Claire Austen, NCPS

Claire Austen is a fully qualified and insured person-centred counsellor who originally trained in London and now practises in Lincolnshire. She holds the NCPS credential, a recognised professional counselling qualification, and has five years of experience working therapeutically with a wide range of concerns.

During her practice Claire has supported people experiencing depression, anxiety, chronic low mood, relationship difficulties and grief, among other issues. She works with clients of all ages and backgrounds and offers a warm, empathic, non-judgemental environment where individuals can explore their experiences and begin to unlock personal strengths and potential.

While her main passion is for a person-centred approach, Claire integrates techniques from other counselling models to meet each person where they are. She believes that once barriers are brought into awareness, people are often able to recognise what will best support their wellbeing. In addition to her degree and counselling qualifications, she holds a diploma in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - enabling her to offer practical strategies that clients can use between sessions.

Claire understands that starting therapy can feel daunting and aims to accompany clients with patience and respect, creating a supportive space for the full range of feelings and experiences.

Person-centred and CBT support delivered online

Claire Austen commonly works from a person-centred framework, which focuses on creating an empathic, non-judgemental space so clients can explore their feelings and self-awareness. This approach helps with issues such as low mood, relationship concerns and the emotional impact of life changes by supporting each person to find their own solutions.

She also uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - a practical approach that helps identify and reframe unhelpful thoughts and behaviours. CBT is often useful for managing anxiety, depression and coping strategies for daily stressors. Additionally, Attachment-Based Therapy may be drawn on to understand how early relationship patterns influence current connections and attachment concerns.

Finding the right mix of approaches is part of the therapeutic process, and Claire works collaboratively with clients to determine what best fits their needs, goals and preferences. Registered professionals and therapists often combine methods to tailor care, and Claire will explain options and adjust the plan as work progresses.

Online therapy offers practical flexibility - sessions can take place by video call, phone, live chat or text-based messaging - making it easier to access consistent support around work, family and geographic constraints. This format helps maintain continuity of care for people in different locations or with busy schedules.