Who I Am and
How I Can Help
I’m Claire Woodward, a BACP-registered counsellor and psychotherapist based in Chiswick and online.
​
I offer a safe, confidential environment where you can explore whatever is on your mind - whether you're facing anxiety, navigating a life transition, or simply feeling stuck.
Together, we’ll work gently and collaboratively toward clarity, healing, and greater self-understanding.
Education
2018-2023
Middlesex University
Middlesex University, BSc (Hons) First Class Honours
​
I hold a First-Class Honours degree in Pluralistic Person-Centred Counselling (Advanced Practitioner) from Middlesex University,
2018-2023
The Metanoia Institute
And a Diploma in Pluralistic Person-Centred Counselling from The Metanoia Institute as well as an Advanced Post-Diploma Certificate in Couples Therapy.
​
I also undertake regular CPD.
My Approach to Therapy
Every person I work with is different, and I believe therapy should reflect that.
Whether you're navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, grief, or simply a feeling that something isn’t quite right, we’ll begin from wherever you are.
My approach is person-centred and pluralistic, which means we’ll work together to find what feels most helpful for you.
​
Different people need different things at different times, so our sessions may draw on a variety of ways of working - whether that’s exploring past experiences, focusing on practical strategies, or making sense of what’s happening in the present. The emphasis is always on what supports you best.
​
At the heart of my work is empathy, openness, and respect. I see you as the expert in your own life, and I aim to create a space where you feel heard, understood, and able to explore what matters most to you.
​
We’ll go at your pace, but also check in together on what’s working and what isn’t, so therapy can evolve in a way that feels meaningful and effective for you. You don’t need to have the answers before you begin - we can find the path forward together.
Areas I Specialise In
I offer a supportive space to explore a wide range of life challenges. Below are the most common areas clients bring to therapy, often interwoven and explored together:
Anxiety, Depression & Low Mood
Compassionate support for generalised anxiety, social anxiety, panic, persistent low mood, stress, burnout, or feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands.
Neurodiversity: ADHD, Autism & Perfectionism
Whether you're navigating an ADHD diagnosis, exploring autistic traits, or wrestling with perfectionism and the inner critic, I provide a thoughtful, validating space to explore these experiences and build confidence.
Trauma, Grief, & Bereavement
Safe and gentle space to process emotional trauma. Whether related to loss, attachment wounds, or complex PTSD. We’ll move at a pace that feels manageable for you.
Relationships & Couples Work
Support for individuals and couples navigating relational strains, communication difficulties, or transitions. My couples training helps couples find new ways to reconnect, communicate, or resolve conflict.
Self-Esteem, Identity & Life Transitions
Support during times of shift - whether navigating identity, life purpose, grief, boarding-school issues, addiction recovery, or attachment disruption - helping you rediscover a sense of belonging and meaning.
My Approach to Therapy
Every person I work with is different, and I believe therapy should reflect that. Whether you're navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, grief, or simply a feeling that something isn’t quite right, we’ll begin from wherever you are.
​
My approach is both person-centred and pluralistic, which means I draw on a range of therapeutic methods and tailor our work to suit you - rather than applying a one-size-fits-all model. This might include elements of psychodynamic therapy, CBT, or trauma-informed practices, depending on what feels most helpful and appropriate for your needs.
​
At the heart of my work is empathy, openness, and respect. I see you as the expert in your own life, and I aim to provide a warm, non-judgemental space where you can speak freely, feel truly heard, and begin to reconnect with yourself.
We’ll go at your pace, exploring things gently and collaboratively.
​
You don’t need to have all the answers - or even a clear question - to begin.
Therapy can be a space to pause, reflect, and gradually uncover insight and clarity, supported by someone who’s truly listening.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Therapy begins with a conversation. Whether you’re ready to book your first consultation or simply exploring your options, I’d be happy to hear from you. Reach out today or browse the FAQs to learn more about therapy and my practice.