• Claire Woodward, BSc (Hons), Dip. Couns, MBACP
  • Claire Woodward, BSc (Hons), Dip. Couns, MBACP


Counselling & Psychotherapy


Providing a compassionate space tailored to you, supporting you through life’s challenges and helping you move toward positive change

Whether it’s relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, or support with ADHD and neurodiversity, we’ll focus on what matters most to you and work toward lasting progress
Portrait Image of Claire Woodward Therapist Chiswick W4
"Since starting therapy with Claire, I’ve discovered an inner strength I didn’t realise I had. It’s genuinely changed how I handle things in my life."
Victoria

What is Therapy?

Therapy is more than a conversation -
it’s a journey of self‑discovery, offering space to explore, reflect and grow
It’s a chance to pause, breathe, and explore who you are while making sense of life’s complexities with someone who listens with care and understanding.

Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, lost in sadness, struggling with relationships, or carrying the weight of past experiences, therapy offers a unique opportunity to find clarity, strengthen resilience,
and cultivate hope for the future
Life can often feel uncertain, leaving us unsure of how to move forward. At times, we may feel disconnected from the life we want or held back by past trauma, grief, or the weight of responsibilities. These challenges can cloud our sense of self and make it difficult to see a way ahead.

Therapy isn’t just for moments of crisis - it’s also a chance for growth, self-reflection, and clarity. Many people seek therapy to explore their thoughts, understand their emotions, or share their experiences with someone who listens without judgement.

If you’re looking for a safe and confidential space to explore your emotions and experiences, my practice provides exactly that. Whether you choose the tranquillity of my Chiswick garden practice or the flexibility of online sessions, I offer a respectful, empathic, and non-judgemental environment where we can work together to navigate life’s challenges.
"Seeing Claire each week is something I look forward to. Her sessions give me the emotional support to make sense of things, even when life feels chaotic. She has a professional yet heartfelt way of working that makes me feel completely understood."
Charlie

Me & My Approach

I’m a qualified and highly experienced Counsellor and Psychotherapist, offering therapy to individuals and couples on a short, medium or long-term basis.
My journey into counselling and psychotherapy stems from a long-standing passion for supporting personal growth and well-being. With a background in health and wellness, I’ve developed a deep respect for each person’s individuality and the importance of tailoring support to their unique needs - an ethos that continues to guide my work today.

I believe therapy should be as unique as the person it supports. In our work together, you’ll find a compassionate, non-judgemental space to explore your challenges, deepen your self-awareness, and uncover new possibilities. My goal is to help you navigate life’s complexities, build resilience, and move forward in a way that feels authentic and true to you.

As an MBACP-registered therapist, I am committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and ethical practice. This ensures that our work together is safe, confidential, and grounded in trust. My theoretical approach is grounded in the principles of person-centred and pluralistic therapy, offering a collaborative and flexible way of working. Each session is tailored to what feels most meaningful for you, whether addressing immediate challenges or exploring a deeper understanding of yourself. My aim is to provide a space where you feel truly heard, valued, and supported.

How I offer therapy has been inspired by leading thinkers in the fields of psychology and human development. Carl Rogers’ person-centred therapy informs my focus on creating a warm, empathic environment for growth, while Mick Cooper’s pluralistic approach reinforces my belief in working collaboratively to find what works best for you. I also draw on Dr. Gabor Maté’s insights into trauma and the mind-body connection, Dr. Stephen Porges’ Polyvagal Theory to foster safety and connection, Dr. Richard Schwartz’s Internal Family Systems (IFS) for understanding and caring for the inner parts of ourselves, and Brené Brown’s research on vulnerability and shame, which inspires my commitment to creating a space where courage, connection, and authenticity can flourish.

I hold a First-Class Honours degree in Pluralistic Person-Centred Counselling (Advanced Practitioner) from Middlesex University, a Diploma in Pluralistic Person-Centred Counselling from The Metanoia Institute and an Advanced Post-Diploma Certificate in Couples Therapy.

I regularly engage in continued professional development as part of my commitment to personal and professional growth. This has included specialised training in areas such as couples therapy, working with neurodiversity, bereavement and loss, addictions, attachment styles, boarding school syndrome, working with the inner critic, trauma, disordered eating, and more.

My career began in the corporate world, giving me valuable insight into the stresses and demands of business life. In 2008, I transitioned into the health and wellness industry, where I discovered my passion for helping individuals achieve their fullest potential.

