Attachment-based Counselling in Colchester

Photo of Carolyn Bowden, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Carolyn Bowden
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Hi, I'm Carolyn. I'm guessing you've already scrolled through a load of profiles wondering how on earth you chose the right counsellor for you. Overwhelming isn’t it? You already know what's troubling you and what brings you here, be that anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, feelings of aloneness, grief and loss, past or present trauma or simply the feeling that something is "off" and you're not as happy as you could or should be. You've already done the hardest part - recognising you need somebody to talk to, now you just have to find the right somebody for you.
Hi, I'm Carolyn. I'm guessing you've already scrolled through a load of profiles wondering how on earth you chose the right counsellor for you. Overwhelming isn’t it? You already know what's troubling you and what brings you here, be that anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, feelings of aloneness, grief and loss, past or present trauma or simply the feeling that something is "off" and you're not as happy as you could or should be. You've already done the hardest part - recognising you need somebody to talk to, now you just have to find the right somebody for you.
01206 487846 View 01206 487846
Photo of Emma Whitty - Dr Emma Whitty, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Emma Whitty
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I understand that sometimes it is difficult and daunting to know where to start when accessing support. I aim to help provide you with an understanding of your difficulties, your strengths and how to make changes to support your wellbeing. I aim to create a collaborative, safe, empathetic and non-judgmental space for our work. I work in an integrative way using the following evidence based approaches: - Compassion Focused Therapy - Cognitive Behavioural Therapy - Mindfulness - EMDR I support individuals who experience a range of difficulties such as, anxiety, stress, low mood, loss and trauma.
I understand that sometimes it is difficult and daunting to know where to start when accessing support. I aim to help provide you with an understanding of your difficulties, your strengths and how to make changes to support your wellbeing. I aim to create a collaborative, safe, empathetic and non-judgmental space for our work. I work in an integrative way using the following evidence based approaches: - Compassion Focused Therapy - Cognitive Behavioural Therapy - Mindfulness - EMDR I support individuals who experience a range of difficulties such as, anxiety, stress, low mood, loss and trauma.
020 4634 1672 View 020 4634 1672
Photo of Anne Frewin, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Anne Frewin
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Trauma can leave you feeling disconnected or stuck in the past. Sometimes, the most powerful step toward recovery is simply feeling heard, accepted, and truly understood. As a qualified Person-Centred & Trauma-Focused therapist, I provide a compassionate, safe space to process your experiences without judgment. I don’t believe in "one size fits all." Instead, I blend Humanistic values with trauma-focused techniques to empower your unique path to growth. Whether you’re navigating past wounds or seeking self-development, I’m here to support your healing. Level 4 BACP qualified, NCPS Accredited Member, working with adults 18+.
Trauma can leave you feeling disconnected or stuck in the past. Sometimes, the most powerful step toward recovery is simply feeling heard, accepted, and truly understood. As a qualified Person-Centred & Trauma-Focused therapist, I provide a compassionate, safe space to process your experiences without judgment. I don’t believe in "one size fits all." Instead, I blend Humanistic values with trauma-focused techniques to empower your unique path to growth. Whether you’re navigating past wounds or seeking self-development, I’m here to support your healing. Level 4 BACP qualified, NCPS Accredited Member, working with adults 18+.
01702 967266 View 01702 967266
Photo of Ian Rattray, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Ian Rattray
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Are you feeling low, anxious, tired, fed up or alone? Are you navigating challenges with relationships, or stuck in patterns of thinking or behaviour, hurt, unhappy or lost? Is something constantly on your mind, leaving you ill at ease? Or has something knocked you sideways? Are you finding your usual means to cope are not quite enough, or are you switching off, going into overdrive or turning to other strategies in order to keep going? Or are you often angry or critical, hurting or blaming others? Or are you sometimes left thinking you may as well give up or give in? Are you simply overwhelmed or needing help to find direction?
Are you feeling low, anxious, tired, fed up or alone? Are you navigating challenges with relationships, or stuck in patterns of thinking or behaviour, hurt, unhappy or lost? Is something constantly on your mind, leaving you ill at ease? Or has something knocked you sideways? Are you finding your usual means to cope are not quite enough, or are you switching off, going into overdrive or turning to other strategies in order to keep going? Or are you often angry or critical, hurting or blaming others? Or are you sometimes left thinking you may as well give up or give in? Are you simply overwhelmed or needing help to find direction?
