Jody Lumley, BACP

Client-centred work puts the client at the heart of the session, with the counsellor following the client's concerns and priorities. This approach helps when people need a calm space to talk, to be heard and to decide what to work on first.

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying unhelpful thoughts and testing different actions. It tends to be useful for anxiety, low mood and stress because it gives clear strategies and short exercises to practise between sessions.

Mindfulness therapy teaches simple attention and breathing practices to reduce reactivity and manage overwhelming feelings. It can be helpful alongside other methods when someone wants everyday tools to steady their emotions.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. The counsellor will discuss what feels most useful, try techniques together and adjust the plan based on what works for the client and their goals.

Online sessions via video call, phone, live chat or text messaging make therapy more flexible. Video calls are close to face-to-face meetings, phone sessions can fit into a short break or require less bandwidth, and chat or messaging can suit brief check-ins or people who prefer not to use video. These options help people fit support around work, family and daily routines.