James Bolton

I currently have availability on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays during the day. I occasionally have spaces open up on weekday evenings.

Maybe you're seeking support because life feels especially difficult at the moment. Perhaps you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or frustrated by finding yourself in the same patterns again and again. It might be that you feel disconnected, or simply have a sense that something isn't quite right.

There are parts of ourselves that we hide from other people, and sometimes even from ourselves. Together, we can approach those parts with curiosity rather than judgement and begin to understand how our experiences, relationships and ways of coping have shaped us.

I work with adults and young people aged 13 and over. My approach is integrative, which means I adapt the way I work to the individual rather than expecting everyone to fit one particular model of therapy.

I am a qualified psychotherapeutic counsellor and hold a Level 6 Postgraduate Diploma in Integrative Counselling, with clinical training undertaken within NHS services. I have particular experience working with neurodivergence, trauma, grief, anxiety, identity, relationships and significant life changes.

I bring genuine interest, thoughtful attention and a touch of humour when it feels right. I can gently challenge where helpful, while keeping the focus on what matters to you and moving at a pace that feels manageable.

Our sessions can be a place to explore who you are beneath the expectations, roles and patterns that may have shaped your life. Sometimes that means thinking about earlier experiences and relationships. At other times we might focus on what is happening now or the patterns you find yourself repeating.

I have 18 years' experience working with children and young people, including extensive experience with autistic people and those with ADHD, dyslexia and other forms of neurodivergence. I adapt the work to the individual rather than assuming there is one right way to communicate or engage with therapy.

This can be particularly important with teenagers. Some are ready to sit and talk for fifty minutes. Others may find that uncomfortable, especially at first. I have board games and quick card games available, which can take some pressure off conversation and help the relationship develop.

Where it feels appropriate, I can also incorporate storytelling and tabletop role-playing games such as Dungeons & Dragons. Creating characters and exploring fictional situations can offer a different way to think about relationships, identity, confidence, choices and difficult experiences.

I also have experience counselling people affected by sexual trauma, grief and bereavement, family change and relationship difficulties. I approach painful experiences carefully, with attention to trust, safety and pace.

I work with adults as well as young people, and you do not need a diagnosis or a clear idea of what you want from therapy before getting in touch.

I hold an Enhanced DBS certificate. Sessions are available in person in Woolwich or online. 

My space is wheelchair accessible, one minute from Woolwich Arsenal station and three minutes from free parking.

Get in touch and we can arrange an initial 30 minute phone call or online meeting to see whether we might be a good fit.