Anxiety Counselling

What is anxiety and how can therapy help?

Anxiety can show up as constant worry, racing thoughts, panic, or a sense that you can’t switch off. This can make life feel completely overwhelming.

This might feel like:

Persistent worry or overthinking
Panic symptoms (tight chest, breathlessness, dizziness)
Sleep problems or feeling on edge
People-pleasing or fear of getting things wrong
Perfectionism and self-criticism
Difficulty concentrating
Avoiding situations or feeling stuck
Feeling overwhelmed by change or uncertainty

It can sometimes feel that everyone is talking about looking after your mental health without really understanding what it can feel like to suddenly have recurring fears and worries about everyday life.

There can be points in life where anxiety can be linked - these can range from:

Relationships: Family dynamics, friendships and relationships.
Work related burn-out and perfectionism
Academic and social pressure: Exam stress, fear of failure.
Social media fatigue: Compare and despair. Feelings of inadequacy
Life transitions: University, divorce and separation.
Coping with traumatic events: Illness or bereavement. Unable to cope.

Seeking help

This may be the first time you have considered an open conversation about mental health and I understand it feels like a big step. There is no judgement and the session is a confidential space. I don't offer advice or attempt to 'fix' your anxiety but listen and we work together to explore what may be happening.

As we make sense of these patterns together, anxiety often becomes less consuming and more manageable.

Questions

Do I need a diagnosis to start counselling for anxiety?

No. You don’t need a diagnosis — if anxiety is affecting your day-to-day life, counselling can help.

Can counselling help with panic attacks?

Yes. We can explore triggers and what the panic attack is communicating.

How is psychodynamic counselling different from CBT?

CBT often focuses on tools and thought patterns in the present. Psychodynamic counselling explores underlying emotional themes and longer-term patterns.

How long does counselling for anxiety take?

It varies. Some people come for a focused period; others prefer longer-term work. We can review this together as we go.

What happens in the first session?

We’ll talk about what’s been happening, what you’re hoping for, and whether this feels like the right fit. There’s no pressure to commit.

Do you offer online counselling for anxiety?

Yes. Online sessions can work well for anxiety and can be a good option if travel feels difficult.

How do I get started?

Use the contact form to arrange an initial conversation and we’ll take it from there.