Paul Butlin

I’m Paul (he him), a counsellor and psychotherapist based in Manchester, working online with clients across the UK.​​

Why I might be the right therapist for you:

I work with people around issues of identity, relationships and belonging. Identity is universal, and feeling misunderstood, isolated or unsure of yourself is something many of us experience at different points in life. Therapy can offer a space to explore these experiences and make sense of what feels difficult.

I have particular experience working with LGBTQ+ clients, as well as people who feel different in other ways, including neurodiversity, gender identity and disability. Many come feeling worn down by anxiety, low mood, trauma, or the effort of navigating expectations. If you have felt this way, you are not alone.

My work is shaped by both lived and professional experience. As a gay man who also lives with a disability, I understand how being seen as different can affect self-worth and belonging. It's what brought me to this work.

What you can expect:

• A safe, accepting space to explore your feelings
• Person-centred therapy at your pace
• Support with self-esteem, self-compassion and anxiety
• Sessions that are thoughtful, honest and warm (with room for a laugh too).

How it works:

Get in touch here or via my website

We can arrange a free 15-minute introductory chat over Zoom, where we get to know each other, and I answer any questions you may have. Think of it as a vibe check.

If you'd like to proceed, we can arrange our first session

15-minute introductory chat:

If you are unsure about booking a full session, I offer a free 15-minute introductory call. This is a chance to briefly meet, ask questions, and get a sense of whether we might be a good fit. Think of it as a vibe check.

What you can expect in your first session:

Your first session is a chance to get a feel for whether this space and this way of working suits you. There is no expectation to share everything or to start with the hardest parts.

​We will talk about what has brought you here, what you are hoping for, and any questions or concerns you might have about therapy itself. We can take things slowly and focus on what feels manageable.

​It is very common to feel unsure or nervous at first. You do not need to get it right or have the words ready. You just need to come as you are.

Booking your first session:

If you would like to book a first session, you can do so using the contact form on this page. Once you get in touch, I will respond to arrange next steps and answer any practical questions you may have.