Clare Merchant

Clare Merchant is a counsellor who uses a client-centred approach to support people through difficult moments. She draws on three years of experience listening with compassion and helping people work out what matters to them. Clare aims to make sessions feel straightforward and respectful so people can talk honestly about their concerns.

She works with a range of issues including stress, anxiety, grief and depression. Clare also helps with relationship problems, coping with life changes, parenting pressures, addictions and sleep difficulties. Her wider focus includes matters such as caregiving stress, cancer-related concerns, body image and blended family issues.

Clare prefers to tailor each session to the person in front of her. She uses conversation and practical worksheets to explore what’s affecting wellbeing. Together the counsellor and client identify small steps and realistic goals to move forward.

Her practice is grounded in warmth and respect. Clare aims to create a calm space where people can sort through painful feelings and build coping strategies. She works in English and accepts international clients.

Clare holds BACP, which indicates her registration with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. To begin, people use the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire and then schedule according to availability.

Client-Centred Work Online and What It Feels Like

Clare's main approach is client-centred therapy, which means sessions focus on the person's own experience. The counsellor listens carefully and reflects what she hears so clients feel understood and can follow their own pace. This approach is often helpful for grief, anxiety and feelings of low self-esteem.

She also uses practical worksheets alongside conversation to map problems and set small, achievable goals. Those worksheets can help with stress, sleep problems, coping during illness and navigating caring responsibilities.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. Clare collaborates with each person to choose techniques that suit their needs, goals and preferences. She will check in and adapt the way she works as therapy progresses, making changes together if something does not feel helpful.

Session formats are not specified in the biography, so please confirm which options are offered before booking. Many people find online sessions easier to fit around work or caregiving, and written worksheets can be completed between appointments to reinforce progress. Online work can also make it simpler to keep regular meetings when life is busy or when travelling, but check the available formats when you book to ensure they match your needs.