- Stress and anxiety
- Guilt and shame
- Addictions support
About Michael
Michael Hawthorne is a BACP counsellor practising in the United Kingdom with three years of professional experience. He works with people who are dealing with stress, anxiety, addictions, relationship difficulties and depression. He also supports clients facing LGBT concerns and feelings of guilt and shame.
He keeps sessions straightforward and conversational. He listens to what feels most pressing and helps people sort through specific problems. That can mean talking about unhelpful patterns, rehearsing different ways to handle moments of stress, or mapping choices around addictive behaviours.
Michael pays attention to how relationships and attachment shape current distress. He helps people notice communication habits that leave them frustrated or isolated. For someone carrying shame or guilt, he will look at the beliefs that keep those feelings active and the behaviours that follow.
Sessions aim to be practical. Michael and a client will set clear targets and try out small changes between meetings. He adjusts the pace to what each person can manage and checks in about progress as therapy continues.
He uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques and keeps a respectful, person-centred approach. If you decide to begin, he asks for a short matching questionnaire first and then helps you schedule the first appointment.
How therapeutic approaches are used in online sessions
Michael uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques to help with thoughts, feelings and behaviours. One common approach focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns. It teaches ways to notice automatic thoughts, test them against reality and try alternatives that reduce anxiety and self-criticism. This approach can help with social anxiety, worry and rumination.Another approach looks at attachment and relationship patterns. It helps people see how early bonds influence current relationships and communication. That can be useful for anyone dealing with loneliness, relationship strain or deep-seated shame linked to connection problems.
Choosing the right approach is part of the work. Michael will discuss options with each person and decide together what to try based on goals and preferences. He treats the first sessions as a time to learn how best to proceed and to agree on practical steps.
Practical benefits of online work include fitting sessions into a busy week and removing travel time. It can also let people choose quieter surroundings or opt for a shorter check-in if that suits the day. Please confirm the current session formats and booking details before you sign up, as options may vary.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Additional focus areas
Experience
3+ years
Listed in
United Kingdom
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of problems does he help with?
He works with stress, anxiety, addictions, relationship issues and depression, and also supports people with LGBT concerns, guilt and shame.
How does he approach feelings of guilt or shame?
He talks through the beliefs and behaviours that keep guilt or shame active and helps people try practical changes to reduce their hold.
What is his experience background?
He has three years of professional experience working with the issues listed in his profile.
What credential does he hold and where is he based?
He is registered with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and practises in the United Kingdom.
Does he offer sessions in other languages?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can people from other countries work with him?
He is not currently taking international clients.
How are sessions paid for?
Cost varies by location and sessions use a subscription that can be cancelled at any time.
How do I begin working with him?
Use the See online therapy options button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and then 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.