01206 239995 View 01206 239995
Photo of Gill Kitchen, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Gill Kitchen
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
When life is a challenge and we feel alone or unsupported, it is my belief that we can all find our 'place of peace'. Sometimes we simply need to connect with the 'right person' for a period of time to re-align our thoughts and feelings. If we can calm our inner self we can give ourselves an opportunity to navigate an alternative pathway to the one that we have found ourselves to be on.
When life is a challenge and we feel alone or unsupported, it is my belief that we can all find our 'place of peace'. Sometimes we simply need to connect with the 'right person' for a period of time to re-align our thoughts and feelings. If we can calm our inner self we can give ourselves an opportunity to navigate an alternative pathway to the one that we have found ourselves to be on.
01206 636401 View 01206 636401
Photo of Jane Susan Smith, Counsellor, MBACP
Jane Susan Smith
Counsellor, MBACP
Deciding to contact a counsellor can feel overwhelming but as a fully qualified counsellor and member of the BACP (British association for psychotherapy) I work to a professional standard and ethic, supporting you on every step of your journey. I work from my private practice which sits on the Essex and Suffolk border, nestled in the Colne valley offering comfortable confidential consulting rooms with discreet parking . My practice is based on person -centred values offering empathic in-depth support which allows you to explore your feelings, beliefs and emotions in a safe confidential space. Weekly, monthly or ad hoc sessions
Deciding to contact a counsellor can feel overwhelming but as a fully qualified counsellor and member of the BACP (British association for psychotherapy) I work to a professional standard and ethic, supporting you on every step of your journey. I work from my private practice which sits on the Essex and Suffolk border, nestled in the Colne valley offering comfortable confidential consulting rooms with discreet parking . My practice is based on person -centred values offering empathic in-depth support which allows you to explore your feelings, beliefs and emotions in a safe confidential space. Weekly, monthly or ad hoc sessions
01206 489875 View 01206 489875
Photo of Angelique Cox - Angelique Cox, Family Therapy, Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Angelique Cox, Family Therapy
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Online Only
Are you struggling to communicate as a family or maybe discussions often end up as arguments ? Perhaps there’s been a significant event recently, for one or all of you, that’s had a big impact and needs talking through together ? Ill health, either physical or mental health, can really affect everyone and when this becomes overwhelming it’s usually helpful to have someone external to the family to process it all with.
Are you struggling to communicate as a family or maybe discussions often end up as arguments ? Perhaps there’s been a significant event recently, for one or all of you, that’s had a big impact and needs talking through together ? Ill health, either physical or mental health, can really affect everyone and when this becomes overwhelming it’s usually helpful to have someone external to the family to process it all with.
01206 489508 View 01206 489508
Photo of Jacqueline Jones - Psychosexual and Relationship Therapy , Psychotherapist, MA, COSRT General
Psychosexual and Relationship Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, COSRT General
3 Endorsed
Sex and relationship difficulties can feel lonely, painful and hard to name. I am a Psychosexual and Relationship Therapist, often called a sex therapist, supporting couples, throuples and individuals online and in Essex. I work with low desire, mismatched desire, painful sex, erection or ejaculation difficulties, orgasm concerns, porn-related worries, affairs, secrecy, shame and relationship crisis. My approach is warm, practical and direct where helpful.
Sex and relationship difficulties can feel lonely, painful and hard to name. I am a Psychosexual and Relationship Therapist, often called a sex therapist, supporting couples, throuples and individuals online and in Essex. I work with low desire, mismatched desire, painful sex, erection or ejaculation difficulties, orgasm concerns, porn-related worries, affairs, secrecy, shame and relationship crisis. My approach is warm, practical and direct where helpful.
020 3909 9848 View 020 3909 9848
Photo of Rachel Green - Rachel Green Art Therapy, MA
Rachel Green Art Therapy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
My name is Rachel, and I am an Art Psychotherapist based in Colchester, Essex. I have an MA in Art Psychotherapy from Goldsmiths College, University of London. I practise using a non-directive psychodynamic approach, which means you are free to use the art materials in your own way. This method encourages exploration of how past experiences may influence your current thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Through this process, we can build trust, self-awareness, and help you better understand your emotions and behaviours.
