Steve Widdowson

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MNCPS Acc., Dip. Couns (PCA)

About me

Who we are
At Strive, we believe counselling should feel like a steadying, human space where you can talk openly and be met with warmth, compassion and genuine understanding. Life can feel overwhelming or confusing, and you don’t have to carry that alone.

What Strive offers
Strive is an online counselling service offering accessible, inclusive support for adults across the UK. We’re a team of carefully selected trainee and qualified counsellors, each bringing our own therapeutic modality while sharing a common commitment to empathy, integrity and client-led work.

Our therapeutic styles
Our counsellors draw from a range of approaches, including Person-Centred, Integrative and pluralistic models. This diversity allows us to support different needs and ways of working, helping you connect with someone who feels like the right fit.

Who we support
Whether you’re feeling anxious, low, stuck or simply unsure of your next steps, you’re welcome here. Counselling with Strive is a chance to slow down, make sense of what you’re experiencing and find a way forward that feels right for you.

Training, qualifications & experience

My background
I am a qualified Person-Centred counsellor with a Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling (PCA) and Accredited Membership with the National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society (MNCPS Acc). My practice is supported by regular clinical supervision and ongoing professional learning.

How we select counsellors at Strive
All counsellors at Strive, whether qualified or on placement, go through a thorough selection and onboarding process designed to ensure safety, professionalism and high-quality client care.

Placement counsellor requirements
Our placement counsellors:

  • are in the later stages of recognised counselling diplomas
  • have passed readiness-to-practice assessments
  • receive weekly clinical supervision from qualified supervisors
  • are members of and work within clear ethical frameworks (NCPS, BACP etc.)
  • complete a values-led interview and suitability check
  • receive ongoing guidance, case review and oversight

Our commitment to quality
We only work with counsellors who demonstrate competence, integrity and readiness. This ensures that even our low-cost Core service maintains strong therapeutic standards.

Member organisations

Registered / Accredited

Registered / Accredited

Being registered/accredited with a professional body means an individual must have achieved a substantial level of training and experience approved by their member organisation.

NCPS
National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society (NCPS)

The National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society This Not For Profit association of counsellors and psychotherapists aim to support the counselling profession, members and training organisations. In 2013 the NCS register was accredited by the Professional Standards Authority under the Accredited Voluntary Register Scheme. Accredited by the Professional Standards Authority.

Accredited register membership

National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society
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.

National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society

Areas of counselling I deal with

Therapies offered

Photos & videos

Fees

£25.00 - £50.00

Additional information

Clear, accessible pricing
Strive aims to make counselling accessible while offering professional, meaningful therapeutic support.

  • Assessment session: £25 (credited towards your 12th session if counselling continues)
  • Strive Core (placement counsellors): £25 per session
  • Strive Pro (qualified counsellors): £50 per session

Fees are paid at the time of booking via our secure online system.

When I work

Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun
Early morning
Morning
Early afternoon
Late afternoon
Evening

Further information

If you’re unsure about starting counselling
It’s completely normal to feel uncertain when reaching out for support. You’re welcome to get in touch with any questions — you don’t need to have everything figured out first. Reaching out can feel daunting, but it’s a brave and meaningful first step.

A space shaped around you
Counselling at Strive is grounded, relational and human. We work at your pace, with curiosity and compassion, so you have space to explore whatever feels important.

You don’t have to do this alone
Whatever you’re carrying, we’re here to help you explore it safely and supportively.

If you’d like to talk things through or explore whether Strive feels like the right fit, you’re very welcome to get in touch.

Derby, Leicestershire, DE74

Type of session

Online

Types of client

Adults (25-64)
Older Adults (65+)
Organisations
Employee Assistance Programme

Key details

DBS check

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

Google Meet

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