Body Image Counselling in Southend-on-Sea

Sian Elizabeth Hines
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
I can help you to reach the potential that you want and deserve to reach by helping you to understand your past, present and future. To help you to work through relationship problems, self esteem issues or letting go of the past. To enable you to see past blocks and obstacles so that you can control, minimise and eliminate any anxieties. To work with the negative emotions that you feel so that you can identify quickly what your emotions are telling you and then challenge them so that they do not control you. To magnify the positives and build on them for complete self confidence.
I can help you to reach the potential that you want and deserve to reach by helping you to understand your past, present and future. To help you to work through relationship problems, self esteem issues or letting go of the past. To enable you to see past blocks and obstacles so that you can control, minimise and eliminate any anxieties. To work with the negative emotions that you feel so that you can identify quickly what your emotions are telling you and then challenge them so that they do not control you. To magnify the positives and build on them for complete self confidence.
01702 967425 View 01702 967425
My name is Oluwabukola Ruth Aina, and I am qualified therapeutic counsellor, an accredited member of National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS). I believe that being truly heard can be one of the most powerful and healing experiences a person can have. In a world where many people feel the need to hide their struggles, I offers a space where you can be open, honest, and accepted without judgement. Providing a calm and compassionate environment where you can explore your thoughts and emotions safely and at your own pace.
My name is Oluwabukola Ruth Aina, and I am qualified therapeutic counsellor, an accredited member of National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS). I believe that being truly heard can be one of the most powerful and healing experiences a person can have. In a world where many people feel the need to hide their struggles, I offers a space where you can be open, honest, and accepted without judgement. Providing a calm and compassionate environment where you can explore your thoughts and emotions safely and at your own pace.
01702 967907 View 01702 967907
Maria Georgiou
Counsellor, MBACP
I don’t believe people need fixing. I believe the ways we cope, relate and protect ourselves often make sense when we understand what we have lived through. I work with adults who may be carrying the effects of trauma, domestic abuse, loss, disability or sight loss, difficult relationships or major life change. You may feel stuck in familiar patterns, disconnected from yourself, or unsure why certain experiences still affect you. Together, we can make sense of what has shaped you and explore what you need now with curiosity and compassion.
I don’t believe people need fixing. I believe the ways we cope, relate and protect ourselves often make sense when we understand what we have lived through. I work with adults who may be carrying the effects of trauma, domestic abuse, loss, disability or sight loss, difficult relationships or major life change. You may feel stuck in familiar patterns, disconnected from yourself, or unsure why certain experiences still affect you. Together, we can make sense of what has shaped you and explore what you need now with curiosity and compassion.
01702 655611 View 01702 655611
Carl Argent
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Are you ready to rewrite the story you’ve been telling yourself about your life? I am Carl, a qualified integrative counsellor and relationship therapist supporting adults (16+) and couples. Whether you face anxiety, burnout, grief, the heavy feeling of 'not enough’ or other pain, I offer a space of safety to speak openly. I believe that change happens when you feel safe to be yourself, and you deserve a meaningful life. Your relationship with yourself is vital because it shapes how you live and connect. Together, we will explore what lies underneath your story, helping you to trust your instincts and make truly authentic choices.
Are you ready to rewrite the story you’ve been telling yourself about your life? I am Carl, a qualified integrative counsellor and relationship therapist supporting adults (16+) and couples. Whether you face anxiety, burnout, grief, the heavy feeling of 'not enough’ or other pain, I offer a space of safety to speak openly. I believe that change happens when you feel safe to be yourself, and you deserve a meaningful life. Your relationship with yourself is vital because it shapes how you live and connect. Together, we will explore what lies underneath your story, helping you to trust your instincts and make truly authentic choices.
01702 655097 View 01702 655097
You might feel stuck, overwhelmed, or like life’s become heavy and tangled. Maybe you're repeating old patterns, struggling with anxiety or low self-esteem, or navigating something deeply personal — like fertility issues, grief, addiction or chronic health challenges. You want to feel like you again. You want to understand what’s really going on underneath it all, move forward without pressure or judgement, and finally stop carrying so much on your own. You don’t need fixing — just space, support, and someone who gets it.
