MindScreening
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Michael Hawthorne

Counselling for stress, anxiety and addiction

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  • Stress
  • Anxiety
  • Addictions

About Michael

Michael Hawthorne works on stress, anxiety, addiction concerns, LGBT issues, relationship difficulties and depression, using straightforward conversation and practical steps to help people move forward. He is a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and has three years of professional experience.

He focuses on clear, direct work in sessions. That can mean talking through what causes distress, identifying unhelpful patterns, and trying small changes between meetings. Sessions aim to be focused and practical, not full of jargon.

Michael pays attention to how people relate to others and to themselves, so attachment and communication issues are often part of the work. He also addresses feelings of guilt, shame, isolation and low self-worth. Social anxiety and phobia are included among his concerns.

His approach is collaborative: he and the person set goals and test what helps. He adapts the plan as progress is seen or when problems shift. The emphasis is on manageable steps rather than long programmes.

Michael works in English and practises in the United Kingdom. He uses a subscription model for sessions that can be cancelled at any time; the cost varies with location. To start, select the Talk to a counsellor online button, complete a short matching questionnaire and schedule a first session.

Therapeutic approaches and how online sessions work

Michael uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques to guide the work. One common approach focuses on understanding patterns of thinking and behaviour, helping people spot triggers and try different responses; this can help with anxiety, low mood and social fears. Another approach looks at relationships and attachment, examining how past and current relationships shape reactions and communication, which can be useful for relationship difficulties and feelings of isolation.

Deciding which approach to use is collaborative. The therapist will discuss options, set clear goals with the client, and adjust methods based on progress and preferences. The plan may combine elements from different approaches to suit practical aims rather than sticking to a single method.

Confirm the available session formats before booking, as the biography does not list specific formats. Online sessions can make it easier to fit counselling into a busy life, for example by avoiding travel or fitting a short check-in around work. They also allow sessions without being on camera if that is easier, or a longer video session when more time is needed. Ask about current session options when you schedule so the format matches your needs and day-to-day routine.

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Topics Michael lists

Questions about Michael

Does he work with anxiety?
Yes. Anxiety and social anxiety or phobia are listed among his main concerns.
What kind of counselling does he offer?
He uses straightforward, practical sessions that focus on conversation, goal-setting and small changes between meetings.
How much experience does he have?
He has three years of professional work experience.
Is he accredited or registered?
He is a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).
What languages are available?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can international clients work with him?
He does not accept international clients at this time.
How are sessions arranged and paid for?
Sessions use a subscription that can be cancelled at any time and the cost varies with location.
How do I get started?
Click the Talk to a counsellor online button, complete the short matching questionnaire and then schedule your first session.

This page is based on Michael's public BetterHelp listing and is not written by Michael. It is not a recommendation. If anything here is wrong, tell us and we will correct it.

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