Dr. John Hilsdon, BACP

Dr. John Hilsdon helps people who are struggling with stress, anxiety, addictions, relationship problems, grief and depression. He is based in the United Kingdom and brings 24 years of experience to his work. He aims to make it easier to start talking about hard things and to take the next step towards change.

He creates a calm space where people can say what they think and feel without judgement. Sessions focus on understanding what matters to the person and on practical ways to manage day-to-day life. Conversations can include coping strategies for panic attacks, ways to reduce compulsive behaviours, or support through bereavement and end-of-life concerns.

Dr Hilsdon uses client-centred methods that follow the person rather than a rigid plan. He also draws on existential ideas to help people explore meaning, life purpose and the values that matter to them. This mix suits people facing midlife questions, major life changes, or ongoing emotional pain.

He has particular experience with challenges linked to cancer, first responder issues, prejudice and discrimination, and process addictions such as gambling or compulsive sexual behaviour. He also supports men’s issues, communication difficulties and feelings of isolation or jealousy.

Sessions are offered in English and can take place by video call, phone, live chat or text-based messaging. To begin, a short matching questionnaire helps connect someone with the right therapist and schedule.

How his approaches work online

Client-Centred Therapy focuses on the person’s own experience. In this approach the therapist listens carefully and follows what the client brings to the room, helping people feel heard and understood. It is useful for anxiety, depression, grief and relationship worries.

Existential Therapy invites people to consider meaning, choice and values. It helps when someone faces big questions about life purpose, midlife change or serious illness, and can support people dealing with guilt, shame or loss.

Choosing the right approach is part of the work together. He will discuss goals, preferences and what feels most helpful, and then tailor sessions to match those needs in a collaborative way.

Online sessions are available by video call, phone session, live chat or text-based messaging. Video calls are close to face-to-face conversation, phone sessions can be useful when bandwidth is limited, live chat lets someone check in quickly, and messaging supports shorter ongoing contact between meetings. These options make it easier to fit therapy around work, family and other commitments, and to keep continuity when life gets busy.