Vicky Paterson, BACP

Vicky Paterson is a counsellor who uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help people manage stress, anxiety, low mood and relationship difficulties. She is registered with the BACP, has four years of practice, and works with clients who are seeking clearer thinking and more effective coping skills.

Vicky believes people are experts in their own lives and brings a practical, down-to-earth style to sessions. She focuses on small, manageable steps that build confidence. Conversations aim to identify thought patterns and behaviours that keep problems going and try out alternatives in real life.

Her work covers trauma and abuse, self-esteem, motivation, and depression, alongside relationship concerns and general worry. Vicky also supports people facing issues such as abandonment, attachment difficulties, chronic illness or pain, carer stress, body image and communication problems.

Sessions tend to be collaborative and goal-focused. Clients can expect clear explanations, simple tools to practise between sessions, and a steady, encouraging approach. Vicky emphasises strengths and practical changes rather than long, abstract analysis.

She offers help for people dealing with complex combinations of difficulties, including co-morbidity and long-term health challenges. Vicky aims to create space to talk, try new strategies and notice real progress over time.

How CBT and remote sessions work together

Vicky practises Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT helps people spot unhelpful thoughts and try new behaviours to reduce anxiety and low mood. It is action-oriented and often includes simple exercises to practise between sessions.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. The therapist will talk with the client about goals, needs and preferences and then agree a plan together. That plan can be adjusted over time so the methods fit the person's life and progress.

Online formats include video calls, phone sessions, live chat and text-based messaging. Video calls let people see facial cues and use worksheets on screen. Phone sessions can be a better fit when bandwidth is limited or a quick check-in is needed. Live chat and messaging allow shorter, flexible check-ins and written reflections between longer sessions. These options aim to make therapy easier to fit around work, caregiving and travel while keeping the focus on practical tools and steady progress.