Karen Reader, BACP

Karen Reader uses a straightforward, people-focused approach to help clients face stress, anxiety and life changes. She is a BACP counsellor with three years of professional experience and aims to make the first step easier for anyone who feels unsure about therapy.

She works in a calm, non-judgemental way so people can talk through what matters most to them. Sessions focus on practical steps as well as understanding feelings. She pays attention to things like low mood, motivation, confidence and coping after loss.

Counselling often looks at patterns that keep problems going and explores small, workable changes. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) techniques may be used to spot unhelpful thoughts and test new behaviours. Client-Centred Therapy is used to give people space to lead the conversation and be heard.

Sessions can cover family conflict and parenting pressures while keeping the person’s own needs in view. The aim is to help people build tools they can use between meetings to manage stress and difficult times.

Karen encourages clear, practical plans and gentle progress rather than fast fixes. She supports people as they try out new ways of coping and reflect on what helps them feel steadier.

How her approaches work in online therapy

Client-Centred Therapy is about giving people space to speak and be heard. The counsellor follows the pace set by the client and offers non-judgemental support to help identify what matters most. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, or CBT, focuses on spotting unhelpful thoughts and testing small changes in behaviour to reduce stress and low mood. It is often used for anxiety, depression and coping with difficult situations.

Choosing the right approach is part of the work together. She will listen to your goals and preferences, explain different ways of working, and agree on a plan that fits what you want to achieve. The process is collaborative and adjustable as progress is made.

Online therapy can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy week and reduce travel time. If you need quieter surroundings or a shorter check-in, that can be arranged depending on session options. Please confirm which session formats are available before booking so you know how meetings will be run.