Beverley-Ann Watts, NCPS

Person-centred therapy means the counsellor listens closely and follows what the client brings to each session. This approach helps when someone needs space to make sense of loss, identity changes or emotional strain.

Cognitive behavioural therapy focuses on identifying thoughts and behaviours that keep problems going and practising small experiments to change them. It is useful for anxiety, low mood and stress where concrete tools can make a difference.

Motivational interviewing helps people find their own reasons for change and build willingness to take the first steps. It can be helpful with addictions or when motivation feels stuck.

Finding the right mix of approaches is part of the work. The therapist will talk with the client about goals and preferences and then agree a collaborative plan. That way sessions stay focused on what the person wants to achieve rather than on a fixed method.

Online sessions offer practical flexibility. Video calls let people see facial cues and use worksheets together. Phone sessions need less bandwidth and can suit a quick check-in. Live chat or text messaging can work for people who prefer typed conversations or want shorter, more frequent touchpoints. These options make it easier to fit therapy around work, caring responsibilities and varied schedules.