James Saunders, BACP, NCPS

James Saunders is a UK-based psychotherapeutic counsellor who combines professional training with lived experience to support adults and young adults (18+). He is BACP Registered and NCPS Accredited - terms that indicate formal registration and accreditation with recognised professional counselling organisations - and holds a Level 4 Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling. He trained after a lengthy career in e-commerce, where high pressure and long hours led him to confront anxiety, depression, and addiction and eventually to a personal path of recovery and retraining into counselling.

His recovery journey included engagement with 12-step programs, spiritual psychotherapy, and meditation practices, and he integrates those perspectives into his work when appropriate. He describes a relaxed, non-judgmental style and emphasises empathic listening, aiming to make therapy relatable and practical by drawing on both professional skills and personal insight. James has volunteered with the UK mental health charity Mind and provided text-based crisis support with Shout 85258, and his experience as a 12-step sponsor has informed his understanding of addiction and recovery.

James offers flexible online and telephone counselling for people across the United Kingdom. He blends a person-centered approach with techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and psychodynamic thinking when these fit a client’s needs. He has also worked as a therapist on an online counselling platform, supporting a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship difficulties, grief, self-esteem, and life transitions.

Online therapy and therapeutic approaches

James works primarily from a client-centered perspective, which focuses on creating an accepting, empathic space where the client’s own resourcefulness and choices guide the work. This approach is helpful for people seeking support with self-esteem, life changes, relationship concerns, and general emotional struggles.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is offered as a practical, skills-based method that helps identify and reframe unhelpful thoughts and behaviours. CBT can be useful for anxiety, low mood, stress management, and some addictive patterns.

Psychodynamic therapy is also available for clients who wish to explore how past experiences and relationship patterns influence present feelings and choices, which can be relevant for attachment issues, grief, and recurring relationship difficulties.

Deciding which approach to use is a collaborative process. James works with clients to understand their goals, preferences, and practical needs, and tailors the therapeutic plan so it fits the person rather than forcing a single model.

Online therapy with James is offered through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging, providing flexibility for people with busy schedules, mobility limits, or those who prefer remote support. These options make it easier to access regular sessions and maintain continuity of care while fitting therapy into everyday life.