- ACT and CBT
- Grief and loss
- Anxiety and stress
About Gavin
Gavin Armstrong is a counsellor who uses a blend of evidence-informed approaches to support people through stressful and painful times. He works with people facing anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, addictions and issues related to LGBT identity. He aims to offer calm, respectful conversations that are tailored to each person's needs.
Gavin draws on several practical therapies to guide sessions. He uses Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help people notice thoughts without being overwhelmed by them, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy to identify patterns that keep problems going. He also brings client-centred listening so people feel heard and understood as they talk through difficult experiences.
He has four years of professional experience working in the United Kingdom. That work has included supporting people with relationship and family concerns, parenting strain, attachment and abandonment issues, and coping with life changes such as bereavement or illness. He also works with issues like body image, communication problems and anger.
Gavin aims to shape sessions around what matters most to each person. Conversations are practical and down-to-earth, with focus on small steps and clearer choices. He encourages people to set goals and try approaches between sessions so progress can be tracked.
Starting therapy can feel daunting, and Gavin tries to make the first steps as straightforward as possible. He offers an open, non-judgemental approach and adapts the pace to the person sitting across from him.
Gavin draws on several practical therapies to guide sessions. He uses Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help people notice thoughts without being overwhelmed by them, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy to identify patterns that keep problems going. He also brings client-centred listening so people feel heard and understood as they talk through difficult experiences.
He has four years of professional experience working in the United Kingdom. That work has included supporting people with relationship and family concerns, parenting strain, attachment and abandonment issues, and coping with life changes such as bereavement or illness. He also works with issues like body image, communication problems and anger.
Gavin aims to shape sessions around what matters most to each person. Conversations are practical and down-to-earth, with focus on small steps and clearer choices. He encourages people to set goals and try approaches between sessions so progress can be tracked.
Starting therapy can feel daunting, and Gavin tries to make the first steps as straightforward as possible. He offers an open, non-judgemental approach and adapts the pace to the person sitting across from him.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementCoping with life changes
Additional focus areas
AbandonmentAttachment issuesBlended family issuesBody imageCancerCaregiver issues and stressCo-morbidityCommitment issuesCommunication problemsControl issuesDomestic violenceFamily problemsFatherhood issuesForgivenessHIV / AIDSIsolation / lonelinessMen's issuesMidlife crisisVeteran and Armed Forces IssuesMulticultural concernsNarcissismPanic disorder and panic attacksPrejudice and discriminationSelf-harmSelf-loveSex addictionSexual dysfunctionSexualityWorkplace issues
Therapeutic approaches
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)Client-Centered TherapyCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT)Existential TherapyPsychodynamic TherapySolution-Focused TherapyTrauma-Focused Therapy
Experience
4+ years
Credentials
BACP · United Kingdom
Languages
English
How Gavin uses therapy approaches online
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy helps people notice thoughts and feelings without being driven by them. It focuses on identifying personal values and taking small, meaningful actions that align with those values. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy looks at the links between thoughts, feelings and behaviours and helps people test and change unhelpful patterns. Client-Centred Therapy prioritises listening and empathy so people can make sense of their experience in their own way.Finding the right approach is part of the work together. Gavin will discuss different methods and try to match techniques to your goals and preferences. This is a collaborative process where you and the therapist check what is working and adjust the plan as needed.
If you are considering online sessions, please confirm the exact session formats before booking. Online options can make it easier to fit therapy into everyday life, for example by reducing travel time or allowing shorter check-ins during a busy day. They can also help when quieter surroundings or lower bandwidth are needed. Registered or accredited professionals can explain practical arrangements and help choose a format that suits your schedule and needs.
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of problems does Gavin focus on?
He works with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, addictions and LGBT-related concerns, plus relationship and family difficulties.
What is his therapeutic style like?
His style combines practical therapies with empathic listening, focusing on clear steps, goal-setting and adapting the conversation to your needs.
How much clinical experience does he have?
He has four years of professional experience working with people in the United Kingdom.
What credentials does he hold and where is he based?
He is listed with the BACP and practices in the United Kingdom.
Which languages can sessions be offered in?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can people from other countries work with him?
He is not currently working with international clients.
How are sessions paid for and what do they cost?
Costs vary by location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription model that can be cancelled at any time.
How do I begin the process of working together?
Use the Start Therapy button, complete the short matching questionnaire, and then schedule sessions according to the therapist's availability.