You might feel stuck, overwhelmed, or like life’s become heavy and tangled. Maybe you're repeating old patterns, struggling with anxiety or low self-esteem, or navigating something deeply personal — like fertility issues, grief, addiction or chronic health challenges. You want to feel like you again. You want to understand what’s really going on underneath it all, move forward without pressure or judgement, and finally stop carrying so much on your own. You don’t need fixing — just space, support, and someone who gets it.
01702 967445 View 01702 967445
Siobhan Bracken
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
Alongside those, I am experienced in supporting with depression, body image concerns, grief and relationship issues (whether that be partner, family, friend etc.).
I'm a humanistic therapist - in a nutshell, this means that I see the value and potential in everybody. With all my clients, I come with an approach of complete acceptance and empathy for who they are. In providing acceptance for you, I hope that over time, you can come to provide it for yourself.
Alongside those, I am experienced in supporting with depression, body image concerns, grief and relationship issues (whether that be partner, family, friend etc.).
I'm a humanistic therapist - in a nutshell, this means that I see the value and potential in everybody. With all my clients, I come with an approach of complete acceptance and empathy for who they are. In providing acceptance for you, I hope that over time, you can come to provide it for yourself.
01702 668124 View 01702 668124
Yvette White
Counsellor, BACP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
5 Star Google reviews and over 5000+ client hours... Individual therapy £60 Couples £80 per hour after initial starting session. Solution Focused Couples programme £595. Anxiety, Depression and Stress Management specialist. Marriage /Relationship counsellor..  Are you struggling with Anxiety, Abuse, Bereavement, or relationship issues, then I can help! I also deal with Low self-esteem, Death Anxiety, Abuse, ADHD, Divorce, Depression, Career path, Cancer support, Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Pain management, Panic Disorder, PTSD, Rape crisis, Relationship issues, Self harm, Trauma and Low self esteem.
5 Star Google reviews and over 5000+ client hours... Individual therapy £60 Couples £80 per hour after initial starting session. Solution Focused Couples programme £595. Anxiety, Depression and Stress Management specialist. Marriage /Relationship counsellor..  Are you struggling with Anxiety, Abuse, Bereavement, or relationship issues, then I can help! I also deal with Low self-esteem, Death Anxiety, Abuse, ADHD, Divorce, Depression, Career path, Cancer support, Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Pain management, Panic Disorder, PTSD, Rape crisis, Relationship issues, Self harm, Trauma and Low self esteem.
01702 967863 View 01702 967863
Sophie Pinney
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Online Only
HELLO, I'm Sophie Welcome. Taking the first step towards therapy can feel daunting, but you don't have to work things out alone. I have 20 years Experience. If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, exhausted, or simply not feeling like yourself, therapy can provide a space to pause, make sense of what's happening, and find a way forward. I work online via Zoom with adults throughout London, Essex and across the UK. Many of my clients are busy professionals based in London and the South East who value the flexibility of online therapy and appreciate having a dedicated space to reflect, process challenges and focus on their wellbeing.
HELLO, I'm Sophie Welcome. Taking the first step towards therapy can feel daunting, but you don't have to work things out alone. I have 20 years Experience. If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, exhausted, or simply not feeling like yourself, therapy can provide a space to pause, make sense of what's happening, and find a way forward. I work online via Zoom with adults throughout London, Essex and across the UK. Many of my clients are busy professionals based in London and the South East who value the flexibility of online therapy and appreciate having a dedicated space to reflect, process challenges and focus on their wellbeing.
01702 904163 View 01702 904163
You're the one everyone leans on- the reliable one, the kind one who always shows up. But lately, you're running on empty, lying awake replaying the day, scanning for anyone you might have disappointed. Saying no feels impossible, rest feels selfish. And somewhere underneath the exhaustion is a quieter, scarier thought: "what if people only want me around for what I do for them?" Instead, imagine falling asleep without replaying the day. Waking up without dread. Being with others and feeling you actually belong; not performing, not managing, just present. This isn't about better boundaries, it's about feeling worthy just as you are.
