Attachment-based Counselling in Manchester

Photo of Ch'maine Charlotte Anne Robinson - Calming Minds Soothing Souls Therapies MBACP, Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Calming Minds Soothing Souls Therapies MBACP
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy brings clarity, helping you make effective decisions and positive changes in thoughts, attitudes, and behaviours. It's not about advice giving but creating space to talk, explore, and reach your own realisations. The goal is to feel more equipped to make choices and move forward with confidence and wellbeing. Hypnotherapy & mindfulness can be introduced as a type of complementary therapy—hypnosis promotes focus and openness to positive change, while mindfulness helps keep you grounded in the present.
Therapy brings clarity, helping you make effective decisions and positive changes in thoughts, attitudes, and behaviours. It's not about advice giving but creating space to talk, explore, and reach your own realisations. The goal is to feel more equipped to make choices and move forward with confidence and wellbeing. Hypnotherapy & mindfulness can be introduced as a type of complementary therapy—hypnosis promotes focus and openness to positive change, while mindfulness helps keep you grounded in the present.
0161 850 4018 View 0161 850 4018
Photo of Ben Bamber - benbambercounselling, Counsellor, BACP
benbambercounselling
Counsellor, BACP
I am a qualified person-centred counsellor, based in south Manchester. I specialise in person-centred counselling and cognitive behavioural therapy and offer both in person (walk and talk therapy and online sessions). I believe everyone should have the opportunity to feel listened too, accepted without fear of judgement and feel welcomed in a safe space. I have six years of experience working in mental clinical settings supporting individuals through addiction, eating disorders, psychosis, bipolar, PTSD and depression. My other passion is voluntary work supporting individuals with HIV/AIDS, fighting stigma.
I am a qualified person-centred counsellor, based in south Manchester. I specialise in person-centred counselling and cognitive behavioural therapy and offer both in person (walk and talk therapy and online sessions). I believe everyone should have the opportunity to feel listened too, accepted without fear of judgement and feel welcomed in a safe space. I have six years of experience working in mental clinical settings supporting individuals through addiction, eating disorders, psychosis, bipolar, PTSD and depression. My other passion is voluntary work supporting individuals with HIV/AIDS, fighting stigma.
0161 524 4945 View 0161 524 4945
Photo of Adam Laidler, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Adam Laidler
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Expecting to have some enjoyment and a sense of fulfilment in life is not a pipe dream – it’s your purpose and your right. If you’re like 99% of others, then you can’t quit your job and travel the world because a quote on social media told you that’s how to be happy. Life is tough, and things often get thrown our way that knock us sideways. You might even be waking up more than you’d care to asking: “what is the point in all this?”. Or maybe you feel stuck in a cycle, struggling to make changes in your life? You're not alone, and you don't have to feel this way.
Expecting to have some enjoyment and a sense of fulfilment in life is not a pipe dream – it’s your purpose and your right. If you’re like 99% of others, then you can’t quit your job and travel the world because a quote on social media told you that’s how to be happy. Life is tough, and things often get thrown our way that knock us sideways. You might even be waking up more than you’d care to asking: “what is the point in all this?”. Or maybe you feel stuck in a cycle, struggling to make changes in your life? You're not alone, and you don't have to feel this way.
0161 694 6338 View 0161 694 6338
Photo of Nigel Magowan, Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Nigel Magowan
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
1 Endorsed
I am an experienced psychotherapist and have been in full-time private practice in Manchester since 2002. I use a flexible integrative approach and offer both long-term psychotherapy and counselling, as well as short-term therapies. I integrate psychotherapy with CBT, EMDR, Somatic Therapies, IFS, Focusing, DBT Skills, DBR, NLP and life coaching. I have experience of working with a wide range of issues including anxiety, PTSD, Complex PTSD, bereavement, BPD, depression, stress, abuse, generalised anxiety, OCD, public speaking, low self-esteem, relationship issues, shame, IBS and pain management. I am BACP and UKCP registered.
