Helen Willoughby, BACP, NCPS

Helen Willoughby has practised as a therapist since 2003 after a long career in nursing, bringing a health-focused perspective to emotional and psychological care. She works from a private practice and has supported people with a wide range of concerns, including sexuality, mental health, relationships, gender issues, grieving, low self-confidence, family difficulties, abuse and sexual abuse. Her background in nursing informs a compassionate, practical approach to therapy and an understanding of how physical and emotional health can interact.

Helen draws on multiple counselling models, including person-centred work, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and Gestalt approaches, adapting methods to each person rather than applying a one-size-fits-all plan. She holds BACP and NCPS credentials, indicating professional membership in recognised counselling and psychotherapy organisations. At the start of therapy she takes time to answer questions and address any doubts, and she treats each client as an individual with respect and kindness.

Counselling can feel challenging and requires courage, but Helen frames it as an opportunity to be gentler with oneself and to create breathing space for change. When a client is ready to take that first step, she offers steady support and practical collaboration to help them move forward.

Therapeutic approaches for online support

Client-centred therapy focuses on the person rather than the problem, creating a respectful, non-judgemental space where a therapist follows the client’s pace and priorities; it helps with building self-awareness, confidence and a stronger sense of identity. Cognitive behavioural therapy, or CBT, is a structured approach that looks at how thoughts, feelings and behaviours interact - it is often used for anxiety, depression and coping with life changes by teaching practical skills to shift unhelpful patterns. Mindfulness therapy brings attention to the present moment through simple awareness exercises, helping reduce overwhelm and improve emotional regulation in situations like stress, grief and relationship difficulties.

Finding the right therapeutic approach is part of the work itself, and Helen will collaborate with each client to identify what fits best based on their needs, goals and preferences. That process can include trying different methods and adjusting the focus as therapy progresses.

Online therapy offers practical flexibility - sessions can take place by video call, over the phone, via live chat or through text-based messaging - making it easier to arrange regular appointments around work, family and other commitments. Working remotely can increase accessibility for international clients and for people who prefer the convenience of connecting from home, while still receiving guidance from licensed professionals and therapists.