Abida Haroon, BACP

Abida commonly blends client-centred work with emotionally focused and mindfulness methods. Client-centred therapy means the counsellor follows the person's lead, reflects what they say and helps them find their own solutions; this can help with low mood and stress. Emotionally focused work looks at how feelings shape relationships and personal patterns, which can be useful for intimacy concerns and recurring conflicts. Mindfulness therapy teaches simple attention and breathing exercises to reduce anxiety and improve sleep and concentration.

Deciding which approach to use is a joint process. The counsellor will ask about what you want to change and how you prefer to work, then try methods that suit your goals. Sessions include check-ins, brief exercises and practical homework when that helps. Progress is reviewed together and the plan changes as needed.

Online sessions are offered by video call, phone, live chat or text-based messaging to fit different lifestyles. Video lets you see visual cues and hold longer conversations, while phone calls can be easier if you have less bandwidth. Live chat or messaging can be used for shorter check-ins or when typing feels more comfortable. These options make it easier to fit counselling around work, childcare and travel commitments, and they let therapists and clients try different formats to see what works best.