Mike McCarthy

On Mondays and Tuesdays I offer sessions from 8am to 8.30pm (last appointment start time 7.30pm). Wednesday and Thursday I offer sessions from 8am to 6pm (last appointment time 5pm). Time slots are dependant on availability.  

What brings you here?

If you are considering having counselling, then you are probably experiencing some sort of difficulty in your life. This could be a major loss or disappointment, relationship difficulties, lifestyle issues, big life changes, lack of direction or work problems. It is the feelings which follow these life situations that make it so difficult. Anxiety, depression, anger, overwhelming stress, grief, physical problems and shame being a few examples. But often these troubling internal experiences are happening, and you cannot attribute it to a specific thing. You may even feel that you have a good life yet be experiencing depression or anxiety. You will have your own unique reasons for looking at therapy.

About me

I am very passionate about therapy having seen and experienced its power to heal both personally and with clients. I am inspired by how the process of gently and skilfully paying attention to our experience can create such positive shifts. It is a privilege to accompany and work alongside a client as they undertake this process.

My counselling training combined the understanding and knowledge of western psychotherapy with the wisdom and compassion of Buddhist psychology. I specialise in working with people experiencing anxiety and depression, helping them to find a way forward.

In addition to counselling, I teach therapeutic meditation (mindfulness, self-compassion and embodiment) and sheng zhen movement and stillness meditation. I have explored spirituality for many years and offer soul therapy to those looking at the deeper aspects of themselves and the world around them. Connecting with nature is also important to me. All of these experiences will undoubtedly inform my practice as a therapist.

How would we work together?

I offer heart centred care, acceptance, and an empathic environment where you can be deeply heard and understood; this therapeutic atmosphere creates conditions for effective therapy to happen. Counselling is a collaborative process. You will bring what is important to you and I will help you explore and understand it better.

There are lots of creative and innovative methods we can potentially use such as projective tools (using objects), mindfulness, therapeutic art, somatic (body) awareness, behavioural work and self-compassion focus. However, therapy is much more than a method. It is a human relationship that can support and help you.

Potential for psychological wellbeing resides in all of us. Counselling is not about “fixing” anyone, but unblocking that which hinders, leaving you in a better place to live the life you want.

How counselling can help you?

Having someone to talk with and confide in, who is there to listen and support you through a difficult time is invaluable. It is your designated time and space where you can be yourself. Many clients feel more comfortable talking to a therapist because you will be listened to without judgement, and in confidence. Often talking about what is inside can bring a tremendous release.

In the sessions, you will have the space to explore what is happening in your world and the experiences that you are having. This exploration can help you better understand your situation, thoughts, feelings and behaviours as well as the potential for new possibilities to emerge. Positive change often follows.

It is a common misconception that therapy is all about difficulties and being stuck in the mud. Even in the most challenging of terrains beautiful flowers grow. You may naturally uncover personal qualities, innate positive experiences, interests and a deeper appreciation of life, yourself and others. This can greatly help you with the issue you came in with. 

Your next step

If you would like to find out more, I offer a free 20-minute introductory phone call or zoom meeting. We can explore what brings you here, whether I can be of help to you with your particular situation and whether we would like to have a first session. I work with clients who are eighteen and over and live in the United Kingdom. I work online and face to face in Tunbridge Wells.