Melanie Baker, NCPS

Client-Centred Therapy focuses on the person’s experience and on building a trusting, non-judgemental dialogue. It helps when someone needs space to be heard and to explore feelings at their own pace. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) looks at thoughts, feelings and behaviours and uses practical exercises to change unhelpful patterns. It can be useful for anxiety, low mood and stress because it gives clear steps and homework tasks to try between sessions. Finding the right mix of approaches is part of the work. The therapist will discuss options and together they will agree what feels most helpful based on the client’s goals, needs and preferences. This is a collaborative process and plans can change as progress is made. Online formats offer flexibility for people juggling work, caring duties or mobility limits. Video calls let conversations feel close to face-to-face and are suited to deeper therapeutic work. Phone sessions use less bandwidth and can be easier when a screen is tiring or a quieter check-in is needed. Live chat and text-based messaging work well for short check-ins, written reflections or when someone prefers typing to speaking. Many people find online therapy makes it easier to fit regular sessions into their life while still working on meaningful change with a registered or accredited professional.