcomes.
I would not hesitate to recommend her to anyone navigating separation, particularly where children are involved and there is a desire to reach a fair and workable resolution with dignity.
Katie was recommended to me by a family friend who had recently got divorced. I was so nervous after booking my first appointment with her, as I knew this was going to be the start of the hardest thing I would ever have to do in my life. From the moment we started chatting, Katie made me feel very comfortable and at ease, but above all she did not judge me. She was friendly and very knowledgeable, able to give me all the advice I needed to divorce my husband. She was very honest from the start, even telling me things I didn’t want to hear, like what my husband was entitled to. Katie informed me about my legal position for my finances as well as my children. She was able to advise me on how to tell my children that their parents were splitting up, gave me hints and tips of what to say and how to say it, when to tell them and then preparing for the future.
Katie was always quick to respond to any questions I had and would always get back to me within the same day. She helped me draft all the documents I needed to prepare to file for divorce and rewrote anything which was not clear. She checked all the finances for me for the financial consent order and also gave me the strength and courage to tell my husband exactly what was happening.
Katie has saved me thousands of pounds in legal fees and above all, treated me like a friend which is what I really needed. She was able to recommend other legal services for the future as well. All through the divorce process, Katie has been there for me and when my Decree Absolute was granted, it was the best day of my life and I immediately wanted to share my news with Katie. I owe so much to her for what she has enabled me to do, the support and knowledge she has given me is invaluable. I would highly recommend Katie to anyone as she has enabled me to move on with my life and finally be happy.
Separation is awful, but with the right support you’ll feel more confident and better informed and you can work through those different conversations with your partner. Start by calling Katie, you’ll be so grateful you did.
Katie’s advice was legally accurate, insightful and incredibly helpful. I felt much better equipped to tackle difficult conversations with my husband after just one consultation.
Meeting you last March has been one of the best things to happen in my life, your support, encouragement, wealth of knowledge and love has been a godsend, for which I thank you.
Katie is a balm on so very many wounds when facing a divorce. With her amazing bedside manner, psychological insights, vast legal expertise and being far more affordable than going down the traditional solicitor route, Katie is definitely someone you want to get on board. Whether for the whole shebang or as a valuable supplement to your legal journey, Katie will knowledgeably walk you through your options in the friendliest setting, advising which approach would best suit your unique circumstances. She will then willingly hold your hand through the process, only an email or call away. Katie brings sanity and calm to an otherwise scary arena and, most importantly, tremendous hope for a more palatable outcome. I was beyond grateful when I learned of Katie’s services through a friend. They were exactly what I needed. Just wish I’d discovered her sooner!
Katie was recommended via a friend and immediately after seeing her I felt like a weight had been lifted from my shoulders. It was the best money I have ever spent. She had such a lovely way about her and, having dealt with many divorces over the years, she seemed to instinctively know what was going to happen further down the line. This helped me to behave differently and take a more level headed approach to my separation/divorce which in turn has benefitted my whole family. She was able to advise about the nitty gritty like the actual divorce and the finances, but at the same time also completely understanding the emotional side. I would highly recommend her.
Katie has a perfect balance of being knowledgeable and can beautifully word things to reduce conflict. I stopped using a top law firm costing me absurd amounts of money as Katie has a knack of knowing exactly what to write to get the best results. I wish I had found her earlier!
Katie listened and gave me advice that was specific to my personal circumstances. Yes, she covered the legalities of separation, but she also advised on the practicalities. You can trust her and she genuinely cares about her clients.
Katie is approachable, knowledgeable and incredibly helpful.
Thank you for one of the most helpful, empowering and supportive hours I have had since our separation a year ago. Since we spoke, I have seen my husband and we have agreed to start the process of trying to achieve a reasonable, acceptable and kind financial settlement together.
I just wanted to write and say thank you for all your efforts on my behalf during the past year or so.
The legal process can be intimidating at times, and having your support, knowledge and reassurance has been hugely invaluable. I only wish I had been able to benefit from your friendly advice years ago.
Katie is an excellent relationships coach and I have gained so much from our work together. She helped me to clarify my own thoughts and goals and to step out of my comfort zone. I gained a lot of confidence, became more stable in my marriage, and pursued a new job.
I have already told so many people I know about Katie, and recommended her to two friends, one of which is starting sessions with Katie next month.
