Mark Smith

Mark Smith is a counsellor with 12 years' experience who helps people facing stress, anxiety, trauma and abuse, depression, low self-esteem and relationship concerns. He also works with issues such as body image, grief, anger and coping with major life changes. Mark holds BACP registration and practises in the United Kingdom, offering a calm, non-judgemental space where people can talk things through.

Mark uses an integrative style that draws on several therapy models to suit each person's needs. He listens first to understand what matters to you, then agrees a practical way forward. Some people prefer shorter, solution-focused work; others choose a slower, open-ended approach and Mark adapts to match that pace.

His approach includes client-centred work that prioritises the person's own goals and experiences. He also applies cognitive behavioural ideas to identify unhelpful patterns and test new ways of thinking and behaving. For people with trauma-related difficulties he uses trauma-focused techniques to reduce distress and build coping strategies.

Sessions are offered with an empathic, straightforward style that aims to make difficult conversations easier. Mark often combines insight-focused discussion with concrete steps you can try between sessions. He supports people dealing with complex issues such as attachment and abandonment, narcissistic relationships, first responder and veteran-related stress, and recovery from sexual assault.

If you are unsure where to start, Mark can help you clarify goals and plan the next steps. The first sessions are used to agree what you want from therapy and to set a working pace that feels manageable.

How Mark's approaches translate to online therapy

Mark uses client-centred work to focus on each person's priorities. This approach means sessions begin by hearing your concerns and setting goals together, which helps keep online meetings relevant and practical.

He also draws on cognitive behavioural therapy, which looks at thoughts and behaviours that keep problems going and tests small, doable changes. CBT techniques can be practised between sessions and reviewed together in subsequent meetings to track progress.

Finding the right approach is part of the process. Mark will work collaboratively to decide which methods suit your situation and goals. That might mean a mix of shorter, task-focused work and longer reflective sessions depending on what you need.

Please confirm the current session options before booking, as formats are not specified here. Online work can make it easier to fit therapy around busy lives, reduce travel time and allow for flexible scheduling. Some people choose audio-only check-ins when they need a shorter conversation or lower bandwidth, while others prefer longer conversations to work through deeper issues. Registered or accredited professionals can help you weigh these choices and plan sessions that fit your routine and goals.