My name is Rachel, and I am an Art Psychotherapist based in Colchester, Essex. I have an MA in Art Psychotherapy from Goldsmiths College, University of London. I practise using a non-directive psychodynamic approach, which means you are free to use the art materials in your own way. This method encourages exploration of how past experiences may influence your current thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Through this process, we can build trust, self-awareness, and help you better understand your emotions and behaviours.
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Photo of Mark John Penfold, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Mark John Penfold
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Hi, I'm Mark a counsellor who specialises in working with couples who have disconnected and wish to rediscover their emotional bond through better forms of empathic communication and achieve healthy confrontation to help de-escalate cycles of conflict where they are blaming, attacking and withdrawing from one another. My aim is work with them to reach a place where they once again feel like a team who can resolve things in a healthy way. Other issues covered include discovering each other's love language and rebuilding trust. I provide online counselling using Zoom, Skype or WhatsApp and phone counselling.
Hi, I'm Mark a counsellor who specialises in working with couples who have disconnected and wish to rediscover their emotional bond through better forms of empathic communication and achieve healthy confrontation to help de-escalate cycles of conflict where they are blaming, attacking and withdrawing from one another. My aim is work with them to reach a place where they once again feel like a team who can resolve things in a healthy way. Other issues covered include discovering each other's love language and rebuilding trust. I provide online counselling using Zoom, Skype or WhatsApp and phone counselling.
01206 879958 View 01206 879958
Photo of Beth Rogan, Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Beth Rogan
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
A warm, relational approach is the foundation of my work with children, young people and their parents. As an Integrative Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist, I aim to enable each person to communicate and feel understood from the depth of their experience. This means finding each person's unique ways of expressing themselves, and tailoring my technique to meet them "where they're at". I create a safe space so that children and young people are able to bring their most painful feelings and thoughts out into the room with me. At the same time, humour and fun are important elements of my work.
A warm, relational approach is the foundation of my work with children, young people and their parents. As an Integrative Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist, I aim to enable each person to communicate and feel understood from the depth of their experience. This means finding each person's unique ways of expressing themselves, and tailoring my technique to meet them "where they're at". I create a safe space so that children and young people are able to bring their most painful feelings and thoughts out into the room with me. At the same time, humour and fun are important elements of my work.
01206 986578 View 01206 986578
Photo of Kristina England, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Kristina England
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Online Only
Modern life can leave our nervous systems trapped in constant distress, manifesting as overwhelming anxiety, chronic burnout, or a heavy depression that makes day-to-day life exhausting. You might find your relationships feeling strained, or find yourself navigating complex identity issues—feeling disconnected from who you are and unsure how to move forward. I provide a calm, confidential online space where we can untangle these struggles together. Whether you are feeling stuck, empty, or completely overwhelmed, you don't have to navigate it alone.
Modern life can leave our nervous systems trapped in constant distress, manifesting as overwhelming anxiety, chronic burnout, or a heavy depression that makes day-to-day life exhausting. You might find your relationships feeling strained, or find yourself navigating complex identity issues—feeling disconnected from who you are and unsure how to move forward. I provide a calm, confidential online space where we can untangle these struggles together. Whether you are feeling stuck, empty, or completely overwhelmed, you don't have to navigate it alone.
020 4634 3083 View 020 4634 3083
Photo of Ellen Friend, Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Ellen Friend
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
I work with people that have experienced trauma so that they can feel safe in the present and look to the future with openness. My core training is integrative, which means that I draw from multiple theories and frameworks to offer a broad spectrum of support to the people I work with. My most recent training is psychoanalytic, which enables me to work over longer periods of time, for those that want to explore a more in-depth approach to the psyche.
I work with people that have experienced trauma so that they can feel safe in the present and look to the future with openness. My core training is integrative, which means that I draw from multiple theories and frameworks to offer a broad spectrum of support to the people I work with. My most recent training is psychoanalytic, which enables me to work over longer periods of time, for those that want to explore a more in-depth approach to the psyche.
