Elia Duncan, BACP

Client-Centred Therapy focuses on listening and building a trusting relationship. The counsellor follows the client’s lead and helps them make sense of their feelings, which works well for depression, grief and identity concerns.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, or CBT, looks at how thoughts and actions keep problems going. Sessions often include practical exercises to try between meetings, which suit stress, anxiety and low mood.

He also uses psychodynamic ideas to consider how past relationships shape current patterns. This can help when someone wants to understand repeated difficulties in relationships or long-standing feelings of emptiness.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. The therapist will discuss options and help decide what feels most useful based on goals and personal style. That choice is reviewed as therapy progresses so plans can change if needed.

Online formats give practical flexibility. Video calls let people use visual cues and a fuller conversation. Phone sessions can be easier when bandwidth is limited or for a shorter check-in. Live chat and text sessions work well for regular, brief contact and for people who prefer writing to speaking. Registered or accredited professionals offer these formats so clients can fit therapy around work, family and travel commitments.