Person-centred counselling can be highly beneficial for individuals struggling with anxiety. By fostering a safe, accepting, and empathetic environment, this approach enables clients to explore their anxious thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment. Key ways in which person-centred counselling helps with anxiety include:

1. Encouraging Self-Exploration – Anxiety often stems from unresolved internal conflicts, self-doubt, or fear of external judgment. Person-centred counselling allows clients to freely express their emotions, helping them understand the root causes of their anxiety.
2. Promoting Self-Acceptance – Many individuals with anxiety struggle with self-criticism and perfectionism. Unconditional positive regard from the counsellor helps clients develop self-compassion and reduce their inner judgment.
3. Reducing Emotional Suppression – Anxiety can intensify when emotions are suppressed. The non-directive approach of person-centred counselling creates a safe space for clients to process and release their emotions healthily.
4. Building Self-Efficacy – Anxiety can make individuals feel powerless. By reinforcing a client’s ability to make their own choices and solve problems, person-centred counselling helps build confidence in their capacity to cope with anxiety-provoking situations.
5. Enhancing Emotional Regulation – Through empathetic reflection and congruence, the counsellor helps the client develop greater emotional awareness, leading to better self-regulation of anxious thoughts and feelings.

Working with Anxiety

Anxiety can manifest in various forms, including generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety, panic attacks, and phobias.

When I work with anxiety I aim at helping individuals manage and reduce anxiety symptoms having the basic foundation of Person-centred but incorporating Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy and not forgetting the tools you have been using without necessarily knowing them!

1. Understanding Anxiety – Educating clients about the nature of anxiety and its physiological and psychological effects.
2. Identifying Triggers – Helping clients recognise situations, thoughts, and behaviours that contribute to their anxiety.
3. Cognitive Restructuring – Encouraging clients to challenge and reframe negative thought patterns.
4. Relaxation Techniques – Teaching coping mechanisms such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness.