Lisa Ward, BACP

Lisa Ward recognises how difficult it can be to admit when something is not working and believes reaching out takes real strength. She often hears that people try to manage worries, traumas and habits while life carries on, only to reach a point where they decide they need change. In those moments she offers a focused, listening presence where clients can explore what matters to them without feeling they must protect relationships by minimising their experience.

Rather than relying solely on friends or family, Lisa provides a professional space in which honesty and vulnerability are welcomed. Her approach emphasises being truly heard, which she sees as the foundation for making sense of difficulties and beginning to move forward. She describes counselling as a relationship in which mutual listening helps clients to survive, renew and grow.

Alongside a private practice, Lisa has many years of experience working within domestic abuse services, and this background informs her specialism in trauma-focused therapy. Her training includes CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling and related CPCAB qualifications, a Level 6 award in rape and sexual abuse counselling with a trauma-informed emphasis, and BACP accreditation. BACP refers to the UK professional body for counselling and psychotherapy and indicates recognised professional standards. Lisa has completed continued professional development in areas such as trauma-informed work, eating disorders, anxiety, grief and working with male victims of abuse, and she works with a broad range of presenting issues.

Approaches for Trauma and Client-Centered Online Care

Lisa Ward works primarily with client-centered therapy and trauma-focused therapy. Client-centered therapy emphasizes an empathic, non-judgemental relationship in which the therapist reflects and supports the client's own exploration of feelings and choices. This approach can be helpful for issues such as stress, relationship concerns, self-esteem and life transitions because it centres the client's experience and pace.

Trauma-focused therapy is used to address the impact of past abuse, attachment wounds and distressing events. It combines careful attention to safety and pacing with techniques aimed at processing traumatic memories and reducing their hold on daily life, which can support recovery from trauma-related symptoms.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process, and Lisa will work collaboratively with each person to identify methods that match their needs, goals and preferences. She discusses options and adapts the plan as therapy progresses, so clients play an active role in shaping their care.

Online therapy offers practical flexibility, with sessions available by video call, phone, live chat or text-based messaging. These options make it easier to fit therapy into work, family and geographical constraints and can increase accessibility for international clients and those with mobility or caregiving challenges. Registered professionals can deliver meaningful support through these formats while tailoring communication and scheduling to each client's life.