Dr. John Hilsdon, BACP

Dr. John Hilsdon helps people who are struggling with stress, anxiety, addictions, relationship difficulties, grief and depression. He presents as a calm, steady presence who encourages honest conversation about thoughts and everyday habits. He invites clients to take small steps towards clearer thinking and more manageable days.

With 24 years of experience, he draws on approaches that centre the person and look at meaning in life. Sessions focus on what matters to the individual, and on practical ways to change unhelpful routines. He emphasises listening first, then working together to identify patterns that keep problems going.

Clients can expect straightforward, down-to-earth language rather than clinical jargon. The room is used to try out new ways of thinking and behaving, and to plan realistic next steps that fit daily life. The aim is gradual change rather than quick fixes.

His additional focus areas include issues linked to illness, end-of-life care, first responder stresses, and process addictions such as gambling or exercise. He also supports people dealing with shame, isolation, jealousy, life purpose questions and workplace or social prejudice.

Dr. Hilsdon holds BACP credentials, which indicates professional registration in the United Kingdom. He works in English and accepts international clients. To start, a short matching questionnaire is used so people can schedule sessions according to the therapist's availability.

How these approaches translate to online therapy

Client-Centred Therapy emphasises being heard and understood. In practice this means the counsellor listens closely, reflects what the person says, and supports them to find their own solutions. It can help with anxiety, low mood and difficulties that stem from unhelpful habits or self-criticism.

Existential Therapy looks at meaning, values and life choices. Sessions invite people to consider what matters to them, confront uncertainty, and make decisions that fit their sense of purpose. This approach can be useful for midlife questions, grief, life purpose concerns and facing big changes.

Finding the right approach is a collaborative process. The therapist will discuss what feels most helpful and adapt methods to a person's goals and preferences. Together they will try different ideas and agree on practical steps that can be used between sessions.

If you are considering online work, please confirm the exact session formats before booking, since no specific formats are listed here. Online sessions can make it easier to fit therapy into a busy day, reduce travel time and allow for shorter check-ins when that suits a schedule. They can also make it straightforward to keep continuity when life circumstances change, while still focusing on thoughts and everyday habits in a way that translates across settings.