Paul Bushell, NCPS

Client-Centred Therapy focuses on listening and responding to what matters most to the person. In practice this means the counsellor reflects feelings and follows the client’s pace so conversations feel less pressured and more supportive. This approach is helpful for people who want to be heard and understood before trying practical steps.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, or CBT, looks at the links between thoughts, feelings and actions. It helps people notice unhelpful thinking patterns and test small behaviour changes to reduce anxiety or low mood. CBT often uses short exercises and homework that suit brief online sessions.

Finding the right mix of approaches is a collaborative process. The therapist will discuss goals, preferences and what has helped before, then agree on a plan together. That plan can change as progress is made or new issues arise, so the client helps steer the therapy style.

Online sessions offer flexibility for different needs. Video calls are useful for face-to-face interaction, phone sessions work well when bandwidth is limited, and live chat or text-based messaging can be used for shorter check-ins or for people who prefer writing. These options make it easier to fit sessions around work, family life and other commitments while keeping continuity of care with registered or accredited professionals.