Dr. John Hilsdon, BACP
Dr. John Hilsdon helps people facing depression, anxiety, stress and addiction find steady ground again. He also supports those dealing with grief, relationship strain and life-sta
- Stress & Anxiety
- Addictions
- Relationship issues
- +3 more
About John
Dr. John Hilsdon helps people facing depression, anxiety, stress and addiction find steady ground again. He also supports those dealing with grief, relationship strain and life-stage questions.
He writes plainly and listens carefully so people can speak without feeling judged. He brings 24 years of experience as a counsellor in the United Kingdom and holds BACP registration. Sessions are conversational and paced to each person’s needs.
He aims to make the room feel calm and straightforward, so people can focus on what matters to them.
Background and approach
Dr. Hilsdon often uses a client-centred way of working, which means the person sets the pace and priorities. He draws on existential ideas to help people find meaning and direction when life feels uncertain or stuck.
These approaches suit worries about purpose, midlife shifts, and difficult decisions. In practice he helps people talk through practical problems like communication breakdowns, jealousy, and work-related stress. He also supports those facing more specific issues such as panic attacks, obsessions or compulsions, and process addictions like gambling or problematic pornography use.
People living with serious illness, carers and those nearing end of life may find him helpful for hospice-related concerns and grief work. He also addresses first responder issues, guilt and shame, isolation and prejudice-related distress. Sessions adapt to the concern and to the person’s pace.
Sessions are offered in English and are available online in a range of formats. The focus is on steady progress, honest conversation and practical next steps tailored to each person’s life.
Registration
| Body | Registration number | Expires |
|---|---|---|
| BACP | 76390 | June 2026 |
Registration details are as listed on the counsellor's public profile. You can check any number with the registering body.
Sessions and payment
Sessions are held online through our partner platform, by video, phone or messaging depending on the counsellor.
Costs are shown on the partner platform before you commit. If cost is a concern, ask about reduced-fee options.
Focus areas and approaches
What John works with
Everything John lists, in their own terms.
- Stress, Anxiety
- Addictions
- Relationship issues
- Grief
- Depression
- Cancer
- Communication problems
- First responder issues
- Guilt and shame
- Hospice and end-of-life counselling
- Isolation / loneliness
- Jealousy
- Life purpose
- Men's issues
- Midlife crisis
- Obsessions, compulsions, and OCD
- Panic disorder and panic attacks
- Phobias
- Prejudice and discrimination
- Process addiction (porn, exercise, gambling)
- Self-harm
- Smoking / vaping cessation
- Workplace issues
Approaches John lists
Listing an approach is not evidence of training in it. This directory copies what each counsellor names and does not check training records.
Online support
Existential Therapy looks at questions of meaning, choice and responsibility. It helps when life feels empty, when someone faces midlife crossroads, or when grief raises questions about purpose and identity.
Choosing the right approach is part of the work together. The therapist will discuss goals and preferences, try different ways of working, and adjust the focus as needs change. This is a collaborative process where the person helps shape the plan.
Online therapy offers flexibility for busy lives. Video calls let people keep face-to-face contact while saving travel time. Phone sessions or short live chats can fit into a work break or a tight day, and text-based messaging supports ongoing check-ins between live sessions. These options make it easier to maintain continuity and regular support when schedules or locations vary.
Frequently asked
What kinds of problems does he help with?
He supports people with depression, anxiety, stress, addictions, grief and relationship difficulties, plus issues such as panic attacks and OCD symptoms.
How would he describe his therapeutic style?
He works in a client-centred way that follows the person's pace and priorities, and uses existential thinking to address questions of meaning and purpose.
How long has he been practising?
He has 24 years of clinical experience working as a counsellor in the United Kingdom.
What credentials and location are listed?
He is registered with BACP and is based in the United Kingdom.
Which languages and international options are offered?
Sessions are offered in English and he accepts international clients.
What formats are available for sessions?
Sessions can be done by video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging depending on what suits the person.
How does the pricing work?
Costs vary with location and therapist availability; sessions are arranged through a subscription model that can be cancelled at any time.
How do I begin if I want to work with him?
Click the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and then schedule sessions according to the therapist's availability.
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