You're the one everyone leans on- the reliable one, the kind one who always shows up. But lately, you're running on empty, lying awake replaying the day, scanning for anyone you might have disappointed. Saying no feels impossible, rest feels selfish. And somewhere underneath the exhaustion is a quieter, scarier thought: "what if people only want me around for what I do for them?" Instead, imagine falling asleep without replaying the day. Waking up without dread. Being with others and feeling you actually belong; not performing, not managing, just present. This isn't about better boundaries, it's about feeling worthy just as you are.
01702 967368 View 01702 967368
Elizabeth Cross
Counsellor, BACP
4 Endorsed
Abuse is so much more than just a word—it’s an experience that can feel overwhelming, like a shadow that never fades. But while the scars may run deep, healing is possible. Hi, I’m Beth, a trauma-trained psychotherapeutic counsellor. As someone who has experienced multiple traumas and abuse and a diagnoses of ADHD later in life I understand the profound impact these experiences have, and the complexity of coping with trauma. I create a personalised, supportive space for healing that is unique to you. Tailored Approach: No two people’s experiences or needs are the same—I meet you exactly where you are.
Abuse is so much more than just a word—it’s an experience that can feel overwhelming, like a shadow that never fades. But while the scars may run deep, healing is possible. Hi, I’m Beth, a trauma-trained psychotherapeutic counsellor. As someone who has experienced multiple traumas and abuse and a diagnoses of ADHD later in life I understand the profound impact these experiences have, and the complexity of coping with trauma. I create a personalised, supportive space for healing that is unique to you. Tailored Approach: No two people’s experiences or needs are the same—I meet you exactly where you are.
01702 967147 View 01702 967147
Zac Gensberg
Counsellor, BACP
1 Endorsed
Hello! I love therapy, sitting in either chair. As a therapist, I get to provide support and a kind, empathetic ear; I get to witness hard work, growth and passion from those taking their wellbeing into their hands, and I get to be myself. As a client, I've learned many things about myself, I've learned how to communicate, and overcome my own fears; it is these experiences that lead me to becoming a counsellor.
Hello! I love therapy, sitting in either chair. As a therapist, I get to provide support and a kind, empathetic ear; I get to witness hard work, growth and passion from those taking their wellbeing into their hands, and I get to be myself. As a client, I've learned many things about myself, I've learned how to communicate, and overcome my own fears; it is these experiences that lead me to becoming a counsellor.
01702 655492 View 01702 655492
Piece Together Counselling
Counsellor, BACP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello, I’m Karen, a UK-based Integrative Therapeutic Counsellor dedicated to supporting neurodiverse individuals and anyone facing daily challenges. My journey into therapy later in life has endowed me with rich life skills and deep empathy, allowing me to truly understand the unique experiences of those on the neurodiverse spectrum. I’m passionate about offering a safe, non-judgmental space where you can share your story and build resilience.
Hello, I’m Karen, a UK-based Integrative Therapeutic Counsellor dedicated to supporting neurodiverse individuals and anyone facing daily challenges. My journey into therapy later in life has endowed me with rich life skills and deep empathy, allowing me to truly understand the unique experiences of those on the neurodiverse spectrum. I’m passionate about offering a safe, non-judgmental space where you can share your story and build resilience.
01268 202341 View 01268 202341
Nursac Durmus
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Serves Area
I am an experienced Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist & EMDR Therapist with experience in both NHS and private practice. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) explores the link between what you do, what you think and how you feel. Unfortunately, life presents us with difficulties and usually we are able to cope well on our own with these situations. There are occasions, when for whatever reason, we need help from someone else, which is usually a friend,colleague or family member. Sometimes, however, you might find you have no one to turn to or talking to a friend or loved one seems too difficult, painful or just too complicated.
I am an experienced Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist & EMDR Therapist with experience in both NHS and private practice. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) explores the link between what you do, what you think and how you feel. Unfortunately, life presents us with difficulties and usually we are able to cope well on our own with these situations. There are occasions, when for whatever reason, we need help from someone else, which is usually a friend,colleague or family member. Sometimes, however, you might find you have no one to turn to or talking to a friend or loved one seems too difficult, painful or just too complicated.
