Kate Oliver-Smith , NCPS

Kate Oliver-Smith is a psychotherapeutic counsellor who trusts that people can reach attainable life goals when they are motivated and supported by therapeutic work. She combines practical experience with a person-focused mindset to help clients move toward meaningful change.

Her professional journey began in Human Resources, where she worked directly with individuals and teams to address personal and workplace challenges through mediation, coaching, and counselling. It was during that period that she discovered a strong aptitude and genuine enjoyment for helping others resolve their difficulties.

Kate went on to train in a range of therapeutic methods, including Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Client-Centered Therapy. She holds the NCPS credential, a recognised professional qualification in counselling practice. By blending her counselling skills and HR background with a non-judgemental stance and empathic awareness, she tailors her approach to each client’s specific needs.

Clients can expect a warm, down-to-earth practitioner who is approachable and practical. She works with a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, addictions, phobias, abuse, eating concerns, emotional difficulties, self-esteem and confidence struggles, relationship problems, and stress-related challenges.

Therapeutic Approaches and Flexible Online Support

Kate uses client-centered therapy to create a supportive space where the client's perspective guides the work - this approach focuses on empathy, active listening, and respect to help clients explore their priorities and build self-directed solutions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is used to identify and shift unhelpful thinking and behaviour patterns, offering practical tools for symptoms such as anxiety, low mood, and stress. Motivational Interviewing complements these methods by helping clients clarify their own reasons for change and strengthen motivation, particularly useful for issues like addictions, lifestyle shifts, or ambivalence about treatment.

Finding the right approach is part of the process and Kate works collaboratively with each person to determine which methods best match their needs, goals, and preferences. She tailors sessions based on what is helpful and adapts strategies as progress unfolds.

Online therapy with Kate is offered through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging, which makes scheduling more flexible around work, family, or other commitments. These options increase accessibility and allow clients to continue therapy from a location that suits them while maintaining the therapeutic focus and continuity of care.