This journey ultimately inspired me to pursue counselling and psychotherapy, a field I embraced in 2018. Since then, I have dedicated myself to supporting others through a compassionate, person-centred, pluralistic approach, continually deepening my knowledge and skills through specialised training and professional development.
"Working with Claire has changed how I see things. Her honest and insightful approach helped me cut through the confusion and make sense of my childhood experiences. I now feel stronger and finally understand that what happened to me wasn’t my fault"
Mary

Minimalist line drawing of one-to-one therapy session showing therapist and client seated facing each other in professional setting
Individual therapy offers a space dedicated entirely to you
A safe and supportive space to explore your thoughts, process emotions, and make sense of your experiences.

Life can feel overwhelming at times. Whether you’re facing specific challenges, feeling stuck, or seeking a deeper understanding of yourself, individual therapy provides a space entirely for you.

Here, you’ll find a supportive environment to untangle your thoughts, process emotions, and make sense of your experiences. It’s an opportunity to pause, reflect, and gain clarity amidst life’s complexities.

Each session is tailored to your unique needs, helping you reconnect with what truly matters, explore fresh perspectives, and take steps toward positive and lasting change.

Held in the calming surroundings of my garden practice in Chiswick, where we can work together face-to-face in a tranquil and private setting.

A flexible option that brings therapy to you, allowing us to connect securely and effectively from wherever you feel most comfortable.
 Together, we’ll create a safe and empathetic space to help you reflect, build resilience, and move towards clarity and meaningful change.
couples-therapy-counseling-line-art-illustration-relationship-support
Every relationship is a meeting of two unique individuals, each shaped by their own experiences, upbringing, and perspectives.
It’s natural for challenges to arise, especially when combined with the pressures of daily life.

Couples therapy provides a supportive space to navigate these difficulties together, fostering deeper understanding, connection, and growth.

In our sessions, both you and your partner will have the chance to speak openly and feel truly heard. Together, we’ll work on recognising and respecting each other’s differences, improving communication, and resolving conflicts in constructive ways.

Whether you’re looking to strengthen your bond, rebuild trust, or explore a new direction, couples therapy can help you find a path that feels right for both of you.

These are held in the peaceful surroundings of my tranquil garden practice in Chiswick, providing a calm and private space for our work together.

are flexible and accessible, allowing you to connect from the comfort of your own home while still receiving the same supportive and tailored experience.

Therapist conducting an online video therapy session with client using laptop computer
Life’s demands don’t always make it easy to attend in‑person therapy.
Online therapy offers a flexible and convenient alternative, making it easier to prioritise your well-being without the need to travel.

Whether you’re seeking individual support or working to strengthen your relationship as a couple, online therapy provides the same personalised, confidential space - accessible from wherever you feel most comfortable.


For individual therapy, online sessions create a safe environment to untangle your thoughts, process emotions, and explore challenges, all from the comfort of your own space. It’s a flexible option that fits around your life, whether you’re balancing work, family, or other commitments.

For couples therapy, online sessions allow you and your partner to connect from different locations or enjoy the convenience of a home setting. It provides a neutral and deeply supportive space to explore your relationship, improve communication, and work through challenges together.

Online therapy provides professional support using a secure and easy-to-use platform. It offers the opportunity to work towards clarity, connection, and meaningful change, no matter where you are.

What I can help with:

  • Anxiety
  • Addiction
  • Marital problems
  • Depression
  • Attachment/Separation and Loss
  • Alcohol/Substance dependence
  • Bereavement
  • Anger management
  • Neurodiversity
  • Disordered eating
  • Employment issues
  • Existential thoughts
  • Flash backs
  • Agoraphobia
  • Gender dysphoria
  • Lack of sleep
  • Low mood
  • Communication
  • ADHD
  • Low self-esteem
  • Stress
  • Autism/ ASD
  • Relationship problems
  • Panic attacks
  • Personal development
  • Self-Harm
  • Dyslexia
  • OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder)
  • Dyspraxia
  • Personality disorders
  • Post-natal depression
  • PTSD/Trauma
  • Self-identity
  • Sexual orientation
  • Shame and Guilt
  • Performance Pressure

Our Sessions: A Space for You

In our sessions, you’ll find a supportive and understanding space where your thoughts and feelings are genuinely heard, respected, and understood.
I invite you to take the first step with a complimentary 20-minute online session, offering a chance to connect and explore how we might work together
Whatever you bring to our sessions, we will work together to navigate and make sense of the complexities of your world. Together, we’ll create a space for understanding, healing, and growth, focusing on building resilience, fostering self-awareness, and shaping a life that feels more fulfilling and true to who you are.