I only have positive things to say about Katie!
Katie is warm, engaging, and articulate. She seems to have a gift for understanding people well, and picks up on small details and nuances.
We did two of our sessions on Skype, and one in person, and I can say that I gained immensely more from our session in person as Katie has a wonderful, warm approach.
Katie’s warmth made me feel immediately at ease, and I know that the wisdom that she shared will stay with me for years to come. Being able to talk through my thoughts and goals with her, I was able to gain clarity and confidence and found myself embracing opportunities that I had never imagined before.
I want you to know what an impact our conversations had on me. I was really able to lift myself out of that rubbish time and get back on track in life and I’m happier now than ever. If I could have read this email a year and a half ago I would have been so surprised, and so proud. Thank you times a million for playing a part in it.
I met Katie when I was in the full crisis of my marriage. She is extremely professional but also very warm and supportive. She made me realise that my grievances were relevant, but also encouraged me practically, discussing tone of voice and attitude. She was so dedicated to my situation, that even when she went on holiday, she checked in on me.
By the end of our sessions, I really felt that I had a good understanding of divorce law. Then, when I went to mediation, I could talk things through calmly, confidently and not be pushed around.
Katie was a total godsend. She has honesty, integrity and compassion. She helped make the process as painless and inexpensive as possible! I have already recommended her to friends going through divorce. She is a breath of fresh air in an industry in which it is easy to lose faith.
Katie was a saviour to me when I first met with her. I knew absolutely nothing about divorce and less about becoming a single parent, but after our first meeting together she was able to help me understand the process and subsequently lessen my fears. I have called, emailed and met Katie in person, and each time she has been so kind, helpful and supportive. Her advice is honest and professional and I am very grateful to my friend for recommending her to me.
Wish I’d known about Katie sooner. Would have saved a small fortune in solicitors fees.
A friend recommended Katie’s services as previous solicitors used during my divorce had shattered my trust in the legal system. Her legal support has been invaluable and her knowledge of the legal system is extensive. She is efficient and professional and has a deep understanding of the emotional turmoil that divorce and child matters can cause. She has dealt with my case with such level headedness and compassion and I fully recognise how lucky I have been to have had her full support.
I found Katie extremely knowledgeable and a third independent person whose advice sought to reach agreement as opposed to Solicitors who in my experience seem to seek conflict.
My time with Katie gave me the confidence and reassurance to know where I stood, so much so, that I represented myself armed with the facts and clear objectives. It surprised me…
I think Katie’s approach is to avoid conflict and thus expensive costs. Divorce is a very stressful time so anything to make it as easy and ‘pleasant’ as possible.
Katie was local and much less intimidating than a Solicitor. Also, most importantly once there she sought to find resolution.
Many thanks Katie, what a wonderful service you provide with professionalism and a fantastic personal quality. You made it feel easy to talk to you and discuss some very hard things.
The service Katie provided was superb. She was extremely helpful and always available to offer regular feedback and further advice.
Katie was recommended to me via a friend and it was great to be able to get some independent advice without it costing an arm and a leg and to have the option of using the service that Katie provides on an ad hoc basis.
I had recently separated from my husband and was looking for some independent advice regarding the legal aspects of the separation and divorce. Katie’s experience in this area shone through and she purposefully and succinctly gave me all the advice I was looking for. Katie was an absolute pleasure to deal with; whilst she was knowledgeable in her field, she was also very warm and empathetic and very easy to talk with. I loved the fact that she offered a flexible service that could be tailored to my individual needs. I would not hesitate to recommend Katie.
I first met Katie through a recommendation, and boy am I pleased I did. Katie’s personable approach and rational thinking brought key objectives back down to earth through an emotionally challenged time. She did all this whilst remaining totally on point with legalities. She gave great advice, understood exactly what my objectives were which was exactly what I needed.
Katie is very personable and supportive. Full of good advice.
Katie is clearly a reputable professional in her own right, but not least, Katie appreciates that, while emotions are high and somewhat fractious, communication can be the first thing to break down. Her approach is legally sound and ‘people focused’ which has been pivotal to my situation. Katie’s assistance has personally helped create a constructive way in which to communicate with the ‘other side’ but most importantly for me has assisted in creating a better and far calmer way to interact. I can now see my children, communication is far more constructive. Katie’s time and effort is not only affordable, it’s totally worth it. I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending her services whatsoever.