01702 416230 View 01702 416230
Hummingbird Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
Hello, I'm Victoria. I just want to start by saying you don't need to be in crisis to come to therapy. Many of the people I work with appear to be coping on the outside but privately feel stuck, overwhelmed, disconnected from themselves or caught in patterns they don't fully understand. They may struggle with low self-esteem, relationships, anxiety, grief or a harsh inner critic. Therapy offers a space to slow down, make sense of what you're experiencing and develop a deeper understanding of yourself, helping you move forward with greater confidence and clarity.
Hello, I'm Victoria. I just want to start by saying you don't need to be in crisis to come to therapy. Many of the people I work with appear to be coping on the outside but privately feel stuck, overwhelmed, disconnected from themselves or caught in patterns they don't fully understand. They may struggle with low self-esteem, relationships, anxiety, grief or a harsh inner critic. Therapy offers a space to slow down, make sense of what you're experiencing and develop a deeper understanding of yourself, helping you move forward with greater confidence and clarity.
01702 967061 View 01702 967061
Natasha Williamson
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
2 Endorsed
My name is Natasha and I run The Wellness Project. I help individuals and couples to find a more vibrant and easeful way of life. I believe that if we work to understand your unique psychological make-up, with an appropriate level of support and challenge, change is possible. I consider us equally important in the process and will help you to feel comfortable - always working from a place of kindness and respect. My core training is in Transactional Analysis - however, I have significant post qualification training and consider myself to work integratively, drawing on lots of different theories and skills to best help my clients.
My name is Natasha and I run The Wellness Project. I help individuals and couples to find a more vibrant and easeful way of life. I believe that if we work to understand your unique psychological make-up, with an appropriate level of support and challenge, change is possible. I consider us equally important in the process and will help you to feel comfortable - always working from a place of kindness and respect. My core training is in Transactional Analysis - however, I have significant post qualification training and consider myself to work integratively, drawing on lots of different theories and skills to best help my clients.
01702 908322 View 01702 908322
Musonda Mwila
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
BACP Accredited; COSRT Registered. I am a qualified Psychosexual and Relationship Therapist, and Psychotherapist, offering both online and face-to-face therapy sessions. With specialist training and clinical experience with a Relate service, I have a strong background in couples therapy, supporting partners through a wide range of relationship challenges. My therapeutic approach is client-centred and integrative, drawing on Psychodynamic Therapy, CBT, Mindfulness, and Sensate Focus to support behavioural change, enhance communication, and improve sexual functioning.
BACP Accredited; COSRT Registered. I am a qualified Psychosexual and Relationship Therapist, and Psychotherapist, offering both online and face-to-face therapy sessions. With specialist training and clinical experience with a Relate service, I have a strong background in couples therapy, supporting partners through a wide range of relationship challenges. My therapeutic approach is client-centred and integrative, drawing on Psychodynamic Therapy, CBT, Mindfulness, and Sensate Focus to support behavioural change, enhance communication, and improve sexual functioning.
01702 967410 View 01702 967410
Helen McDonald
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
I’ve been working with children and young people for over 20 years and I have extensive experience of supporting children and young people with a range of emotional needs and of supporting parents, caregivers and professionals to build better connections with the children and young people in their lives. I’m based in Southend-on-Sea, Essex, and I offer a range of support services for children and young people, including therapy (play-based and talking therapy), coaching, and advocacy. I have experience of working with children and young people with additional learning needs and those who are neurodivergent.
I’ve been working with children and young people for over 20 years and I have extensive experience of supporting children and young people with a range of emotional needs and of supporting parents, caregivers and professionals to build better connections with the children and young people in their lives. I’m based in Southend-on-Sea, Essex, and I offer a range of support services for children and young people, including therapy (play-based and talking therapy), coaching, and advocacy. I have experience of working with children and young people with additional learning needs and those who are neurodivergent.
01702 418208 View 01702 418208
Hello and welcome, I am Marie, a person-centred counsellor. I am aware of how anxious you may feel asking for help, and coping with overwhelming feelings. Finding a safe, caring and non-judgemental space within a therapeutic relationship is the first step and a great relief. A space for you to explore your feelings, thoughts and experiences in an unbiased, supportive and confidential environment. I will help you to make sense of your past or present experiences, allowing you to become clear and confident.
