Paula Clifton, BACP

Paula uses client-centred work to focus on the person rather than a set formula. That means she listens closely to what matters most to each client and shapes sessions around their goals and preferences. This approach helps when someone needs support making sense of feelings or navigating a big life change.

She also uses Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, CBT, to identify patterns of thinking and behaviour that keep problems going. CBT involves practical exercises and simple experiments to try between sessions and can be useful for anxiety, low mood and sleep issues. Hypnotherapy is offered as an additional option when appropriate; it aims to aid relaxation and reinforce helpful mental shifts through guided imagery and suggestion.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. Paula collaborates with clients to decide which methods to try and adapts them to each person’s needs and comfort. She checks progress regularly and changes the plan if something does not fit.

Online formats include video calls, phone sessions, live chat and text-based messaging. Video is useful for fuller conversations, phone can be easier when bandwidth is low, and messaging suits quick check-ins or people who prefer writing. These options make it easier to fit therapy around work, caring duties or travel, and allow continuity when life gets busy.