James Paton

I currently offer sessions within the hours of 09:00-18:00 on Wednesdays.

I am a Person-Centred Experiential therapist working with adults on a one-to-one basis. My practice is grounded in the core conditions described by Carl Rogers and shaped by a deep belief that the therapeutic relationship is the primary agent of change. I aim to offer a warm, kind and genuine space where clients feel safe enough to explore their inner world and experience meaningful growth.

While I work in a non-directive, person-centred way, I hold a strong interest in how attachment and early developmental experiences inform our present relationships and patterns. I am influenced by the relational and existential thinking of Irvin Yalom, alongside contemporary attachment and neuroscience perspectives, including the work of Sue Gerhardt. This informs my trauma-aware approach and my sensitivity to how past experiences can live in both mind and body.

I offer open-ended therapy shaped by client need. We contract collaboratively in our first session and agree together how we would like to review and reflect on the work. Clients often describe me as refreshingly honest while feeling genuinely cared for and supported. I believe challenge is most effective when rooted in trust, empathy and authenticity.

I work in a trauma-informed way and integrate psychoeducation where helpful, guided by what clients feel would support them. This may include somatic awareness or other practical tools, always within a relational framework.

I am committed to anti-oppressive and inclusive practice. As a queer, neurodivergent therapist, I recognise how lived experience can shape identity and belonging, and I value creating a space where difference is welcomed and respected.

I currently offer online sessions.

The first session is an opportunity for us to consider whether we are the right fit to work together. It is structured slightly differently from ongoing therapy, with a greater focus on assessment, contracting and clarifying expectations.

The assessment is conducted verbally within the session. We will explore what has brought you to therapy, your current circumstances and what you hope for from the work. While this is not a full therapeutic intervention session, there will naturally be space to begin discussing your experiences. Part of this process involves considering whether your needs align with the service I am able to offer. If I believe a different type of support would be more appropriate, I will discuss this openly and, where possible, support you with an appropriate referral.

We will explicitly discuss confidentiality, risk, safeguarding, cancellations, boundaries and the practical framework of therapy. Following the session, I will send a written contract outlining what has been agreed so that the boundaries and expectations are clear and available for you to review.

The first session also provides space for you to ask questions and decide whether you feel comfortable working with me. We will confirm practical arrangements such as session frequency, whether you are seeking short or longer-term work, review points and payment.

Initial sessions are 1 hour and are not charged. Ongoing sessions are typically an hour, but this can be flexible based on your need and charged at £70 per hour.