David O'Hara, BACP

David O'Hara works with people facing anxiety, depression, stress and the everyday struggles of self-doubt, people-pleasing and relationship difficulties. He frames distress as a natural response to life’s pressures and offers a collaborative space where someone can explore their thoughts and feelings without judgement. He believes each person has the capacity for change, and he aims to support clients in uncovering strengths, values and inner resources that help them face challenges with greater clarity and authenticity.

David draws on person-centered principles to create an empathic, respectful environment that prioritises trust and compassion. He integrates mindfulness practices and evidence-informed techniques to tailor sessions to individual needs, helping clients develop insight, self-acceptance and practical strategies for day-to-day coping. Whether someone is new to mindfulness or has an established practice, he adapts the pace and focus to suit their preferences and experience.

His training includes a BSc in Psychology - an undergraduate degree in psychology - and an MSc in Consumer Psychology - a master’s degree focusing on how people make decisions. He also holds a Certificate in Counselling Skills, a Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching Mindfulness-Based Approaches. He studied for three years at the Bangor Centre for Mindfulness Research and Practice, gaining experience with Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). He has studied psychology for ten years, which informs his integrated approach to counselling and practical strategies for modern life.

David welcomes people who recognise a desire for change and seeks to support them in taking the next steps. He offers a steady, non-judgemental presence and works collaboratively to help clients build insight, resilience and more satisfying ways of relating to themselves and others.

Therapeutic approaches and flexible online support

David commonly draws on client-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based approaches. Client-centered therapy focuses on empathic listening and creating a respectful, non-directive space where people can explore their feelings and build self-understanding - it is helpful for self-esteem, relationship patterns and life transitions. CBT involves identifying unhelpful thinking and behaviour patterns and practising practical strategies to reduce anxiety and low mood; it is often used for anxiety, depression and stress management. Mindfulness-based work teaches present-moment awareness and simple practices that can reduce reactivity and support coping with stress, sleep difficulties and emotional overwhelm.

Finding the right approach is part of the work itself. David treats therapy as a collaborative process and will help clients decide which combination of methods fits their needs, goals and personal preferences. Together they can adjust focus and techniques as progress is made.

Online therapy offers practical flexibility. Sessions by video call, phone, live chat or text-based messaging allow people to access registered professionals from home or other convenient locations, fit appointments around work and family commitments, and continue therapeutic work when life circumstances change. This range of formats helps make regular support more accessible and easier to maintain.