Karen McClurkin, BACP, NCPS

Karen McClurkin is a counsellor who blends practical talking therapies to help people at midlife and through big life changes. She aims to create a non-judgemental space where clients can talk about present problems or issues rooted in the past. Karen has seven years of experience and holds BACP and NCPS credentials. Her approach is flexible and based on what each person needs. She draws on attachment-based and client-centred ideas to build a trusting relationship. Cognitive behavioural and mindfulness techniques are used to manage anxiety, sleep or mood symptoms in day-to-day life. Karen helps people address stress, anxiety and relationship concerns. She also supports those dealing with grief, addiction, anger and self-esteem struggles. Midlife challenges, coping with life changes and ADHD are listed among her focus areas. Alongside those concerns she works with issues such as body image, chronic illness and pregnancy loss, including fertility struggles. She can talk through separation, abandonment, codependency and recovery from domestic violence or substance use. Sessions aim to be practical and collaborative. Karen listens first, then helps set short-term goals and skills to practise between meetings. Many people find this mix useful for stabilising mood, improving sleep and clarifying next steps in their life.

How therapeutic approaches shape online work

Attachment-based work focuses on patterns in relationships and early connections. It helps people make sense of how past relationships affect current feelings and reactions in day-to-day life. Client-centred therapy centres the person's experience and aims to create an accepting space where someone can be heard and understood without judgement. Finding the best approach is part of the therapeutic process. The therapist will work collaboratively to match methods to a person's needs, goals and preferences. That means starting with listening, trying an approach, and adjusting as progress or priorities change. If you are considering online sessions, check the available formats before you book since the biography does not list them. Many people appreciate online work because it can fit around work, childcare and other commitments. It can make shorter check-ins easier, reduce travel time, and allow people to practice skills in their everyday setting. For those who prefer less reliance on video, options such as phone-based conversations can be useful for brief check-ins or when bandwidth is limited - confirm which formats this counsellor offers when you arrange your first session.