The focus of our sessions will be on fostering understanding, building resilience, and creating a life that feels more fulfilling and aligned with your authentic self.
My offer of an initial complementary 20-minute online consultation allows us to explore your reasons for seeking therapy and assess whether we can build a meaningful therapeutic relationship. Together, we’ll identify your goals and consider what you hope to achieve through our work.
Whether seeking clarity, developing coping strategies, fostering personal growth, or navigating life’s challenges, this dedicated space allows us to understand your needs and set the foundation for a supportive and effective therapeutic journey.

Therapy is a collaborative journey, and I believe in building a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship where you play an active role in shaping the goals and direction of our work. Together, we’ll create a space that honours the uniqueness of your experiences, offering support and guidance as you navigate the path to self-discovery, acceptance, and meaningful change.

Your therapy experience will evolve as your needs and preferences change. My approach is flexible and responsive, ensuring our sessions remain relevant, supportive, and focused on what matters most to you. Whether you’re seeking to:

  • Process emotional challenges such as anxiety or depression

  • Heal from the impacts of trauma, neglect, or abuse

  • Navigate relationship issues or family dynamics

  • Manage workplace stress or life transitions

  • Cope with bereavement and loss

As a registered and experienced member of the BACP, I am deeply committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and ethical practice. I aim to create an environment where you feel fully supported, understood, and empowered - whether working through difficulties, seeking personal growth, or both.

Based in the heart of Chiswick, I offer therapy designed to fit into your life. You can choose between in-person, online, or phone sessions, allowing you to select the most comfortable and convenient format. Each option provides a confidential, non-judgemental, and supportive space where you can feel safe to share and explore what's most important to you.

"Working with Claire helped me navigate a difficult relationship. Through our sessions, I could make sense of the complicated emotions and patterns I was experiencing. Now, I feel more confident in understanding and accepting myself, which has allowed me to express my needs more clearly in my relationships."
Sarah

Price

The prices listed are for 50-minute sessions.
I also offer 75 or 90-minute sessions for those seeking extended support..

Please contact me for a free introductory consultation
This free consultation offers a chance to discuss the challenges you’re facing and explore what’s bringing you to therapy. It’s also an opportunity to experience how it feels to work with me and determine if my approach aligns with your journey towards greater well-being.

Individual Therapy
Initial consultation
Online or phone
In person
Complimentary
from £70
from £75
Couples Therapy
Initial consultation
Online or phone
In person
Complimentary
from £95
from £100

Payment must be made 24 hours before the session.

If you need to cancel, please provide at least 48 hours' notice to avoid being charged at the full session rate.
This policy ensures that my services are available to all clients.

I offer a discretionary concession (a maximum of six sessions) for those on a low income - please contact me for information.

FAQs

What therapy do I offer?

I offer a compassionate, relational approach that values your autonomy and self-determination. Guided by a pluralistic framework, my therapy is flexible and tailored to your unique needs. This means we can draw from various therapeutic modalities to find what works best for you.
Together, we’ll collaborate to identify your preferences and goals, shaping an approach that supports your specific circumstances and helps you navigate life’s challenges in a meaningful way.

Your initial consultation

Your initial consultation is a complimentary 20-minute session, offering an opportunity for us to connect and explore your reasons for seeking therapy. During this time, I will ask questions to better understand your current challenges and what has brought you to this point. It’s also a chance for you to see if working together feels like the right fit for you.

How many sessions will I need?

The number of sessions needed varies for each person. Some clients notice positive changes after just a few sessions, while others may benefit from ongoing therapy over several months or longer. We’ll regularly review our work together, assessing your progress and goals to ensure your therapy continues to meet your needs. This approach allows you to reflect and decide whether to continue, tailoring the journey to suit your unique circumstances and aspirations.

Are the sessions confidential?

As a Member of the BACP, I offer confidential sessions in accordance with the BACP’s Ethical Framework for Counselling Professions:

BACP Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions
"I was hesitant about starting therapy - but choosing to work with Claire turned out to be the right decision. Her unique approach has helped me gain clarity and a fresh perspective."
Kirsty

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  • 2024 Claire Woodward

Thank you

Thank you for your enquiry.

I endeavour to respond to any website messages within 6 hours during the working week.

Your message is important to me, so if your query is more urgent please don't hesitate to e-mail me directly at the address below.
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My location

My garden therapy room is located in

Chiswick, London, W4

If you are coming by car, please let me know and I can try to advise upon the best places you could park.

Book a Consultation

I welcome you to a complimentary 30-minute online session. This is an opportunity to explore the challenges you're facing the reasons you're considering therapy. It’s also a way for you to experience how therapy feels with me and decide if it aligns with your journey toward greater well-being.
Please accept my privacy policy*