Clare Merchant , BACP

Clare Merchant is a counsellor with three years of experience who offers a compassionate, listening presence to people navigating difficult life challenges. She works predominantly using a person-centred approach, prioritising empathy, acceptance, and the client’s own pace as the foundations for change. Clare has also trained in integrative methods, enabling her to draw on different techniques and worksheets when they suit a client’s needs.

Each person Clare meets is treated as an individual, and she aims to tailor sessions in ways that align with personal goals and expectations. Through a combination of reflective conversation and practical tools such as worksheets, she supports clients in exploring the factors affecting their wellbeing and in developing clear steps toward their goals. Clare’s practice is built around listening without judgement and helping clients find workable strategies for stress, relationships, grief, self-esteem, and other concerns.

Clare is a member of the BACP - the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy - which reflects her commitment to professional standards and ongoing development. Her approach is collaborative and adaptable, focused on meeting people where they are and helping them move toward greater balance and clarity.

Person-centred and integrative approaches for online therapy

Clare uses a client-centred approach that focuses on listening, empathy, and supporting people to find their own solutions. This method helps clients who are dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship concerns, grief, and changes in life by creating a non-judgemental space where personal insights can emerge.

She is also trained in integrative techniques, which means she can introduce practical tools and worksheets alongside reflective conversation when those methods suit a client’s goals. Integrative work can be helpful for clients who want both emotional processing and concrete strategies to cope with day-to-day challenges.

Finding the right therapeutic approach is part of the process, and Clare works collaboratively with each client to decide what fits best. She will discuss goals, preferences, and how different ways of working might support progress, adapting the approach as needs evolve.

Online therapy with Clare is offered by video call, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging, giving flexibility to fit sessions into busy lives and to connect across distances. These options make it easier to access consistent support, maintain momentum between sessions, and choose the communication style that feels most comfortable for the client.