Claire Sims , BACP

Claire Sims is a fully qualified counsellor practising in the United Kingdom with 20 years of professional experience. Trained initially in psychodynamic counselling, she has developed an integrative approach that draws on a broad range of skills to meet each client's needs. Claire supports people with stress and anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma and abuse, sexual violence, domestic violence, grief and loss, self-esteem and addictions, as well as a wide range of family and parenting concerns.

She works in a trauma informed way and places the client at the centre of the process, adapting pace and style to suit individual preferences. Her practice is client led and collaborative - she aims to support people to regain a sense of control and to explore change safely and respectfully. Claire encourages and acknowledges the courage it takes to begin therapy.

Claire began counselling training in 2000 after a career change from hairdressing and time as a stay at home mother, and she started seeing clients in 2005. Over two decades she has worked in diverse roles and settings, including counselling and coordination work with rape crisis services, bereavement support at hospice services, helplines, IAPT services, group facilitation for issues such as food and mood and anger management, and services supporting people with personality disorder traits. She holds the BACP credential, a recognised professional counselling association in the UK, and uses her extensive front-line experience to inform practical, compassionate care.

Psychodynamic and Integrative Approaches in Online Care

Claire Sims draws on psychodynamic therapy to explore how past experiences and unconscious patterns shape current feelings and relationships. This approach can help people understand recurring emotional difficulties, attachment issues, and relational patterns by gently uncovering underlying themes and meanings. She also practises an integrative way of working, blending techniques and perspectives to suit the individual - this can be useful for addressing trauma, anxiety, grief, and life transitions where different tools and perspectives support recovery.

Finding the right therapeutic approach is part of the journey and Claire works collaboratively with each person to identify what fits their needs, goals, and preferences. She and the client discuss options and adapt methods over time so therapy remains relevant and effective.

Online therapy with Claire is offered via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging, providing flexibility for scheduling and varied communication styles. These options make it easier to access consistent support from licensed professionals without needing to travel, and they allow therapy to fit around work, family, and other commitments.