I am an experienced psychotherapist and have been in full-time private practice in Manchester since 2002. I use a flexible integrative approach and offer both long-term psychotherapy and counselling, as well as short-term therapies. I integrate psychotherapy with CBT, EMDR, Somatic Therapies, IFS, Focusing, DBT Skills, DBR, NLP and life coaching. I have experience of working with a wide range of issues including anxiety, PTSD, Complex PTSD, bereavement, BPD, depression, stress, abuse, generalised anxiety, OCD, public speaking, low self-esteem, relationship issues, shame, IBS and pain management. I am BACP and UKCP registered.
0161 696 3016 View 0161 696 3016
Photo of Dr Tash Walker, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Tash Walker
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
I’m a Clinical Psychologist with over a decade of NHS experience across community mental health, psychosis services, student mental health, staff wellbeing, and substance misuse. My collaborative, formulation-led approach integrates EMDR, CAT, DBT, CBT, and CFT to meet your unique needs. I support people navigating trauma, PTSD, relational and attachment issues, loss, identity, and burnout. I offer a space that’s actively affirming and inclusive with extensive experience working with LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent clients, and understand how minority stress, identity, and systemic barriers can shape mental health.
I’m a Clinical Psychologist with over a decade of NHS experience across community mental health, psychosis services, student mental health, staff wellbeing, and substance misuse. My collaborative, formulation-led approach integrates EMDR, CAT, DBT, CBT, and CFT to meet your unique needs. I support people navigating trauma, PTSD, relational and attachment issues, loss, identity, and burnout. I offer a space that’s actively affirming and inclusive with extensive experience working with LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent clients, and understand how minority stress, identity, and systemic barriers can shape mental health.
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Photo of Genevieve Collister Brown, Psychotherapist, COSRT General
Genevieve Collister Brown
Psychotherapist, COSRT General
I'm a sex and relationship therapist with over 5 years experience in empowering people through sex education. I work with a wide range of issues including understanding your gender, sexuality and identities (inc. LGBTQIA+), finding the right relationship style for you (non-monogamy, monogamy, polyamory etc), negotiating safer BDSM and kink practices, exploring consent, issues with sexual functioning (genital pain, erection issues, inability to orgasm etc), navigating relationship conflicts and improving sexual intimacy. I also work with people who have experienced sexual trauma and abuse and work in a trauma-informed way.
I'm a sex and relationship therapist with over 5 years experience in empowering people through sex education. I work with a wide range of issues including understanding your gender, sexuality and identities (inc. LGBTQIA+), finding the right relationship style for you (non-monogamy, monogamy, polyamory etc), negotiating safer BDSM and kink practices, exploring consent, issues with sexual functioning (genital pain, erection issues, inability to orgasm etc), navigating relationship conflicts and improving sexual intimacy. I also work with people who have experienced sexual trauma and abuse and work in a trauma-informed way.
0161 524 1594 View 0161 524 1594
Photo of Tayler Remi, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Tayler Remi
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Maybe you’ve tried therapy - the worksheets, the apps, the coping tools that promised to help. If you’re neurodivergent or living with trauma, it’s no surprise those didn’t stick; survival mode needs more than a strategy. You might be here after a diagnosis, burnout, loss, or just years of masking that finally caught up with you. Either way, we start where you are - not where you think you’re “supposed” to be.
Maybe you’ve tried therapy - the worksheets, the apps, the coping tools that promised to help. If you’re neurodivergent or living with trauma, it’s no surprise those didn’t stick; survival mode needs more than a strategy. You might be here after a diagnosis, burnout, loss, or just years of masking that finally caught up with you. Either way, we start where you are - not where you think you’re “supposed” to be.
0161 524 9096 View 0161 524 9096
Photo of Sarahjane Paynter - Eight Art Therapy , Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Eight Art Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Online Only
My name is Sj, I am a qualified and HCPC accredited Art Psychotherapist. I have been facilitating Art Therapy and creative wellness projects in North West and Asia for over five years. I’m currently based in Manchester but work all over the North West delivering personal and group Art Therapy. As a neurodivergent, queer and gender non-conforming therapist, I am passionate about supporting disenfranchised individuals to find personal empowerment and healing. Through an integrative practice which trauma-informed and led by the individual. I hope you come away from therapy with a better understanding of yourself and life experience.
