Alan Wake, BACP

Alan Wake meets people who are feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, low mood or a loss of direction. He listens calmly and helps clients untangle problems like low self-esteem, panic, workplace pressure and difficulties with communication. Alan introduces simple steps that aim to make everyday life feel more manageable.

He has three years of counselling experience and is registered with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, BACP. Alan has supported people recovering from trauma and abuse, and those carrying guilt, shame or isolation. He also helps with attachment concerns, forgiveness and growing self-love.

Alan has worked with undergraduate and postgraduate students, including people who came from abroad to study. He meets people from a wide range of backgrounds and life stages and adapts his way of working to each person’s needs. Sessions are offered in English.

In sessions he focuses on clear, practical conversation rather than jargon. He helps clients notice patterns, try small changes and build on what works. The aim is to help someone feel clearer about their choices and more able to move forward.

To begin, a short matching questionnaire helps pair a person with the right support and scheduling is arranged afterwards. Sessions use a subscription that can be cancelled at any time and costs vary with location and therapist availability.

Practical therapy approaches for online support

Alan uses evidence-based approaches that focus on clear skills and actionable steps. One approach emphasises identifying unhelpful thinking and trying alternatives to reduce anxiety and low mood; this helps people manage panic, social anxiety and day-to-day worry. Another approach concentrates on recognising relationship and attachment patterns, which can make it easier to improve communication and feel less isolated. Each method centres on small experiments and learning by doing rather than long explanations.

Finding the right approach is a collaborative process. The therapist will talk with each person about their situation, goals and preferences and then try methods that fit. If something isn’t helpful, adjustments are made so the work suits the individual's needs.

Online sessions are offered by video call, phone, live chat or text-based messaging to give practical flexibility. Video calls allow face-to-face conversation; phone sessions can be a quicker check-in and use less bandwidth; live chat and messaging suit shorter updates or people who prefer writing. These options make it easier to fit therapy around study, work and family life while still getting regular support.