David Pender

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Pronoun: he
MBACP, Transformational | Specialising in Anxiety
Accepting new clients
Accepting new clients

This professional is available for new clients.

location_on London E1 & Woodford Green IG8
Accepting new clients
Accepting new clients

This professional is available for new clients.

About me

Do you find yourself constantly under pressure, juggling multiple responsibilities and deadlines, with little to no time for relaxation?

If you're a high-achieving professional, the answer is likely a resounding 'yes'. This constant push to excel and the inability to power down can lead to an all-too-common feeling of being overwhelmed, isolated, and, ultimately, burned out. Stress affects professionals at all levels, but high-achieving individuals are particularly vulnerable due to their relentless pursuit of excellence and perfection. However, the good news is that chronic stress can be managed, significantly improving your overall well-being and work-life balance.

  As an experienced anxiety counsellor, I provide a safe, nurturing space where individuals can confront their fears, manage overwhelming emotions, and rediscover a sense of calm. My approach is empathetic, evidence-based, and tailored to meet the unique needs of every individual. I view anxiety not as a weakness but as a signal from within, guiding us toward understanding, growth, and healing.

Holistic Approach to Healing 

 
True emotional healing requires addressing the mind, body, and spirit. I incorporate various techniques, including cognitive-behavioural strategies, mindfulness practices, and grounding exercises. I work collaboratively with my clients to identify the root causes of their anxiety and develop sustainable coping mechanisms that fit their lifestyles and values.

Creating a Judgment-Free Zone

Anxiety can feel isolating, but you don't have to navigate it alone. My sessions provide a compassionate, non-judgmental environment where clients feel heard and supported. Together, we uncover the thoughts and beliefs contributing to anxiety, fostering self-awareness and self-compassion as vital steps toward healing.

Empowering Self-Discovery

  
I see myself as a guide, helping clients reconnect with their inner strength and resilience. Anxiety often clouds our perception of ourselves, but through therapeutic exploration, I help individuals tap into their potential and rediscover their confidence. By embracing vulnerability, we can transform fear into empowerment.

Building Tools for Life

  
I aim to alleviate immediate symptoms and equip my clients with tools and techniques for long-term emotional wellness. From learning to manage triggers to developing healthier thought patterns, I ensure every client leaves each session feeling better equipped to handle life's challenges.

A Partner in Your Journey

 
Healing is not a straight path, but I'm here to walk it with you every step of the way. Whether it's overcoming social anxiety, managing panic attacks, or simply finding moments of peace amidst the chaos, I am committed to helping you thrive. We will celebrate your progress and work toward a life whole of balance, joy, and emotional freedom.

How does this sound based on what you had in mind? Let me know if you'd like adjustments!

Core Focus Areas

  • Anxiety Management
  • Utilising cognitive-behavioural techniques to identify and challenge negative thought patterns.
  • Implementing relaxation and mindfulness practices to reduce anxiety symptoms.
  • Developing personalised coping strategies to manage stress and anxiety effectively.


Addressing Low Self-Worth

  • Exploring the roots of low self-esteem and building a positive self-image.
  • Encouraging self-compassion and self-acceptance.
  • Setting achievable goals to foster a sense of accomplishment and self-worth.
  • Overcoming Perfectionism and Feelings of Not Being Good Enough
  • Identifying perfectionistic tendencies and understanding their impact on mental health.
  • Creating realistic standards and expectations to reduce self-imposed pressure.
  • Promoting a growth mindset and celebrating progress over perfection.

Tackling Procrastination

Analysing the underlying causes of procrastination, such as fear of failure or overwhelming tasks.

Developing time management and organisational skills.

Using motivational techniques to increase productivity and reduce procrastination.

Navigating "Ifs and Buts" Thinking

  • Challenging catastrophic thinking and the overuse of hypothetical scenarios.
  • Encouraging present-focused thinking and realistic goal setting.
  • Building resilience to handle uncertainty and change.
  • Finding Purpose and Self-Connection
  • Assisting in the exploration of personal values, interests, and passions.
  • Encouraging engagement in meaningful activities that align with one's purpose.
  • Strengthening self-awareness and promoting personal growth through reflective practices.
  • Anxiety can significantly impact relationships, often manifesting in various ways. One common manifestation is constant worry and overthinking. Individuals with anxiety might excessively analyse their partner's words and actions, seeking hidden meanings or potential signs of issues. This can lead to misunderstandings, as the anxious person may misinterpret neutral or positive interactions as harmful or threatening, creating unnecessary tension and conflict.

Approach

This counselling profile adopts an integrative approach, combining cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, and authentic being. The emphasis is on creating a supportive and non-judgmental environment where men can openly discuss their concerns and work towards positive change. By addressing anxiety and its related issues holistically, this approach aims to enhance overall mental well-being and personal fulfilment.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, navigating life's challenges can be less daunting when you have a compassionate, non-judgmental, confidential source of facilitation to explore new opportunities. By offering a free introductory call, I allow you to experience firsthand how my support can make a difference. With sessions priced at a reasonable £60, I offer online and a limited number of face-to-face appointments in Maidenhead to serve East Berkshire. I aim to make effective and empathetic guidance accessible to those in need. Let's work together to ease your internal pressure and help you find clarity and balance in your life.

