About me

I find it is helpful to know a little about a counsellor before engaging their services. As such, i have included below a short background to illustrate how I have reached this point in my career.
If you have any further questions, would like to know more about my qualifications or references, then please do not hesitate to contact me directly.
​- Matthew Smith (Msc, Bsc (Hons), MBACP Accred)

I am an experienced, accredited counsellor and psychotherapist who works with adults from all backgrounds.
I work with various issues including anxiety, depression, phobias, relationship issues, bereavement, PTSD and trauma.
I chose initially to train as a person-centred counsellor, as the core conditions of empathy, congruence and unconditional positive regard are vitally important to developing a therapeutic alliance. It is my firm belief that it is “the relationship that heals” and as such, I like to develop a collaborative approach to working with all my clients.

In addition to my person-centred roots, I draw from various theories to meet each of my clients own unique requirements. These approaches include CBT, Solution Focused Brief Therapy and EMDR.

I am a registered, accredited member of the BACP. I work within the private sector and alongside various EAP and insurers. As a result, I have experience working with clients from a range of industries and personal backgrounds.
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An initial meeting will allow us both to decide if we can work effectively together, and to establish your goals from therapy and beyond. It also enables me to make an informed choice about which approach would be best to meet your needs. Clients often describe that feeling heard and understood in this first meeting is therapeutic in itself and provides a sense of hope and direction for the future.