Anthea Smyth

Life can feel overwhelming at times. You may be struggling with anxiety, trauma, OCD, ADHD, loneliness, low mood or relationship difficulties. Perhaps you've experienced a significant life event, feel stuck in unhelpful patterns, or have reached a point where you're no longer coping in the way you once did.

You don't need to have everything figured out before coming to counselling. Many people begin therapy simply because something doesn't feel right, even if they can't quite put it into words. Together we can explore your experiences at a pace that feels comfortable for you, helping you gain a deeper understanding of yourself and find new ways of moving forward.

I am a BACP registered integrative counsellor. My approach is warm, collaborative and compassionate, providing a confidential, non-judgemental space where you can talk openly about whatever is on your mind.

I draw on humanistic, psychodynamic and cognitive behavioural approaches, tailoring therapy to your individual needs rather than expecting you to fit a particular model. My work is also informed by trauma theory, attachment, existential and depth psychology, recognising that our emotional wellbeing is shaped not only by present circumstances but also by our past experiences, relationships and the search for meaning in our lives.

Alongside my counselling qualification, I hold an MSc in Psychology (Distinction) and continue to develop my practice through ongoing professional training and clinical supervision.

How I work
No two people are the same, so I don't believe there is a single approach that works for everyone. Together we'll develop a way of working that feels right for you.

Our first session is an opportunity to explore what has brought you to therapy, what you hope to gain, and whether we're a good fit to work together. From there, sessions provide a regular space to reflect, make sense of difficult experiences, understand recurring patterns and develop healthier ways of relating to yourself and others.

While therapy can help reduce distressing symptoms such as anxiety, overwhelm or low mood, it can also offer an opportunity for deeper self-understanding, greater self-acceptance and lasting personal growth.

Above all, I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is central to meaningful change. My aim is to create a space where you feel heard, respected and accepted, allowing you to explore your experiences honestly and without fear of judgement.

Areas I work with
Alongside supporting clients with anxiety, trauma, depression, ADHD, OCD, relationship difficulties and loneliness, I also welcome those exploring questions of identity, purpose and meaning. Sometimes the deepest changes come not from becoming someone different, but from understanding yourself more fully.

I have a particular interest in existential and transpersonal issues, including midlife crisis, existential anxiety, spiritual emergence, questions of meaning and purpose, and the deeper challenges that can arise as our understanding of ourselves evolves. Whether you are facing a major life transition, questioning long-held assumptions, or sensing that something essential is missing despite external achievements, therapy can offer a space for exploration, integration and growth.

I offer an initial complimentary 30-minute video call to explore if we might work together. Get in touch to schedule.