01206 699903 View 01206 699903
Photo of Roisin Robinson-Fitzsimmons, Counsellor, MBACP
Roisin Robinson-Fitzsimmons
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
I support children and teenagers (5–18) who may be feeling anxious, low in mood, overwhelmed, or struggling with school, friendships, or confidence. Many find it difficult to talk about how they feel or may be experiencing emotional or behavioural changes. I have experience working within NHS Camhs and private practice, supporting a range of emotional and mental health needs. I also work with neurodivergent young people, including those with Autism and ADHD, offering a calm, supportive space where they can feel understood and make sense of what they are experiencing.
I support children and teenagers (5–18) who may be feeling anxious, low in mood, overwhelmed, or struggling with school, friendships, or confidence. Many find it difficult to talk about how they feel or may be experiencing emotional or behavioural changes. I have experience working within NHS Camhs and private practice, supporting a range of emotional and mental health needs. I also work with neurodivergent young people, including those with Autism and ADHD, offering a calm, supportive space where they can feel understood and make sense of what they are experiencing.
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Photo of Dr Liz Wiltshire, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Liz Wiltshire
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Hello, I'm Liz. I'm a HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist. I have experience working with people of all ages who are presenting with a wide range of emotional, behavioural and relationship issues, including low mood and anxiety; emotional regulation; the impact of stressful events and past trauma.
Hello, I'm Liz. I'm a HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist. I have experience working with people of all ages who are presenting with a wide range of emotional, behavioural and relationship issues, including low mood and anxiety; emotional regulation; the impact of stressful events and past trauma.
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Photo of James Rodwell, Counsellor, MBACP
James Rodwell
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
That first step into counselling can feel daunting. My priority is to welcome you when we meet. I'm qualified, experienced and offer a half price first session, usually within a week of contact. Saturday and weekday sessions are available. We all find things hard at times in our lives. When we do, it can be good to work through our thoughts and feelings with someone who seeks to understand, not judge us, and offers helpful reflection on our situation.
That first step into counselling can feel daunting. My priority is to welcome you when we meet. I'm qualified, experienced and offer a half price first session, usually within a week of contact. Saturday and weekday sessions are available. We all find things hard at times in our lives. When we do, it can be good to work through our thoughts and feelings with someone who seeks to understand, not judge us, and offers helpful reflection on our situation.
01206 583534 View 01206 583534
Photo of Leonie Holmes, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Leonie Holmes
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Welcome! I am an experienced and accredited counsellor based in Colchester who truly gets it! I work sensitively with adults struggling with childhood Trauma, ADHD, and Anxiety. You won't find me suited and booted with a notebook, but more likely a friendly smile, trainers, and a cup of tea in hand. I came to therapy work through my journey with trauma, ADHD, parenthood, and all the colourful events that life throws at you. I show up as me, hopefully someone you can relate to and feel comfortable with. I will never leave you lost, sitting in silence and feeling analysed.
Welcome! I am an experienced and accredited counsellor based in Colchester who truly gets it! I work sensitively with adults struggling with childhood Trauma, ADHD, and Anxiety. You won't find me suited and booted with a notebook, but more likely a friendly smile, trainers, and a cup of tea in hand. I came to therapy work through my journey with trauma, ADHD, parenthood, and all the colourful events that life throws at you. I show up as me, hopefully someone you can relate to and feel comfortable with. I will never leave you lost, sitting in silence and feeling analysed.
01206 489708 View 01206 489708
Photo of Rachel Anderson, Counsellor, MBACP
Rachel Anderson
Counsellor, MBACP
Life often feels overwhelming, filled with challenges that tug at our inner peace. If you’ve been searching for a space to reconnect, to process, and to grow, I’m here to guide you with a holistic and empowering approach. My practice has evolved to go beyond traditional methods. My sessions now integrate a blend of talk therapy, hypnotherapy, and personalized self-guidance tools to empower you to take ownership of your healing process. At the heart of my work is the belief that transformation arises when we feel safe, seen, and supported.
