Directory entry

Alison McWhirr, BACP

Credentials: BACP
Experience: 10 years
Practising in: United Kingdom
Languages: English
Sessions: Online only
Client ages: Adults, 18 and over

Works with Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteem Depression ADHD

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Alison McWhirr helps people dealing with stress, anxiety, low self-esteem and depression. She also supports those coping with relationship worries, ADHD, addictions, grief and anger. Alison works from a belief that people know their own story and brings a steady, respectful presence to each conversation.

Her style is straightforward and warm. Sessions focus on listening first, then on practical steps a person can try between meetings. She encourages small, achievable changes and checks in on what is most useful for each person.

Background and approach

Alison uses Client-Centred Therapy, which means the conversation follows the client's priorities and pace. She draws on ten years of experience working with a wide range of concerns to guide the process without taking over it. The aim is to help people feel more able to manage daily challenges and make clearer choices.

She has a BACP credential - that is membership of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. Alison practises in the United Kingdom and offers sessions in English. Her approach suits people who want a respectful, person-focused way of talking through difficulties.

People can expect a calm, non-judgemental space to talk and to leave with practical ideas to try. Alison supports those navigating family problems, adoption and foster care issues, attachment concerns and the strains of caregiving, among other areas.

Client-centred support delivered online

Client-Centred Therapy places the person at the heart of the conversation. The therapist listens carefully, reflects what is said and follows the client's priorities so sessions move at a comfortable pace. This approach can help with stress, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship concerns and grief by making space for a person's own thoughts and feelings.

Alison's online practice uses the same client-centred principles, offering a calm, respectful setting where goals are decided together. Finding the right approach is part of the work - she will discuss options, check what feels helpful and adapt the way sessions run to match each person's needs and preferences.

Practical online formats include video calls for a face-to-face feel, phone sessions when bandwidth is limited, live chat for shorter check-ins, and text-based messaging for ongoing support between meetings. These options give flexibility for different routines, quieter surroundings, and varying comfort with being on camera, while keeping the focus on steady progress and useful, real-life steps.

What issues does Alison help with?

She supports people with stress, anxiety, relationship concerns, low self-esteem and depression, plus ADHD, addictions, grief and anger.

What is her therapeutic style like?

Her style is warm and straightforward, focusing on listening first and then finding practical steps that fit the person's life.

How much experience does Alison have?

Alison has ten years of professional experience working with a broad range of emotional and relational concerns.

What credentials and location are listed?

She holds BACP membership and practises in the United Kingdom.

In which languages are sessions offered?

Sessions are offered in English and international clients are not currently accepted.

Which session formats are available?

Sessions can be arranged as video calls, phone sessions, live chat or text-based messaging.

How is cost handled?

Cost varies with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be cancelled at any time.

What are the first steps to begin therapy?

Click the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, then schedule sessions according to the therapist's availability.

Areas of focus

What this therapist works with

Most often

Stress, Anxiety
Relationship issues
Self esteem

Also listed

Therapeutic approaches

Client-Centred Therapy

Experience: 10 years
Registered with: BACP
Languages: English

Contacting Alison

Alison takes enquiries through BetterHelp. You answer a few questions about what you are looking for, then arrange sessions if it seems like a fit. Browsing costs nothing and you are not committing to anything by reading this page.

Alison McWhirr, BACP

Background and approach

Client-centred support delivered online

Areas of focus

What this therapist works with

Others working with stress, anxiety