My name is Sj, I am a qualified and HCPC accredited Art Psychotherapist. I have been facilitating Art Therapy and creative wellness projects in North West and Asia for over five years. I’m currently based in Manchester but work all over the North West delivering personal and group Art Therapy. As a neurodivergent, queer and gender non-conforming therapist, I am passionate about supporting disenfranchised individuals to find personal empowerment and healing. Through an integrative practice which trauma-informed and led by the individual. I hope you come away from therapy with a better understanding of yourself and life experience.
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Photo of Sohbia Binit Shoaib - Dr Shoaib Psychology Practice Ltd, Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Dr Shoaib Psychology Practice Ltd
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
I'm Dr Sohbia Shoaib a highly skilled Chartered Psychologist with over 20 years working experience in mental health. In the NHS, forensic and private sector. I am trained in a range of interventions including Schema Therapy, EMDR, DBT and CBT. I have expertise in completing a full range of assessments and interventions for clients who present from mild to severe/ complex mental health problems and psychological presentations e.g., trauma, anxiety, depression, anger, stress, burnout, interpersonal difficulties and emotional dysregulation, personality disorder, substance misuse, bipolar, psychosis.
I'm Dr Sohbia Shoaib a highly skilled Chartered Psychologist with over 20 years working experience in mental health. In the NHS, forensic and private sector. I am trained in a range of interventions including Schema Therapy, EMDR, DBT and CBT. I have expertise in completing a full range of assessments and interventions for clients who present from mild to severe/ complex mental health problems and psychological presentations e.g., trauma, anxiety, depression, anger, stress, burnout, interpersonal difficulties and emotional dysregulation, personality disorder, substance misuse, bipolar, psychosis.
0161 524 5114 View 0161 524 5114
Photo of Lily Jeal Jeal, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Lily Jeal Jeal
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m a calm, kind and compassionate therapist who believes that every person deserves a space to feel seen, heard and supported. I utilise trauma informed and person-centred approaches to provide tailored Art Therapy. In sessions I aim to provide a safe, non-judgemental environment where you can explore thoughts and feelings through both art making and conversation. You don’t need any artistic skill, just a willingness to explore at your own pace. If you’re looking for a therapist who values person-centred, creative and empowering care, I’d be honoured to support you on your journey.
I’m a calm, kind and compassionate therapist who believes that every person deserves a space to feel seen, heard and supported. I utilise trauma informed and person-centred approaches to provide tailored Art Therapy. In sessions I aim to provide a safe, non-judgemental environment where you can explore thoughts and feelings through both art making and conversation. You don’t need any artistic skill, just a willingness to explore at your own pace. If you’re looking for a therapist who values person-centred, creative and empowering care, I’d be honoured to support you on your journey.
0161 524 9201 View 0161 524 9201
Photo of Chloe Louise Brew - Chloe Brew Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
Chloe Brew Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Self-criticism can feel like it’s on a painful, repeating loop. You might find you are telling yourself that you are not good enough, or boring, ugly or fat. Far from motivating you, it’s my belief that punishing yourself in this way actually limits your choices and actions and keeps you stuck. Quite simply, talking to yourself in a mean way doesn’t get you anywhere. Talking to another person, and opening up about this habit can really help.
Self-criticism can feel like it’s on a painful, repeating loop. You might find you are telling yourself that you are not good enough, or boring, ugly or fat. Far from motivating you, it’s my belief that punishing yourself in this way actually limits your choices and actions and keeps you stuck. Quite simply, talking to yourself in a mean way doesn’t get you anywhere. Talking to another person, and opening up about this habit can really help.
0161 696 0968 View 0161 696 0968
Photo of Krista Mavrohannas, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Krista Mavrohannas
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Maybe you’re holding it together on the outside, but inside it feels like too much. It might be anxiety, depression, past trauma, ADHD, or patterns in relationships or with self-worth that feel hard to shift. You don’t need to explain it all perfectly, just somewhere to start. I’m a BACP-registered therapist offering a person-centred, trauma-informed space to go at your pace. You’ll be met with empathy, honesty, and respect. People often come to me feeling stuck, emotionally exhausted, or unsure where to begin. Over time, you can start to feel more settled, more like yourself again, and like things are a little easier to face.
