Avril Lote, NCPS

Client-centred therapy puts the person’s experience at the heart of sessions. The counsellor listens carefully, follows what the client says is important and helps them find their own solutions. This approach suits people who want a supportive, non-directive space to make sense of feelings.

Cognitive behavioural therapy, or CBT, focuses on spotting unhelpful thoughts and testing different responses. It often includes simple exercises and practical techniques to reduce anxiety or low mood and to change everyday habits that get in the way of feeling better.

Psychodynamic work pays attention to how earlier experiences shape current feelings and relationships. It can be useful when someone wants to understand recurring patterns and the roots of emotional reactions.

Choosing the right approach is part of the work together. Avril will collaborate with each person to decide which methods fit their goals, needs and preferences, and she adapts over time if something isn't helping.

Online sessions offer practical flexibility. Video calls allow face-to-face conversation when visual contact matters. Phone sessions work well when bandwidth is limited or for shorter check-ins. Live chat and text-based messaging can suit people who prefer typing or need to fit support around work or caregiving. These options make it easier to keep continuity of care and to fit therapy into a busy life.