Benjamin Raffles, NCPS

Benjamin Raffles trained as a counsellor and has worked in the field for eight years. He practised in Somerset and previously ran a low-cost service to widen access to counselling. Benjamin brings direct experience from independent practice into his current online work.

He describes his approach as integrative, meaning he combines different evidence-based techniques to suit each person. Sessions are shaped around what the individual needs rather than a fixed formula. The emphasis is on listening, understanding and practical ways to move forward.

In a session Benjamin places the person's experience at the centre. He uses empathic listening and straightforward questions to help people clarify feelings and choices. He also suggests simple, practical steps people can try between sessions to test new ways of coping.

Benjamin commonly supports people dealing with stress, anxiety, low self-esteem and depression. He also helps those facing relationship strain, panic attacks, phobias and life changes such as midlife transitions or financial stress.

He pays attention to issues like abandonment, caregiver strain, control problems, loneliness and guilt. Work can include improving communication, exploring life purpose and rebuilding self-love. The aim is to help people notice small shifts that add up to meaningful change.

Sessions are offered in English and are delivered online through video calls, phone sessions, live chat or text messaging. Booking starts by completing a short matching questionnaire and scheduling according to availability.

Therapeutic approaches and online sessions that suit everyday life

Benjamin draws on evidence-based therapeutic techniques in an integrative way. Person-Centred work focuses on listening and valuing the person's experience; it helps when someone needs space to understand their feelings and make decisions. Gestalt-influenced methods bring attention to the present moment and how people experience situations in session, which can be useful for noticing patterns and experimenting with change. Transactional Analysis looks at communication and roles people fall into, and can help with relationship and control issues.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. Benjamin will discuss different options and tailor methods to the person's goals, preferences and what feels helpful in-session. That means approaches can change over time as progress and needs evolve.

Online therapy with video calls, phone sessions, live chat or text messaging offers practical benefits. Video calls let people use visual cues and build rapport. Phone sessions work well when bandwidth is limited or for a focused check-in. Live chat and text messaging suit shorter check-ins or days when typing feels easier. These formats make it easier to fit therapy around work, caregiving and other everyday commitments while keeping the focus on clear, practical steps.