Ayelet Wellard, NCPS

A client-centred approach means the counsellor follows the person’s lead and focuses on what matters most to them. That can involve listening, reflecting and helping a person clarify their goals so sessions stay practical and relevant. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, or CBT, breaks problems into thoughts, feelings and actions and uses simple exercises to test new ways of thinking and behaving; it is often helpful for depression, anxiety and sleep problems. Hypnotherapy uses guided relaxation and focused attention to help reduce stress and support new responses to difficult feelings and behaviours.

Finding the right mix of methods is part of the work. The counsellor will discuss goals, preferences and what has or hasn’t helped before, and they will adjust the approach together over time. That collaborative process helps shape a plan that feels manageable and meaningful.

Online sessions are offered by video call, phone, live chat or text-based messaging to provide flexibility. Video calls are useful for a full conversation and visual cues, phone sessions can be easier when bandwidth is limited, live chat can be a shorter check-in and messaging lets people write when it suits their day. These options make it simpler to fit therapy around work, family and travel commitments, and to keep consistent contact while working toward change.