Areas of Specialisation:

Fears That Limit You: Together, we will identify the fears that hold you back from living your entire life and develop strategies to overcome them.

The Root of Your Self-Talk: Uncover the origins of your inner dialogue and reshape it into a more positive and empowering narrative.

The Thoughts That Keep You Awake at Night: Address anxiety and overthinking by learning techniques to calm your mind and find peace.

Childhood Wounds: Heal from past traumas that continue to impact your present, fostering resilience and growth.

Past Relationships That Hurt You: Process and recover from relationships that have caused pain, enabling you to move forward confidently and clearly.

Grudges You Hold: Work through unresolved anger and learn to let go, freeing yourself from the burden of past grievances.

Internalised Shame & Guilt: Address feelings of shame and guilt that undermine your self-worth, fostering a healthier self-image.

Why Choose Me:

Choosing the right counsellor is a profoundly personal decision. With years of experience and a genuine commitment to your well-being, I am here to support you every step of the way. Let's work together to transform pain into power and create the life you deserve.

Collaborative Goal Setting: We'll define and work towards your aspirations.
. Don't hesitate to seek help. Being vulnerable takes courage, but it is the first step toward meaningful change. You are worth it.

  • Integrative counselling
  • Anxiety specialist
  • Trauma practitioner
  • Addiction trained

Contact Information:

  • BACP Registered. If you feel ready for empowerment in 2025, please get in touch with me to book a free consultation. You can book this conveniently here, call me at 07391 279680 or 02036 217 939, or email me.

* Please note that I work online for many anxiety sufferers; access from home is a tremendous benefit.

My Psychotherapy begins with a free Google Meet or Zoom chat to discuss your requirements. We work on an open-ended basis, and all that is required is seven days' notice of termination when you want to take a break.

  • Appointments are priced at a very reasonable £60 per session.
  • Payment is by BACS weekly in advance before each session.

Training, qualifications & experience

  • BA(Hons) Integrative Counselling
  • Registered on B.A.C.P Register 
  • Gold Standard Trauma Informed Practitioner
  • Certificate of Online Telephone & Internet  Competency 
  • Access to Higher Education Diploma (Psycho social Studies)
  • CP CAB Lv2 Counselling Skills  Lv 3 Counselling Studies
  • Certificate of Facilitation Skills
  • R.A.P.t Addiction Training 

Member organisations

BACP
British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP)

BACP is one of the UK’s leading professional bodies for counselling and psychotherapy with around 60,000 members. The Association has several different categories of membership, including Student Member, Individual Member, Registered Member MBACP, Registered Accredited Member MBACP (Accred) and Senior Registered Accredited Member MBACP (Snr Acccred). Registered and accredited members are listed on the BACP Register, which shows that they have demonstrated BACP’s recommended standards for training, proficiency and ethical practice. The BACP Register was the first register of psychological therapists to be accredited by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA). Accredited and senior accredited membership are voluntary categories for members who choose to undertake a rigorous application and assessment process to demonstrate additional standards around practice, training and supervision. Individual members will have completed an appropriate counselling or psychotherapy course and started to practise, but they won’t appear on the BACP Register until they've demonstrated that they meet the standards for registration. Student members are still in the process of completing their training. All members are bound by the BACP Ethical Framework and a Professional Conduct Procedure.

Accredited register membership

British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy
Accredited Register Scheme

The Accredited Register Scheme was set up in 2013 by the Department of Health (DoH) as a way to recognise organisations that hold voluntary registers which meet certain standards. These standards are set by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA).

This therapist has indicated that they belong to an Accredited Register.

British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy

Areas of counselling I deal with

Photos & videos

Fees

£60.00 per session
Free initial telephone or online session

When I work

Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun
Morning
Afternoon
Evening
Night

Further information

Anxiety in London: Navigating Mental Health Challenges

Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or suffering from trauma in the bustling city of London? You’re not alone. The fast-paced lifestyle, constant stimuli, and high expectations can affect anyone’s mental well-being. But fear not; help and support are available through my website link, email or telephone.

Understanding Anxiety

Anxiety is more than just occasional worry; it’s a persistent feeling of unease, fear, or apprehension. Whether triggered by work pressures, social situations, or personal concerns, anxiety can impact your daily life and relationships.

Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student, or a lifelong Londoner, prioritising your mental health matters. Reach out, connect, and take steps toward healing. You’re not alone on this journey!

Published articles

London, Greater London, E1

Woodford Green, Greater London, IG8

Type of session

In person
Online
Phone

Types of client

Young adults (18-24)
Adults (25-64)
Older Adults (65+)
Groups
Organisations

Key details

DBS check info

In England and Wales, the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS, formerly known as CRB) carry out criminal records checks for individuals working with vulnerable groups, such as children. To find out more, visit gov.uk , or contact this professional directly

Online platforms

Zoom
Google Meet

Social