Life often feels overwhelming, filled with challenges that tug at our inner peace. If you’ve been searching for a space to reconnect, to process, and to grow, I’m here to guide you with a holistic and empowering approach. My practice has evolved to go beyond traditional methods. My sessions now integrate a blend of talk therapy, hypnotherapy, and personalized self-guidance tools to empower you to take ownership of your healing process. At the heart of my work is the belief that transformation arises when we feel safe, seen, and supported.
01206 237336 View 01206 237336
Photo of Eleanor Cornell, Counsellor, MBACP
Eleanor Cornell
Counsellor, MBACP
Hi there, my name is Ellie and I am a Counsellor specializing in trauma and the common coping skills that develop from it's effects. These include the areas of disordered eating, body image issues (including body dysmorphia), addiction (self-medicating to avoid the effects of trauma), being drawn to abusive relationships and patterns of becoming stuck and paralyzed in these damaging dynamics. The heart of my therapeutic work is to help clients discover their authentic self and to gently dis-engage from painful old beliefs they may have internalized from complex and overwhelming environments.
Hi there, my name is Ellie and I am a Counsellor specializing in trauma and the common coping skills that develop from it's effects. These include the areas of disordered eating, body image issues (including body dysmorphia), addiction (self-medicating to avoid the effects of trauma), being drawn to abusive relationships and patterns of becoming stuck and paralyzed in these damaging dynamics. The heart of my therapeutic work is to help clients discover their authentic self and to gently dis-engage from painful old beliefs they may have internalized from complex and overwhelming environments.
01376 319243 View 01376 319243
Photo of Laura Eardley - Revive Therapy - Laura Eardley, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Revive Therapy - Laura Eardley
Psychotherapist, MBACP
I specialise and work with individuals and couples who seek to improve their emotional well-being and relationship dynamics. They may be dealing with issues such as communication breakdowns, emotional disconnection, anxiety, or unresolved conflicts that impact their daily lives. Their needs include finding a safe and supportive space to explore their feelings, gain clarity, and work towards healing. Their goals are to build stronger connections, achieve personal growth, and create healthier, more fulfilling relationships. They want to feel understood, validated, and empowered to make positive changes in their lives.
I specialise and work with individuals and couples who seek to improve their emotional well-being and relationship dynamics. They may be dealing with issues such as communication breakdowns, emotional disconnection, anxiety, or unresolved conflicts that impact their daily lives. Their needs include finding a safe and supportive space to explore their feelings, gain clarity, and work towards healing. Their goals are to build stronger connections, achieve personal growth, and create healthier, more fulfilling relationships. They want to feel understood, validated, and empowered to make positive changes in their lives.
020 4572 4355 View 020 4572 4355

See more therapy options for Colchester

Attachment-based Counsellors
Is attachment-based therapy the same as attachment therapy?
Attachment-based therapy may be confused with what is called “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy”), a discredited and dangerous approach to treating children with attachment disorders, autism, or other mental health concerns. Attachment therapy—not attachment-based therapy—may involve restraining a child, forcing eye contact, and other coercive or abusive techniques. None of these practices are used in attachment-based therapy and the two modalities are in no way related.

What should I expect from attachment-based therapy?
Attachment-based therapy is based on attachment theory, which posits that children’s early relationships with their caregivers strongly influence their ability to navigate the world later in life. Thus, adults who seek attachment-based therapy should expect to deeply explore their childhood, identifying the dynamics or experiences that disrupted their attachment and the steps necessary to overcome challenges that arose as a result. Parents and children should expect to explore the possible factors that disrupted the parent-child relationship and work toward restoring trust and connection.

How long does attachment-based therapy last?
Certain forms of attachment-based therapy, especially those designed for parents and children, last for a set number of sessions; for example, Attachment and Biobehavioural Catch-Up, a specific attachment-based approach for young children who have undergone early adversity, unfolds over 10 one-hour sessions. When attachment-based therapy is practiced on adults or combined with other modalities, it may not last a specific length of time; clients may wish to ask prospective therapists how long they expect treatment to take.

Does attachment-based therapy work?
Most of the research on attachment-based therapy focuses on children and adolescents. Some of this research shows a positive effect, especially for attachment-based family therapy (ABFT). Other studies, however, have found that attachment-based therapy is no more effective than other approaches to childhood depression, anxiety, or suicidality. Less is known about the therapy’s efficacy on adult populations.