Melanie O'Brien , BACP

Melanie O'Brien is a qualified integrative counsellor who creates a warm, respectful and grounded space for people to explore what feels difficult or overwhelming. With five years of experience, she works with individuals facing anxiety, low mood, challenges with self-esteem, grief, trauma and relationship difficulties, offering calm support that helps clients feel understood rather than judged.

Her practice is rooted in person-centred, or client-centered, counselling which places the therapeutic relationship at the heart of the work. Melanie values listening deeply and responding with empathy so clients can connect with their own experience and pace their progress. She also integrates elements of counselling for depression and cognitive behavioural approaches when these techniques suit a client’s needs, tailoring interventions to what feels most helpful for each person.

Melanie holds BACP, the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, a recognised professional credential in the United Kingdom. Her style is gentle and honest - she supports clients with reflective feedback and practical insights while maintaining a nonjudgmental stance. She respects the courage it takes to seek support and aims to accompany people as they make sense of painful experiences and take steps toward change.

Person-Centered Care and Practical Approaches for Online Sessions

Melanie primarily uses client-centered therapy, focusing on empathy, active listening and building a trusting therapeutic relationship so clients can explore feelings and make sense of their experiences. This approach supports issues such as low mood, relationship difficulties and challenges with self-esteem by creating a nonjudgmental space for reflection.

She also draws on elements of cognitive behavioural techniques and counselling for depression when clients would benefit from structured strategies to manage thoughts and behaviours. These methods can help with anxiety, mood regulation and practical coping skills while remaining adaptable to each person’s pace.

Finding the right approach is part of the collaborative process. Melanie works alongside clients to determine which methods fit their needs, goals and preferences, adjusting the focus as therapy progresses so the plan remains client-led and responsive.

Online therapy offers flexibility and accessibility through video calls, phone sessions, live chat or text-based messaging. These options allow therapists and licensed professionals to connect with clients in ways that suit different schedules, comfort levels and communication styles, making it easier to maintain continuity of care and to integrate therapy into everyday life.