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Counselling Online

Identity & Life Transitions
Supportive reflections on identity, self-esteem, uncertainty, change, life transitions, personal growth, and feeling emotionally stuck. Articles exploring how major life events can affect emotional wellbeing.


World Suicide Prevention Day 2026: A Conversation Could Save a Life
This World Suicide Prevention Day, the message is simple: we need to talk about suicide. You do not have to be a therapist to ask someone how they really are, listen without judgement and help them take the next step towards support.

Paul Madden
Sep 34 min read


Grief After a Breakup: Do You Miss Them — Or Who You Were With Them?
Sometimes after a relationship ends, what we miss most is not simply the other person. We may miss how we felt with them — desired, interesting, confident or alive. Inspired by a video from my friend and colleague Julie, I explore the grief of losing both a relationship and a version of yourself.

Paul Madden
Sep 17 min read


Dolly Parton, Celebrity Grief and Why We Mourn People We Never Knew
The death of a famous person can affect us far more deeply than we expect. Following the death of Dolly Parton, I explore why people can genuinely grieve someone they never met, how public loss can reconnect us with our own memories and why those feelings should not be dismissed.

Paul Madden
Aug 269 min read


Imposter Syndrome in High Achievers: Why Feeling Like a Fraud Doesn’t Mean You Are One
Imposter syndrome can make capable people feel like frauds. Learn why self-doubt often signals growth — and how therapy can help you build confidence and resilience.

Paul Madden
Aug 245 min read


When Your Partner Is Diagnosed With Cancer: Coping With the Stress No One Talks About
When your partner is diagnosed with cancer, the emotional impact can affect you too. Fear, uncertainty, guilt, exhaustion and changes in intimacy or everyday roles can place significant pressure on a relationship. This article explores the often-overlooked experience of supporting someone you love through cancer and why partners and carers may need support of their own.

Paul Madden
Aug 1914 min read


Living Through the Year of Firsts After Loss: Grief, Anniversaries and Healing
The first year after losing someone can bring painful reminders, anniversaries and emotional milestones. This article explores grief, bereavement and gentle ways to navigate the “year of firsts” after loss.

Paul Madden
Aug 163 min read


The Two Sides of Fame: Mental Health, Identity and Life in the Public Eye
Fame can bring success, opportunity and recognition, but life in the public eye can also bring pressure, scrutiny and a loss of privacy. I explore the two sides of fame, identity and mental health, and why having a confidential space where you can simply be yourself can matter.

Paul Madden
Aug 106 min read


Understanding Sex and Love Addiction Without Blame
Sex and love addiction can feel emotionally overwhelming, confusing, and difficult to control. Explore compulsive sexual behaviour, intimacy, shame, relationships, emotional wellbeing, and support without judgement.

Paul Madden
Aug 93 min read


Bad Relationship Advice That Can Damage Your Mental Health
From “love conquers all” to “never go to bed angry,” some relationship advice can do more harm than good. This article explores unhealthy relationship myths, boundaries and emotional wellbeing in healthy relationships.

Paul Madden
Jul 312 min read


Men's Mental Wellbeing: Taking the First Step Towards Better Mental Health
Men's mental wellbeing is essential for living a healthy and balanced life. Discover practical self-care strategies, support options, and when to seek professional help to improve your mental health and wellbeing.

Paul Madden
Jun 215 min read


Signs of Poor Mental Health in Men: What to Look Out For
Recognising the signs of poor mental health in men can make a real difference. Learn how irritability, anger, withdrawal, sleep problems, and increased alcohol use may indicate someone is struggling.

Paul Madden
Jun 175 min read


Loneliness vs Being Alone: What's the Difference?
Loneliness and being alone are often mistaken for the same thing, but they are very different experiences. In this article, we explore the difference between loneliness vs being alone, why you can feel lonely even when surrounded by others, and how understanding this distinction can support emotional wellbeing and meaningful connection.

Paul Madden
Jun 154 min read


Men's Health Week 2026: Why It's Time for Men to Prioritise Their Mental Health
Men's Health Week 2026 highlights the importance of men's mental health. Discover how counselling can help men manage stress, anxiety, and life's challenges.

Paul Madden
Jun 154 min read


Coming Out: A Personal Journey of Truth and Care
Coming out is not a single moment but a personal journey of identity, honesty and emotional care. This article explores LGBTQ wellbeing, support and navigating coming out at your own pace.

Paul Madden
Jun 13 min read


Why Do I Feel Empty Even When Life Looks Fine?
Feeling emotionally empty does not always mean crisis. Sometimes it reflects burnout, emotional suppression, hidden depression, or losing connection with yourself over time.

Paul Madden
May 254 min read


Coping With Separation and Divorce: Emotional Support Through Relationship Change
Separation and divorce can affect identity, emotional wellbeing, confidence, and daily life in profound ways. Support and understanding can help you navigate the transition.

Paul Madden
May 204 min read


Coping With Job Loss: Stress, Anxiety and Rebuilding Confidence
Job loss can affect confidence, routine, identity, and emotional wellbeing. This article explores common emotional reactions to losing a job and practical ways to cope and rebuild.

Paul Madden
Apr 214 min read


High-Functioning Alcoholic: Signs, Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Many people struggling with alcohol dependence continue functioning outwardly while silently relying on alcohol to cope. This article explores the signs, emotional impact, and when to seek support.

Paul Madden
Apr 214 min read


Hello, I’m Paul Madden | BACP Accredited Online Counsellor
Meet Paul Madden, a BACP accredited online counsellor and psychotherapist offering confidential therapy for anxiety, stress, grief, burnout, relationships, identity, and emotional wellbeing across the UK and internationally.

Paul Madden
Mar 292 min read
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