Rate James Saunders

Hi, I'm James, a BACP Registered and NCPS Accredited Psychotherapeutic Counsellor based in the UK. I offer online therapy for adults and young adults (18+) facing everyday challenges, mental health concerns, or emotional difficulties.

I’m not your stereotypical counsellor: I’m a 42-year-old man who’s young at heart but seasoned by life.

From Boardroom to Breakthrough: For years, I navigated the high-pressure world of e-commerce, working with global fashion and sports brands. It was exciting, demanding, and eventually…burning. Anxiety, depression, and addiction became my unwelcome companions. What followed was a transformative journey of recovery and rediscovery. I recovered from the fast lane to guide you on yours.

Freedom From Addiction: 12-step recovery programs showed me the path to contentment and peace.

Healing Past Trauma: Spiritual psychotherapy helped me unpack hidden baggage.

Meditation Coach: Eastern practices brought calmness and focus to my life.  I blend traditional therapy with meditation techniques for a well-rounded approach.

Career Shift: I retrained as a counsellor, fuelled by a desire to help others.

Beyond the textbook: My own experiences inform my approach, making therapy relatable and insightful.

Highly empathetic listener: I truly want to understand your unique experience.

Relaxed approach: No judgment, just a chance for you to be yourself and feel heard.

Feeling Stressed, Stuck, Lost or Unbalanced?

Life can throw curveballs. Maybe you're stressed, anxious, or simply lost sight of yourself. I provide a safe, judgement-free space to explore your challenges and help find your path forward. I believe in your strength and ability to heal, and I’m here to walk alongside you on your journey.

My Approach

I offer a person-centered approach to counselling, providing a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I believe in your ability to find your own solutions with the right support. While my primary modality is person-centered, I may also incorporate elements of Gestalt, Psychodynamic, and CBT if they are appropriate for your needs.

My Experience

I have experience working as a volunteer counsellor at the Herefordshire branch of Mind for several years, providing support to individuals with a range of mental health issues. Additionally, I have worked for Shout 85258, offering confidential support to texters in crisis. My experience as a sponsor in 12-step recovery groups has given me a deep understanding of addiction and recovery. I am currently working as a therapist on the BetterHelp online platform. This role has allowed me to support a wide range of clients and issues from all across the UK.

My Focus

I provide flexible and convenient online and telephone counselling to individuals in the UK. While I do not have specific specialties, I have lived experience of some common issues, including anxiety, depression, and addiction.

What to Expect

A safe and confidential space: I prioritise your comfort and well-being.

A person-centered approach: I believe in your ability to find your own solutions.

Tailored support: I will work with you to develop a plan that meets your unique needs.

Flexibility: I offer online and telephone sessions to accommodate your schedule.

Training, qualifications & experience

I'm a qualified Psychotherapeutic Counsellor with a Level 4 Diploma. I am NCPS Accredited & BACP Registered. I have several years of experience supporting individuals at the UK mental health charity Mind. In addition to my core training, I am committed to ongoing professional development (CPD) to ensure I offer the most up-to-date support. My recent CPD courses include: Trauma-Informed Practice - Principles and Foundations, Delivering Substance Use Brief Interventions for Adults, Suicide Prevention and Awareness.

I also understand the challenges of recovery first-hand, having been involved with 12-step recovery groups for alcoholism and drug addiction. This experience allows me to better connect with clients facing similar issues.