Paula Byrne, BACP

Paula Byrne is a UK-based therapist who offers calm, non-judgmental support to people facing stress, anxiety, relationship struggles, trauma, grief and related concerns. She creates a relaxed space where clients can begin to unravel thoughts and feelings that feel tangled or overwhelming, and she adapts each session to the client’s pace and needs. Paula emphasizes honest, attentive listening and aims to help people identify and build on their underlying strengths as they work toward change.

Her background includes roles in a GP surgery, a homeless hostel and with the Samaritans, experiences that informed her approach to compassionate listening and practical support. Before training in counselling she worked as a hairdresser and barber, and she credits those early roles with teaching the value of connection and genuine care in conversations about life’s challenges. She has six years of professional experience and holds BACP, which is the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, indicating UK credentialing in counselling standards.

Paula works with a wide range of concerns including phobias, PTSD, addictions, intimacy-related issues, family conflict, and parenting or blended family challenges. She also focuses on attachment and abandonment issues, autism and Asperger syndrome, body image, caregiver stress, codependency and relationship dynamics. She is described as caring, thoughtful, supportive, empathetic, reliable and fun to be around, and she welcomes clients who are ready to take the first brave steps toward change.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Support

Paula draws on Attachment-Based Therapy, Client-Centred Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to tailor support to each person’s needs. Attachment-Based Therapy explores how early relationship patterns influence current connections and can help with abandonment, intimacy and relationship difficulties. Client-Centred Therapy emphasizes a warm, non-directive stance where the client’s own goals and pace guide the work and is useful for building self-worth and exploring personal challenges. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying unhelpful thoughts and behaviours and learning practical strategies to manage symptoms such as anxiety, stress and phobias.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process and Paula works collaboratively with clients to decide which methods fit their needs, goals and preferences. She will discuss options and adjust the approach as the work evolves, so therapy develops in partnership with the person receiving it.

Online therapy with Paula is available by video call, phone, live chat or text-based messaging, offering flexibility for different schedules and comfort levels. These options make it easier to access support from home or while travelling, and allow clients to choose the format that best supports ongoing progress with their therapist.