Donnah Hewlett, BACP, NCPS

Client‑centred therapy places the person’s experience at the heart of sessions. The counsellor listens closely and follows what the client brings, helping them feel heard and decide what to focus on. This approach suits people wanting a supportive, non-directive space to talk.

Cognitive behavioural therapy, or CBT, looks at the links between thoughts, feelings and actions. It uses simple exercises and short tasks to test unhelpful thinking and develop new coping habits. CBT is often useful for anxiety, depression and stress where practical steps can reduce distress.

Mindfulness therapy teaches ways to notice present-moment experience without getting swept away by it. Small breathing and attention practices can help when feelings feel overwhelming or rumination is constant.

Deciding which approach to use is a shared task. Donnah will discuss goals, try techniques, and adjust the plan as work unfolds. The choice is shaped by the client’s needs, preferences and what feels most helpful in practice.

Online formats allow sessions by video call, phone, live chat or text-based messaging. Video is close to face-to-face and good for deeper discussion. Phone sessions use less bandwidth and can fit into short breaks. Live chat or messaging suits quick check-ins, brief reflections or people who prefer typing. These options make it easier to fit therapy around work, family and travel.