Maybe you’re holding it together on the outside, but inside it feels like too much. It might be anxiety, depression, past trauma, ADHD, or patterns in relationships or with self-worth that feel hard to shift. You don’t need to explain it all perfectly, just somewhere to start. I’m a BACP-registered therapist offering a person-centred, trauma-informed space to go at your pace. You’ll be met with empathy, honesty, and respect. People often come to me feeling stuck, emotionally exhausted, or unsure where to begin. Over time, you can start to feel more settled, more like yourself again, and like things are a little easier to face.
0161 524 9432 View 0161 524 9432
Photo of Tracy McCadden, Counsellor, MBACP
Tracy McCadden
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Life can sometimes feel unmanageable, we can feel low and isolated and unsure of who to turn to. When we feel stuck in certain situations and these begin impacting on our mood and our behaviour, we can often need the support of an outside source to help us look at our situation more clearly and to help us regain control. This is where an experienced counsellor can really help. "My therapist has been a great help, a good listener, and has given me an insight into who I really am....I'm sure I will be better for her sound counselling."
Life can sometimes feel unmanageable, we can feel low and isolated and unsure of who to turn to. When we feel stuck in certain situations and these begin impacting on our mood and our behaviour, we can often need the support of an outside source to help us look at our situation more clearly and to help us regain control. This is where an experienced counsellor can really help. "My therapist has been a great help, a good listener, and has given me an insight into who I really am....I'm sure I will be better for her sound counselling."
07831 202104 View 07831 202104
Photo of Michael Halpin, Counsellor, MBACP
Michael Halpin
Counsellor, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Accepting that you need the help of someone else can be hard. Making the decision to attend counselling can be even harder. Partners, peers and family may not understand, you may feel like you've failed somehow, you may feel like you are not enough. This is far from the truth however. Attending counselling is often the first step on a journey that allows us to confront our difficulties, face our fears, become more self-aware and ultimately take a path that can lead to a better life.
Accepting that you need the help of someone else can be hard. Making the decision to attend counselling can be even harder. Partners, peers and family may not understand, you may feel like you've failed somehow, you may feel like you are not enough. This is far from the truth however. Attending counselling is often the first step on a journey that allows us to confront our difficulties, face our fears, become more self-aware and ultimately take a path that can lead to a better life.
0161 524 1442 View 0161 524 1442
Photo of Dr Sobia Khan - Dr Sobia Khan, Counsellor, PhD, MBACP
Dr Sobia Khan
Counsellor, PhD, MBACP
A warm welcome to my profile. I have been in the field of emotional health for over 20 years & have contributed, either through counselling or research, to many people making a positive change in their life. You may be feeling stressed or 'not good enough' in life. Or wanting to make a big life decision or small manageable changes. I use various solution-focussed interventions. Some of my areas of interest are Personal Development & Growth & Change, using a solution-focussed toolkit, Imposter syndrome, Self-esteem & Confidence issues. Through my coaching & counselling skills, I can assist you in this journey of achieving your goal.
A warm welcome to my profile. I have been in the field of emotional health for over 20 years & have contributed, either through counselling or research, to many people making a positive change in their life. You may be feeling stressed or 'not good enough' in life. Or wanting to make a big life decision or small manageable changes. I use various solution-focussed interventions. Some of my areas of interest are Personal Development & Growth & Change, using a solution-focussed toolkit, Imposter syndrome, Self-esteem & Confidence issues. Through my coaching & counselling skills, I can assist you in this journey of achieving your goal.
0161 524 1876 View 0161 524 1876
Photo of Dr Hoyin Chan, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Hoyin Chan
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or burdened by life’s challenges? Perhaps you’re facing a long-term or life-changing physical health condition, dealing with trauma from a past event, or finding it hard to break free from patterns that hold you back. Whatever brought you here, taking the first step towards therapy is a courageous and empowering choice. I’m here to provide a safe, compassionate space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences at your own pace. Together, we can work towards gaining meaningful insight into your difficulties, promoting personal growth, and moving forward with confidence.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or burdened by life’s challenges? Perhaps you’re facing a long-term or life-changing physical health condition, dealing with trauma from a past event, or finding it hard to break free from patterns that hold you back. Whatever brought you here, taking the first step towards therapy is a courageous and empowering choice. I’m here to provide a safe, compassionate space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences at your own pace. Together, we can work towards gaining meaningful insight into your difficulties, promoting personal growth, and moving forward with confidence.