Hello and welcome, I am Marie, a person-centred counsellor. I am aware of how anxious you may feel asking for help, and coping with overwhelming feelings. Finding a safe, caring and non-judgemental space within a therapeutic relationship is the first step and a great relief. A space for you to explore your feelings, thoughts and experiences in an unbiased, supportive and confidential environment. I will help you to make sense of your past or present experiences, allowing you to become clear and confident.
01277 674067 View 01277 674067
Chris Warburton
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
2 Endorsed
Are you looking for a safe, accepting space to explore what is going on in your life? I believe growth happens when you feel heard, understood, and free from judgement. You might be feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck, or low in confidence. Together, we will make sense of what is happening, explore patterns, and help you move towards greater emotional wellbeing. You do not need to have everything figured out before you start.
Are you looking for a safe, accepting space to explore what is going on in your life? I believe growth happens when you feel heard, understood, and free from judgement. You might be feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck, or low in confidence. Together, we will make sense of what is happening, explore patterns, and help you move towards greater emotional wellbeing. You do not need to have everything figured out before you start.
01702 655547 View 01702 655547
Nicole Henry
Counsellor, BACP
Online Only
I help children, teens and adults feel more settled, confident and connected. With young people, I use creative and relational approaches to build emotional awareness and resilience. For adults, especially teachers and caregivers, I offer space to manage stress, burnout and identity shifts. My approach is calm, compassionate and focused on helping you (or your child) feel heard and supported. My clients are often capable people who feel overwhelmed or disconnected. For children and teens, it’s anxiety, school stress or confidence struggles. For adults, it’s burnout, boundaries and finding balance again.
I help children, teens and adults feel more settled, confident and connected. With young people, I use creative and relational approaches to build emotional awareness and resilience. For adults, especially teachers and caregivers, I offer space to manage stress, burnout and identity shifts. My approach is calm, compassionate and focused on helping you (or your child) feel heard and supported. My clients are often capable people who feel overwhelmed or disconnected. For children and teens, it’s anxiety, school stress or confidence struggles. For adults, it’s burnout, boundaries and finding balance again.
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Body Image Counsellors
How does body image affect mental health?
Poor body image can influence mental health because it can reduce self-esteem and decrease functioning in other areas of one's life. Negative body image may hinder someone's ability to perform daily tasks, including professional and social responsibilities, because they may feel self-conscious or shame surrounding their appearance; a desire to change one's body as a result of negative body image can also trigger behaviors such as extreme dieting, excessive exercise, or obsessive social media comparison. Poor body image is associated with a number of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, although many people experience negative body image even in the absence of meeting the diagnostic criteria for any mental health disorders.

What does it mean to have a positive body image?
Body image refers to how one internally perceives their appearance and internally "talks" to themself about their body. Positive body image is therefore indicative of a positive perception of one's self and positive internal self-talk that underscores one's strengths. People who have good body image often have higher self-esteem, self-worth, and self-confidence, and they also often recognise how external factors, such as social media or relationship patterns, can influence body image. While body image can change at different life stages and in response to various triggers, practicing self-acceptance and a body-positive mindset can help maintain a more stable sense of positive body image.

Is body image the same as self-esteem?
Body image and self-esteem are often related, but they are distinct concepts. Self-esteem is a broader term that can be shaped by a number of factors outside of body image, including one's functioning at school or in the workplace; it refers to one's capacity to handle various life challenges. Poor body image can be one way in which one's self-esteem is reduced. Reduced self-esteem as a result of poor body image can cause individuals to feel negative about their appearance, withdraw from social interactions, and/or rely on harmful behaviours as a coping mechanism. A "body positive" approach to body image therapy is therefore often used to encourage a more positive view of one's self and thus encourage better self-esteem.

What type of therapy is best to foster a positive body image?
The type of therapy best suited to improve body image depends on each person, as there is not a single therapy specific to body image improvement. That said, many individuals with poor body image benefit from therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based therapy. CBT can be used to help challenge distorted or negative thoughts about one's body, while ACT and mindfulness practices can facilitate a more positive body image through self-acceptance and identification of one's personal strengths. Regardless of treatment type, clients should look for body image therapists who encourage the development of a sense of self outside of their external appearance and help clients reduce unwanted behaviours developed as a result of poor self-esteem, such as dieting or disordered eating patterns.