Mark Richardson

I currently have limited session availability - please contact me for further info of availability and waiting list.

I work using a humanistic approach to counselling, using the versatile and inclusive framework of the Gestalt therapeutic modality to help clients better understand themselves, how they interact with others and in relationships.

Every client is unique and Gestalt therapy facilitates counselling tailored to every client’s individual need.

Gestalt therapy focuses on our current experience in the here-and-now moment. Experiences from the past, particularly negative and distressing ones, can continue to affect us in the present and impact our personal behaviour and relationships.

As a Gestalt therapist I work collaboratively with every client to explore their current emotions and feelings, aiming to assist in finding new understanding and acceptance of personal problems they wish to address.

Through Gestalt therapy client’s may be challenged to consider alternative options and possibilities outside of their present awareness. Gestalt therapy is a ‘talking therapy’ involving discussion between client and counsellor, but can also involve creative methods to explore client issues.

I offer long-term and short-term counselling to adults from 18 years old, face-to-face and online.

I am a fully qualified psychotherapeutic counsellor. I offer a welcoming, non-judgemental and supportive counselling service which is based on the core counselling conditions of empathy, confidentiality and respect.

I am down-to-earth, friendly and relatable in my counselling approach. People say they experience me as calm and approachable, finding me consistent and reliable, honest and trustworthy.

I provide a trusting, safe and confidential therapeutic space where clients can come to speak honestly and openly and be understood and accepted for who they really are. Working collaboratively, I aim to help each client to explore and expand their self-awareness and self-understanding, empowering them to move forward with greater self-esteem and confidence towards a more contented life experience.

Alongside my private practice at Be Well Counselling, I volunteer with an inner-city Southampton based charitable organisation offering subsidised counselling services with emphasis on survivors of domestic abuse. I value this role particularly highly as I believe that mental well-being support should be available to everybody regardless of their personal background or circumstances. I also work in the student well-being service of a local university providing counselling support to UK and international university students, and have worked with a national bereavement organisation supporting clients through the impact of loss and grief.

In these positions I have supported clients with a wide range of personal issues including anxiety and depression, low self-esteem and burnout. I have helped clients explore and process impact of abuse and trauma, domestic abuse, bereavement and grief. I have helped clients in their processing and working through relationship issues and divorce, parenting issues and changes in personal circumstance.

I offer a free no-obligation initial consultation face-to-face or by video call during which we can briefly discuss your reasons and aims for seeking counselling.

It is then your choice if you wish to work with me.