Richard Barnardo

I offer appointments Monday to Friday, between 8 am and 9 pm. Please email Richard@Barnardocounselling.com to check current availability.

I’m Richard, a BACP-accredited psychodynamic counsellor and registered Social Worker. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and relationship difficulties. My approach is about helping you understand yourself better and exploring why some things can feel so difficult to change.

I work primarily with Brief Psychodynamic Therapy. We begin by identifying what you would most like help with and keep this at the centre of our sessions. Together, we explore what happens when the problem arises: the feelings involved, how you respond and what happens as a result.

Sometimes, ways of coping that developed earlier in life can contribute to problems in the present. Looking at earlier experiences and relationships can help us understand these responses and consider what might be more helpful now.

I take an active part in sessions. I ask questions, share what I notice and help you make connections that can be difficult to see on your own. We may also notice something familiar happening between us, giving us an opportunity to explore it together as it happens.

The aim is to turn understanding into change: to recognise familiar reactions sooner and develop more choice in how you deal with feelings, approach relationships and treat yourself.

I bring 20 years’ professional experience across counselling, social care and third-sector services. My background includes senior and specialist roles in Child Protection, Youth Offending and Leaving Care, alongside safeguarding work in education and healthcare.

Much of this work has involved supporting people affected by difficult family relationships, abuse, neglect and loss. I’m used to working with complicated personal histories and sensitively exploring experiences that can be difficult to talk about. This background is an important part of what I bring to my counselling practice.

Sessions last 50 minutes and take place in person at my private practice in Islington, close to Arsenal station. We usually meet weekly at a regular time. I primarily offer shorter-term, focused therapy, although longer-term work is also possible. We will discuss what you hope to gain and review our progress together.

The fee is £70 per session. I also offer a limited number of reduced-fee spaces, so please feel free to ask.

I am a recognised provider with AXA Health, Aviva, Allianz, Vitality and WPA. Please check the terms of your policy to confirm whether your sessions are covered.

My therapy room is accessed by stairs. If health, mobility or other accessibility needs make attending difficult, I may be able to offer sessions in your home. Please contact me to discuss whether this would be suitable.

The first session is an opportunity for us to meet, explore what has brought you to therapy and consider how I might help. You do not need to prepare anything or know exactly where to begin; we can find a starting point together.

It also gives you a chance to get a sense of how I work and whether you feel comfortable talking with me. If, at the end of that session, you decide you do not wish to continue working with me, there is no charge. If you decide to continue, the introductory session is charged at my usual fee of £70.

My Labradoodle, Indie, is often with me in the therapy room. Some clients find her presence reassuring. If you would prefer sessions without her, just let me know.