I would recommend Katie to anyone going through a separation or divorce. She helped me through the entire process, and listened to what I wanted, which meant she gave me great advice that was relevant to my circumstances. Katie has so much experience and knowledge, but above all, she is a lovely person to deal with.
Katie always kept me focused on the bigger picture and the end result, which saved me a lot of money and stress. Her writing skills and ability to negotiate with my ex husband’s solicitor are exemplary. As a result, Katie achieved a significantly better outcome for me than I had expected.
Having dealt with several solicitors in my incredibly complex divorce, Katie was the only person that I could truly trust to protect my assets. I cannot recommend her highly enough.
Katie is a unique matrimonial adviser who attempts to resolve disputes in an amicable manner, thus making the divorce process less stressful for all. She is very empathetic and as a mother herself she knows how to prioritise the children’s needs in order to protect them from warring parents.
I am very grateful for the advice and support that Katie has given me during what has been an incredibly stressful time for both me and my children. Katie, who is a mother, understands the importance of prioritising the children’s needs as well as knowing how to deal with my very difficult ex wife. She helped me to persevere when the going got tough..
How I work
I’m based in Thames Ditton, Surrey and offer in-person consultations where possible, in a calm, private home setting. Many people find this more comfortable than a formal office, especially during a difficult period. If meeting in person isn’t practical, working with clients remotely is just as effective.
In our first meeting we will talk through your situation, work out what support you’re likely to need, and together we will make a plan for you
Frequently asked questions
How do you conduct meetings?
Very informally from my kitchen table in my home in Thames Ditton, Surrey. Or, if that is logistically challenging, a phone call or virtual meeting can work equally well.
How do you charge?
I charge an hourly rate of £215+VAT for work with individuals and £230+VAT for couples. There are no hidden extras and I only charge for the exact time taken. For example, if we have a meeting that lasts 57 minutes, I will charge £204 plus VAT. I do not limit our meetings to an hour, nor do they have to take up a full hour.
What will I get from you that I won't get from a legal professional in a law firm?
My charging policy is different to solicitors who charge in 6 minute units. I charge very conservatively, and only for work done, not a voicemail or telephone call setting up a meeting.
However, if you do need to instruct a solicitor further down the line, I can give you the tools to keep your legal fees to a minimum.
I am a qualified solicitor and, although I am no longer practising, still have the experience, expertise and connections to advise you and help you through the process. Most of my clients never need to instruct a solicitor.
It is crucial to be able to talk about what you are going through but doing this with your solicitor can become very expensive. While it can feel important to get your side of the story across, your solicitor needs to know very little about the details of your marriage breakdown. I can give you emotional support and an outlet for your emotions at a far less aggressive rate.
What if I am not local to you?
I am happy to conduct meetings virtually or over the phone and have worked with many clients who I have never met face to face for geographical or logistical reasons. After the first meeting or phone conversation, I find clients communicate with me in the way that suits them best, whether that is phone, email, WhatsApp or text. I will always respond swiftly to any communication. I am happy to conduct meetings over the phone or via Zoom. After the first meeting or phone conversation I find clients communicate with me in the way that suits them best, whether that is phone, email, WhatsApp or text. I will always respond swiftly to any communication.
Can I use you instead of a solicitor?
Yes, absolutely, and most of my clients do exactly that, however, it depends on the complexity of the circumstances of your case. I have had several clients who have gone through the entire process with me in the background helping to advise at each stage, finesse communications, complete forms and draft statements. The ‘other side’ was unaware of my involvement. With others, I have communicated directly with the other party or their solicitor.
If your case goes to court I am unable to represent you or speak on your behalf, but I can help you feel prepared and confident for your hearing and can even attend court with you to offer moral support and advise you in negotiations.
I often work with both parties together, working through the disclosure and negotiation stages around my kitchen table. I’m not a mediator, but have had a high success rate with this approach. If you reach an agreement with your husband or wife, I can help draw up all the paperwork documents before passing you on to a colleague of mine who will draft your consent order (which will become your legally binding document).
Thinking about separation?
Start with clarity.
Divorce doesn’t need to go hand in hand with conflict or court. I can give informed, practical guidance to help you keep hostility and costs to a minimum.