PrivateCounsellingOnline.Com
Hello
A Safe, Experienced Space to Talk
I’m Paul Madden, a BACP accredited counsellor (since 2018) with over 20 years’ experience supporting people through some of life’s most difficult moments, having worked in helping roles since 2003.
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I offer online and telephone counselling for people navigating grief, loss, diagnosis, identity, and change. Whether you’re coming to counselling for the first time or returning after a break, I aim to provide a space that feels safe, steady, and easy to step into.
My Approach to Counselling
I work in an integrative way, which means I draw on different therapeutic approaches depending on what you need.
My work is:
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Warm, grounded, and non-judgmental
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Structured but flexible, with a clear sense of direction
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Focused on helping you make sense of what you're going through
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Paced in a way that feels manageable and safe
Many of the people I work with are new to counselling, so I understand how important it is that the process feels clear, respectful, and not overwhelming.
Bereavement & Grief
Support with loss, whether recent or long ago, including sudden loss, anticipatory grief, and complex bereavement.
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Living with a Diagnosis
A space to talk openly about diagnosis, stigma, identity, relationships, and emotional impact—without shame or judgement.
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LGBTQ+
Support around identity, relationships, sexual health, stigma, and navigating services that may not always feel inclusive.
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First-Time Counselling
If you’ve never had therapy before, I’ll guide you through the process in a clear and supportive way.
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Life Changes & Adjustment
Support through transitions such as illness, caring roles, relationship changes, or major life shifts.
Over the years, I’ve worked in:
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Hospice and end-of-life care
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NHS services, including sexual health clinics and HIV departments
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Community settings supporting marginalised groups
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Within two large London NHS Foundation Trusts, I worked in sexual health and HIV services, supporting people through a wide range of experiences. This included diagnosis and adjustment to conditions such as STIs, herpes and HIV, as well as more complex and sensitive issues including chemsex, sexual assault and rape. It’s work that requires a steady, non-judgemental approach, particularly at times when people may feel vulnerable or overwhelmed.
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Alongside this, my work in hospice care has given me a deep understanding of grief, loss, and the emotional impact of life-limiting illness.
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Together, this experience means I’m comfortable working with complex, sensitive, and emotionally intense situations—always at a pace that feels right for you.
Working Together
I offer counselling online (video) and by telephone, making it easier to access support wherever you are.
You can expect:
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A confidential and consistent space
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Clear boundaries and ethical practice (BACP framework)
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A collaborative approach—we work together at your pace
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Regular check-ins to make sure the work is helpful
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There’s no pressure to share everything at once. We take it step by step.
Why You Might Be Here
There’s no one reason people come to therapy. You might be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, low in confidence, or simply not yourself. Maybe you're stuck at a crossroads, facing a difficult decision, or carrying something you’ve never quite been able to put into words.
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That’s okay. You don’t need a diagnosis or a crisis to justify reaching out. Sometimes, just knowing that something feels off is reason enough to seek support.
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As a BACP-accredited Integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist, I offer a calm, non-judgemental space where we can begin to make sense of things together. Whether you're dealing with depression, grief, health anxiety, relationship struggles, stress, or questions around identity or self-worth, therapy can help you feel more grounded, understood, and supported as you move forward.
How Therapy Can Help
It may sound simple, but being truly listened to — without judgment or interruption — can be incredibly powerful. Therapy offers space to pause, reflect, and begin to make sense of your experiences, especially when life feels confusing or overwhelming.
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My approach is relational, which means I focus on the connection we build together. That relationship becomes the foundation for understanding, healing, and meaningful change.
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We’ll work at your pace. You won’t be told what to do or expected to have all the answers. Instead, I’ll support you in exploring your thoughts, feelings, and patterns — helping you discover your own insights, clarity, and direction.
Not Sure if Therapy
Is Right for You?
It’s completely normal to feel uncertain. If you’re not sure whether therapy is the right step, I’m always happy to have an informal chat so you can get a feel for how I work. There’s no pressure — just a chance to connect and see if it feels like the right fit.