John Ridley, BACP, NCPS

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps people clarify what matters most to them and take small actions towards those values, even when difficult thoughts or feelings are present. It works well for anxiety, low mood and motivation issues. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) focuses on spotting unhelpful thinking patterns and testing new ways of thinking and behaving, which can reduce anxiety and lift mood over time. Attachment-Based Therapy looks at how early relationships influence current connections and communication, and can help with relationship concerns and patterns of trust.

Choosing the right approach is part of the work. The therapist will talk through these options with each person and decide together which methods fit best for the person's goals and preferences. That collaborative process means plans can change as needs evolve.

Online sessions are offered by video calls, phone sessions, live chat or text-based messaging, giving flexibility to fit therapy around life. Video calls work well for in-depth conversations and exercises that use visual cues, while phone sessions need less bandwidth and can be easier to fit into a short break. Live chat and text messaging suit brief check-ins, written reflection or people who prefer typing. Registered or accredited professionals can use these formats to deliver the same therapeutic approaches available in person, adapted to the online setting for accessibility and convenience.