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Photo of Corrina Low, Counsellor, MBACP
Corrina Low
Counsellor, MBACP
I’m an Integrative Psychotherapist working online, across the UK, and in-person in Central Manchester. My specialisms are anxiety, self-esteem, low mood & relationships, in all their forms. Some of the issues I frequently support clients with include difficulties within relationships with partners, friends, family members; 'people-pleasing'; self-criticism; work-related stress & anxiety; feelings of loneliness / isolation; feeling stuck. These are all natural things to struggle with, but change is possible and therapy can help.
I’m an Integrative Psychotherapist working online, across the UK, and in-person in Central Manchester. My specialisms are anxiety, self-esteem, low mood & relationships, in all their forms. Some of the issues I frequently support clients with include difficulties within relationships with partners, friends, family members; 'people-pleasing'; self-criticism; work-related stress & anxiety; feelings of loneliness / isolation; feeling stuck. These are all natural things to struggle with, but change is possible and therapy can help.
0161 524 0259 View 0161 524 0259
Photo of Dylan Scott, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Dylan Scott
Psychotherapist, MBACP
I work in a way that’s person-centred, integrative, inclusive and relational. I always place your needs and values at the centre of our therapeutic work, while embracing your freedom and autonomy. I take an affirmative approach in encouraging you to bring any and all parts of your unique self; I take care to not pathologise or criticise you. I work very relationally, and I believe therapy can only be effective if there’s a strong therapeutic relationship at the heart of it. I’m interested in exploring what goes on in the therapeutic process and how this may mirror dynamics you’re experiencing in your wider life and relationships.
I work in a way that’s person-centred, integrative, inclusive and relational. I always place your needs and values at the centre of our therapeutic work, while embracing your freedom and autonomy. I take an affirmative approach in encouraging you to bring any and all parts of your unique self; I take care to not pathologise or criticise you. I work very relationally, and I believe therapy can only be effective if there’s a strong therapeutic relationship at the heart of it. I’m interested in exploring what goes on in the therapeutic process and how this may mirror dynamics you’re experiencing in your wider life and relationships.
0161 524 1602 View 0161 524 1602
Photo of Elleen Okotie, Psychotherapist, MA, MBABCP
Elleen Okotie
Psychotherapist, MA, MBABCP
2 Endorsed
You may feel anxious about not fitting in, questioning your identity, and worrying how others see you. Behind the mask you wear to keep it together, there’s exhaustion and the crash that comes from hiding your true feelings. Therapy can be the space where you stop masking, ease the anxiety, and begin to feel secure in who you are.
You may feel anxious about not fitting in, questioning your identity, and worrying how others see you. Behind the mask you wear to keep it together, there’s exhaustion and the crash that comes from hiding your true feelings. Therapy can be the space where you stop masking, ease the anxiety, and begin to feel secure in who you are.
0161 696 1586 View 0161 696 1586
Photo of Steve Ishmael - Cheshire Psychotherapies and Mental Health Ltd, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Cheshire Psychotherapies and Mental Health Ltd
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
1 Endorsed
I am an Accredited CBT Therapist, an Accredited Integrative Counsellor, EMDR Practitioner, Couple and Relationship Therapist, Mental Health Practitioner, and an experienced Clinical Supervisor. I am here to offer you the space to explore your feelings, wishes and situation. I work from the client's perspective and very experienced in working with a wide variety of people and issues. I am first and foremost a helper, someone you can trust and relate well with on any issue. Having worked in various IAPTs and CAMHS services across the United Kingdom and overseas am able to work collaboratively and offer bespoke interventions to help.
I am an Accredited CBT Therapist, an Accredited Integrative Counsellor, EMDR Practitioner, Couple and Relationship Therapist, Mental Health Practitioner, and an experienced Clinical Supervisor. I am here to offer you the space to explore your feelings, wishes and situation. I work from the client's perspective and very experienced in working with a wide variety of people and issues. I am first and foremost a helper, someone you can trust and relate well with on any issue. Having worked in various IAPTs and CAMHS services across the United Kingdom and overseas am able to work collaboratively and offer bespoke interventions to help.
0161 509 6596 View 0161 509 6596

See more therapy options for Manchester

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.