Simon Knott , BACP

Therapeutic approaches and how online therapy helps

Client-Centred Therapy focuses on the person's experience. The counsellor listens without judgement, reflects what is said and helps the person choose what to focus on next. This approach suits people who want a compassionate space to make sense of their feelings.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, or CBT, looks at how thoughts and behaviours keep difficulties going. It uses practical exercises and small behavioural experiments to reduce anxiety, improve sleep, or change unhelpful patterns. This approach works well for clear, time-limited goals like managing worry or low mood.

Solution-Focused Therapy concentrates on what a person wants to achieve and on small, achievable steps forward. It is action-oriented and often used when people want short-term help to change particular situations or routines.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. The counsellor will discuss goals, preferences and practical needs, then agree a plan together. That might combine listening-led sessions with CBT techniques and solution-focused tasks as appropriate.

Online sessions use video calls, phone, live chat or text-based messaging to offer flexibility. Video is useful for fuller conversation, phone can be easier when bandwidth is limited, and messaging can suit brief check-ins or people who prefer writing. These options make it easier to fit therapy around work, childcare and busy lives.