Michael Wilkes-Spellman, NCPS

Michael Wilkes-Spellman is a counsellor with 13 years of experience who helps people facing stress, anxiety, relationship and intimacy-related issues, grief, depression and trauma. He is an NCPS credential holder and offers appointments on weekday evenings. Michael works part time and aims to make sessions practical and understandable for people needing support with life changes and difficult emotions.

He uses an integrated style that adapts to each person. Much of his work draws on client-centred ideas, which means he listens closely and follows what each person brings. He also uses cognitive behavioural techniques to help people spot and change unhelpful thinking and behaviour patterns.

In practice he focuses on what is happening right now and on clear steps people can use between sessions. That might include simple experiments, noticing thoughts and patterns, or short exercises to ease distress. Michael also brings mindful awareness into sessions to help with emotional regulation and grounding.

Michael has practised since completing his counselling training in 2011 and continues to update his skills in wellbeing topics. He supports adults and older adults through life transitions such as divorce, career change, bereavement and shifts in relationships.

People who choose to work with him can expect a calm, direct style and a focus on small, manageable changes. He encourages practical goals and regular review so progress is clear and adaptable to each person’s needs.

How his approaches translate to online work

Michael commonly uses client-centred work and cognitive behavioural therapy in sessions. Client-centred therapy focuses on listening, clarity and following what the person brings, which helps people feel heard and understood. Cognitive behavioural therapy looks at links between thoughts, feelings and actions and uses short exercises to change patterns that keep problems going.

Finding the right approach tends to be collaborative. The therapist will discuss goals and preferences and adapt methods as therapy progresses. Together they decide whether to emphasise listening, practical experiments, or mindful practices to suit the issue and the person’s pace.

The original biography does not list specific online session formats, so confirm available options before booking. In general, online work can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy week, allow evening appointments to suit working schedules, and reduce travel time. It can also allow for shorter check-ins when needed or for sessions that do not require being on camera.