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Anna Koolen

Anna Koolen, BACP

United Kingdom

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BACP counsellor - stress and addictions

  • Client-Centred approach
  • Motivational Interviewing
  • Psychodynamic work

About Anna

Anna Koolen is a BACP counsellor practising in the United Kingdom with five years of professional experience. She works with people who are dealing with stress, anxiety, addiction and other major life challenges. Anna frames clients as the experts in their own stories and helps them use their strengths to move forward.

In sessions she focuses on what the person brings, not on labels. She talks through immediate concerns like panic, low mood, substance use or trouble sleeping. She also helps people facing career change, relationship strain, grief or feelings of shame and guilt.

Her way of working draws on client-centred and psychodynamic ideas. That means she pays attention to what clients say now, and how past patterns show up in current life. Motivational Interviewing is used when someone needs to strengthen motivation for change, such as cutting down on alcohol or starting treatment.

Conversations are practical and reflective. Anna listens for patterns in relationships, communication and self-view, then explores small steps a person can try between sessions. She aims to keep things straightforward and focused on daily life rather than jargon.

People who come for help often want clear ways to handle overwhelming emotions, manage addiction urges, or untangle recurring guilt. Anna accepts international clients and works in English. To begin, clients complete a short matching questionnaire and book an initial session.

Her approach suits people who want a collaborative, conversational style that looks at both present issues and the roots of repeating patterns.

How her approaches translate to online work

Client-Centred Therapy focuses on listening and responding to what the client says. The counsellor follows the person’s lead and reflects what is important, which can help with anxiety, low mood and shame by clarifying feelings and priorities.

Existential Therapy looks at meaning, choice and responsibility. It can help people facing life changes, career questions or a sense of emptiness by naming what matters and the options available.

Motivational Interviewing is a practical, short-term way to strengthen a person’s own reasons for change. It is often used when someone wants to reduce substance use or increase follow-through on goals.

Choosing an approach is collaborative. The therapist will talk with the client about goals, preferences and what has helped or not helped before. Together they decide which methods to try and adjust them as work progresses.

If you plan to use online sessions, check which session formats are offered before booking. Anna’s profile does not list specific session types, so confirming options ensures the practical setup fits into everyday life. Online work can make it easier to fit therapy around work and family, avoid travel time, or use shorter check-ins when needed.

Areas of expertise

Also works with

Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseCareer difficultiesDepressionADHD

Therapeutic approaches

Client-Centered TherapyExistential TherapyMotivational InterviewingPsychodynamic Therapy

Experience

5+ years

Listed in

United Kingdom

Languages

English

Frequently asked questions

What concerns does she address?

She works with stress, anxiety, addictions, depression and related issues such as grief, guilt and shame.

How would she approach shame or guilt?

She uses conversational, client-centred work alongside psychodynamic ideas to look at how past patterns feed current feelings of guilt or shame.

What is her professional background?

She has five years of professional experience supporting people with anxiety, addiction and life changes.

Which credential does she hold and where is she based?

She is registered with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and practises in the United Kingdom.

Can I work with her if I live outside the UK?

Yes, she accepts international clients and conducts sessions in English.

What formats are used for sessions?

Session formats are not specified in the biography; please confirm current session options before booking.

How are sessions charged?

Cost varies with location and sessions use a subscription that can be cancelled at any time.

How do I begin working with her?

Start by selecting the See online therapy options button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session.

Online talk therapy is not emergency care. If you are in danger or thinking about harming yourself, use the crisis numbers.

Anna KoolenBACP

Continue with Anna