- Practical support
- Collaborative approach
- Experienced practitioner
About Richard
Richard Gordon-Smith is a counsellor who helps people facing stress, anxiety, sleep problems and relationship strain. He works with issues like low self-esteem, depression, addiction, grief and parenting concerns. He also supports people with trauma, intimacy questions, eating and anger issues. Richard’s style aims to make talking about difficult things feel straightforward and manageable.
Richard studied psychology before completing an Advanced Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling with the University of Manchester. He holds the NCPS credential. Over 13 years he has worked in mental health settings and refined a practical, conversational approach to therapy.
In sessions he focuses on understanding emotional patterns and everyday reactions. He uses methods that encourage people to notice feelings, try small changes and reflect on what works. Conversations are client-led but gently directed towards clearer thinking and coping strategies.
Richard draws on several therapeutic models depending on the issue and the person. He commonly uses attachment-based ideas to look at relationship patterns, client-centred listening to prioritise the person's experience, and cognitive-behavioural techniques to address unhelpful thoughts and routines. He also integrates emotion-focused and psychodynamic ideas when helpful.
The approach is collaborative: Richard works with each person to set simple goals and practical steps. He aims for sessions that fit into real life, helping people manage sleep, stress, parenting demands and life changes in ways they can try between meetings.
How these therapies translate to online work
Attachment-based work looks at how early relationship patterns shape current reactions and closeness. Online sessions can help people notice repeating patterns and practise different ways of relating to partners or family members.Client-centred therapy focuses on listening and reflecting back what the person says. In remote sessions this means the counsellor offers attentive, non-judgemental listening so the person feels heard and can clarify their own thoughts about sleep, stress or parenting issues.
Cognitive behavioural therapy helps identify unhelpful thoughts and change routines that keep problems going. Online sessions can be used to set practical tasks, track sleep patterns, and try out new strategies between meetings.
Finding the right approach is part of the process. Richard will work collaboratively to decide which methods fit the person's goals and preferences. He adapts the plan as things move forward so the work stays relevant and manageable.
The practical benefits of online therapy include easier fitting of sessions into busy days, shorter check-ins when needed, and options that reduce travel time. The original biography does not list specific session formats, so please confirm which formats are currently offered before booking.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
13+ years
Credentials
United Kingdom
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What concerns does Richard commonly help with?
He supports a wide range of issues including stress, anxiety, sleep problems, depression, relationship and parenting concerns, addictions and grief.
How would you describe his therapeutic style?
His style is conversational and practical, with a focus on understanding feelings and trying small, workable changes between sessions.
What is his background and experience?
Richard studied psychology then completed an Advanced Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling with the University of Manchester and has 13 years' experience in mental health settings.
What credentials and location are listed?
He holds the NCPS credential and practises from the United Kingdom.
Which languages and international options are available?
Sessions are offered in English and he accepts international clients.
What session formats are provided?
The original profile does not specify session formats; please confirm current session options with the service before booking.
How is cost handled?
Cost varies with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be cancelled at any time.
How do I begin working with him?
Use the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule according to therapist availability.