Matthew Black

Matthew Black is a counsellor who aims to make therapy practical and approachable. He works with people facing grief, stress, anxiety, addictions and depression. He also supports those dealing with self-esteem concerns, relationship strain, family-related stress and compassion fatigue. Matthew has five years of professional experience and holds the NCPS credential.

He uses a client-centred approach that keeps the conversation focused on each person’s needs. That means sessions are shaped around what matters to the client, and the pace is set together. He also draws on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy to help people notice and change unhelpful thinking and behaviour patterns.

Matthew offers support for several specific areas, including gender dysphoria, hoarding, personality disorders, phobias, polyamory or non-monogamous relationship issues, and intellectual disability. He aims to listen without judgement and to adapt what happens in sessions to the situation in front of him.

In practice he will work with clients to set clear, realistic goals. Sessions often involve talking things through, trying small experiments, and practicing new ways of coping between meetings. Progress is reviewed regularly so plans can be adjusted as needed.

For people who are nervous about starting therapy, Matthew tries to make the first steps straightforward. He asks about what a person wants to change and then builds a plan together. He presents therapy as a collaborative process focused on practical steps and support.

How Matthew’s approaches translate to online work

Client-Centred Therapy focuses on understanding each person and tailoring sessions to their needs. It involves open listening, reflecting what you say, and shaping goals together to fit your life. This approach helps when someone needs a gentle, flexible way to talk through difficult changes.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, or CBT, helps people identify unhelpful thoughts and try new behaviours. It often includes small exercises between sessions, such as testing a belief or practising a new skill. CBT can be useful for anxiety, depression, stress and some phobias.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. Matthew will discuss different options and decide together which methods fit your goals and daily life. The process is collaborative and can be adjusted as therapy progresses.

If you are considering online therapy, check the available session options before booking so you know how meetings will be arranged. Many people find online sessions make it easier to fit therapy into a busy schedule, reduce travel time and allow shorter check-ins when needed. Registered or accredited professionals can use different formats, so confirm what this counsellor offers and then choose what suits your routine.