Directory entry

Stephen Mclaughlin, BACP

Credentials: BACP
Experience: 5 years
Practising in: United Kingdom
Languages: English
Sessions: Online only
Client ages: Adults, 18 and over

Works with Stress, Anxiety LGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuse Depression

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Stephen Mclaughlin is a psychotherapeutic counsellor who helps people facing stress, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, trauma and LGBT-related concerns. He holds a Postgraduate Diploma and an Advanced Diploma in Transactional Analysis and has five years in independent practice. Stephen aims to create a calm, non-judging space where people can talk about painful thoughts and feelings.

He listens for the stories people tell about themselves and the patterns that keep them stuck.

Background and approach

Sessions are practical and conversational. Stephen helps people notice how past experiences shape present reactions and supports small, doable changes that make daily life easier. People come to him feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to express emotion.

He works with issues such as panic, self-harm, grief, attachment and control struggles, and problems connected to sexuality and identity. Stephen also supports those coping with autism and Asperger syndrome related challenges. Work typically explores personal history, recurring patterns and current relationships.

The aim is clearer self-understanding and better emotional regulation rather than quick fixes. Stephen offers a steady presence while helping clients try new ways of relating to themselves and others. Sessions have a calm, reflective tone and are tailored to what each person wants to change.

He uses straightforward language and practical steps so people can apply what they learn between meetings.

Approaches that help online and in conversation

Stephen uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques that focus on life stories and present patterns. Transactional Analysis looks at recurring roles and scripts people repeat in relationships and everyday life; it helps with patterns of control, abandonment fears and relationship strain. Person-centred work puts the person’s experience at the centre and creates a non-judging space for exploring feelings, which can help with depression, shame and difficulties expressing emotion.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. Stephen will collaborate with clients to decide which methods fit their goals and preferences. That shared decision means therapy can change over time as needs shift and new issues come up.

Online sessions are offered by video call, phone, live chat or text messaging to give flexible access. Video calls allow face-to-face conversation when visual cues matter. Phone sessions use less bandwidth and can be easier during a busy day. Live chat or messaging suits short check-ins, ongoing support between sessions or when typing feels more comfortable. These options make it easier to fit therapy into work, family life and other commitments.

What issues can Stephen help with?

Stephen supports people with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma and LGBT-related concerns. He also works on relationship problems, panic, self-harm, and attachment or abandonment issues.

What is his therapeutic style like?

Sessions are calm and conversational with emphasis on listening to the stories people tell about themselves. He helps clients identify patterns and try practical changes rather than offering quick fixes.

How much experience does he have?

He has worked in independent practice for five years supporting people with a range of emotional and relational difficulties.

What are his credentials and where is he based?

He holds a Postgraduate Diploma and an Advanced Diploma in Transactional Analysis and is accredited with the BACP. He practices in the United Kingdom.

Which languages are sessions offered in?

Sessions are offered in English.

What session formats are available?

He offers video calls, phone sessions, live chat and text-based messaging to suit different needs and schedules.

How are sessions paid for?

Cost varies with location and therapist availability and sessions run via a subscription model that can be cancelled at any time.

How do I begin working with him?

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

Areas of focus

What this therapist works with

Most often

Stress, Anxiety
LGBT
Relationship issues

Also listed

Experience: 5 years
Registered with: BACP
Languages: English

Contacting Stephen

Stephen 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.

Stephen Mclaughlin, BACP

Background and approach

Approaches that help online and in conversation

Areas of focus

What this therapist works with

Others working with stress, anxiety