Lixson Cyriac , BACP

Lixson Cyriac is a psychodynamic counsellor and psychotherapist trained at Birkbeck College, University of London, and the University of East London. He built his early career working with a counselling foundation accredited with the BACP - the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy - serving as both counsellor and assessor, and he continues to contribute as a member of the counselling team at HCC, Marlybebone. His experience also includes student counselling roles at Birkbeck College, Westminster University, and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama.

Cyriac’s primary orientation is psychodynamic therapy, rooted in the psychoanalytic tradition. He explores how earlier life experiences and often unconscious processes can shape current patterns of thinking, feeling, and coping. By tracing links between past and present, he helps people recognise entrenched strategies and consider alternatives where old responses no longer serve them.

He is also trained in cognitive behavioral therapy techniques and holds accreditation with the Association for Psychological Therapies (APT). He works collaboratively with clients to determine whether psychodynamic work, CBT-based interventions, or a combination will best address the presenting concerns and the likely duration of therapy.

In addition to clinical practice, Cyriac has many years of pastoral and spiritual care experience across hospitals, care homes, schools, and services supporting people who have been homeless. Some clients bring spiritual or pastoral matters into sessions, and he is prepared to explore those themes alongside psychological issues.

Psychodynamic and CBT approaches for online therapy

Psychodynamic therapy focuses on how earlier relationships and unconscious patterns influence current feelings, behaviours, and relationships. It helps people explore the origins of recurring difficulties and understand how past experiences shape present responses, which can be useful for issues such as relationship struggles, mood differences, and long-standing patterns of coping.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, is a practical approach that helps identify and change unhelpful thoughts and behaviours. It is often applied to anxiety, depression, stress, and specific problem areas where learning new skills and perspectives can reduce distress and improve daily functioning.

Finding the right therapeutic approach is part of the process. Lixson will work collaboratively with each person to consider needs, goals, and preferences and to decide whether psychodynamic work, CBT techniques, or a combination is the best fit. This decision is made together and can evolve over time.

Online therapy offers flexible ways to engage with a licensed professional. Sessions can take place by video call or phone, and text options such as live chat or messaging can suit people who need short, frequent contact or who prefer written communication. These options make it easier to fit therapy into busy lives and to access therapists from different locations.