Find a counsellor

Michael Hawthorne, BACP

Based in the UK Online sessions

Compassionate counsellor for stress and LGBT concerns

Book with Michael
About

About Michael

Michael Hawthorne is a counsellor based in the United Kingdom who helps people manage stress, anxiety, addictions, relationship problems and depression. He also supports those navigating LGBT issues and the knock-on effects of isolation and social anxiety. His work aims to meet people where they are and to make the first steps feel manageable.

Michael draws on three years of professional experience to shape straightforward talking therapy. He treats people with respect, sensitivity and compassion, and adapts the pace to the individual.

Background and approach

Sessions are shaped around the problems brought in, whether that is overwhelming worry, low mood, or patterns that keep repeating in relationships. In practical terms he focuses on communication, attachment concerns, and the feelings of guilt or shame that often follow addiction or difficult choices. He helps people notice unhelpful patterns and try clearer ways of relating to themselves and others.

Work often includes simple strategies for coping with social anxiety and for building greater self-love. Michael uses a collaborative style. He discusses options and helps people choose what fits best for them.

He aims to make goals concrete and easy to review as therapy progresses. To begin, people complete a short matching questionnaire and then schedule sessions according to availability. The service runs on a subscription model that can be cancelled at any time.

Focus areas and approaches

What Michael works with

Everything Michael lists, in their own terms. LGBT is the reason Michael is listed here; the rest shows what else Michael works with.

Online support

Therapeutic approaches and how they work online

Michael uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques focused on clear, practical change. One common approach he draws on helps people identify and change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviours that keep anxiety or low mood in place. This method breaks problems into smaller steps and teaches coping strategies that can be practised between sessions.

Another frequent focus is on attachment and relationship patterns. This approach looks at how past and current relationships shape expectations and communication, and it helps people try new ways of relating that reduce conflict and loneliness.

Finding the right approach is part of the work itself. Michael discusses options with each person and chooses methods together based on needs, goals and preferences. He treats therapy as a collaborative process and checks in regularly to see what is helpful.

If you are considering online therapy, confirm the session options before booking as formats were not specified in the original biography. Online sessions can make it easier to fit therapy into a busy life, for example by removing travel time or allowing a session in a quieter part of the day. They can also suit people who prefer shorter check-ins or who want the flexibility to schedule around work or other commitments.
Questions

Questions people ask about Michael

What kinds of difficulties does Michael help with?

He works with stress, anxiety, addictions, relationship problems and depression, and also supports people with LGBT related concerns and social anxiety.

What is his general approach in sessions?

His style is collaborative and practical, tailoring conversations and plans to each person's needs and goals.

How much professional experience does he have?

He has three years of professional work experience in the UK.

What credentials does he hold and where is he based?

He is listed with the BACP and works from the United Kingdom.

Which languages are offered for sessions?

Sessions are offered in English.

Can people from other countries book sessions?

International clients are not currently accepted.

How are sessions paid for and what do they cost?

Sessions use a subscription model that can be cancelled at any time; costs vary with location and therapist availability.

How do I begin working with him?

Start by selecting the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and then schedule sessions according to the therapist's availability.

More counsellors who work with stress & anxiety

See all of them

3 years in practice

Gentle practical counselling for difficult times

  • Stress, Anxiety
  • Trauma and abuse
  • Grief

4 years in practice English, Lao

Understanding and practical support for difficult times

  • Stress, Anxiety
  • Family
  • Self esteem

4 years in practice

Compassionate counsellor for life’s difficult moments

  • Stress, Anxiety
  • Anger
  • Self esteem