Therapy is a journey towards understanding ourselves, a dedicated space to confront and manage complex emotions, learn to cope with stress, improve interpersonal relationships, and address personal challenges such as depression, anxiety, or the impact of trauma.

Life's path often presents us with uncertainty, leading to moments where the way forward may seem unclear. It is not uncommon to feel disconnected from the life we envision for ourselves or find ourselves held back by past traumas, grief, or the burdens of responsibility.

Such challenges can cloud our sense of identity and obscure the direction we wish to take.
However, you don't have to be in crisis to have therapy, many people choose therapy for personal development or to talk things over with someone who will listen.

Should you seek a confidential environment to explore your thoughts and emotions, my practice provides that space. With the flexibility of in person and online sessions, I offer a respectful, non-judgmental, and empathic environment to share and discuss your thoughts, feelings or concerns with confidentiality and understanding.

Claire's sessions are the highlight of my week… they not only give me emotional support but where I can always make sense of what’s happening amidst the chaos of life. Her professional and heartfelt approach creates an environment where I feel genuinely accepted and understood…

Charlie, 41

About me

With a deep respect for each person’s uniqueness, I provide a warm and empathic environment that invites clients to feel at ease and supported from the very first session. An approach which paves the way toward personal growth and healing.

Image of Claire Woodward Therapist Chiswick W4 Standing by a Tree

I am a qualified and highly skilled MBACP counsellor and psychotherapist and hold a first-class honours degree in pluralistic person-centred counselling and psychotherapy. My extensive 15-year background within the health and wellness industry has not only enriched my practice and how I work, but it also deepens the commitment I have for providing therapy that respects and values each person’s individuality.

My knowledge and range of skills enable me to offer a variety of ways of working, personalising the therapy to suit and support you in discovering your own inner resources. I base my approach on the values of person-centred and pluralistic therapy and, by adopting this way of working, means I draw from an extensive range of theories and practices. This collaborative approach not only celebrates your uniqueness and individuality but is also customised to address and meet your specific needs, ensuring our journey together is as distinctive as your own life story.

Qualifications

I hold a First-Class Honours degree in Pluralistic Person-Centred Counselling (Advanced Practitioner) from Middlesex University, London, complemented by a Diploma in Pluralistic Person-Centred Counselling from The Metanoia Institute, London. Committed to personal and professional development I regularly undertake continued professional development training. This includes a wide range of subjects including bereavement and loss, working with addictions, attachment styles, boarding school syndrome, working with the inner critic and parts of self, trauma, disordered eating and more.

Career

My career began in the corporate world, which provided me with the unique perspective of the stresses and demands of corporate life. In 2008 my path shifted to the health and wellness industry, where I discovered my true passion for helping individuals realise their fullest potential. This inspiration led me to embrace the field of counselling and psychotherapy in 2018, marking the beginning of a fulfilling new chapter in my professional life.

Therapy with Claire has shifted my perspective. Her candid and insightful approach cut through the confusion, helping me to understand and come to terms with my childhood experiences. I’m now stronger and can understand that I’m not to blame for the past…

Mary, 68

I offer confidential short and long-term counselling, available in various formats including in-person, online and telephone.

What I can help with:

Addiction
Agoraphobia
Alcohol/Substance dependence
Anxiety
Anger management
Attachment/Separation and Loss
Bereavement
Depression
Disordered eating
Employment issues
Existential thoughts
Flash backs
Gender dysphoria
Lack of sleep
Low mood
Low self-esteem
Neurodiversity
Learning difficulties

Autism/ ASD
Attention Deficit (Hyperactivity) Disorder / ADHD
Dyslexia
Dyspraxia
OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder)
Panic attacks
Personality disorders
Personal development
Post-natal depression
PTSD/Trauma
Relationship problems
Self-Harm
Self-identity
Sexual orientation
Shame and Guilt
Stress

Our sessions

In our sessions, you will discover a safe and empathic space where your voice is not just heard, but truly valued and understood.

I advocate for a therapeutic alliance where you are an active participant in shaping the goals and direction of the therapy and my aim is to support your path to self-discovery and healing in a way that resonates with the individuality of your experiences.

Working collaboratively, I will adapt to your evolving needs and preferences. Whether you’re coping with emotional challenges, anxiety or depression, the impacts of trauma, relationship issues, family dynamics, workplace stress, life transitions, bereavement, or the effects of neglect and abuse, my practice offers a supportive and adaptive therapeutic partnership. Together, we’ll navigate the complexities of your world, working towards understanding, resilience, and a more fulfilling life.

Based in the heart of Chiswick, my private practice embraces a variety of therapeutic approaches including in-person, online and telephone therapy, ensuring accessibility and comfort for all clients. Each mode of therapy provides a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental space. Committed to the highest standards of professionalism and ethical practice, as endorsed by the BACP, my goal is to create an environment where you can feel completely understood and supported in your journey towards healing, self-discovery and personal growth.

I welcome you to begin your journey with an initial complimentary online session (30 minutes).

This initial consultation offers us an opportunity to explore your reasons for seeking therapy, assess our potential for a meaningful therapeutic alliance and identify your goals. It is a dedicated space for us to look at what you hope to achieve through our sessions together, whether its finding clarity, developing coping strategies, enhancing personal growth or navigating life’s challenges.

Working together with Claire helped me get through a challenging relationship. Our sessions helped me make sense of some of the complex feelings and patterns I was experiencing. Today, I have a greater understanding and acceptance of myself which gives me the confidence to communicate what I need from my relationships...

Sarah, 48

Price

All sessions are 50 minutes, unless otherwise agreed

I welcome you to an initial complimentary online session (30 minutes).

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.

Initial consultation

Online or phone

In person

Complimentary

from £70

from £80

I also offer a discretionary concession (max. 6 sessions) for those on a low income - please contact me for further information.

Payment via BACS before the session.

Cancellation with less than 48 hours’ notice is chargeable at the full session rate.

FAQs

What therapy do I offer?

I provide a compassionate and relational non-directive approach that values your autonomy and self-determination. This is a pluralistic approach that offers flexibility to integrate techniques and strategies from various therapeutic modalities, as required. Together we will work collaboratively to identify your unique preferences, helping us determine the most suitable approach for your specific situation and goals.

Your initial consultation

Your initial consultation will be a complimentary 30 minute session. During this time, I will ask questions to better understand what you’re currently facing and what has led you to seek therapy. This initial consultation is a chance for you to explore whether counselling with me as your therapist feels like the right fit.

How many sessions will I need?

The answer varies greatly from person to person. Some clients find relief from what might be troubling them after just a few sessions, while others may benefit from longer-term therapy spanning several months, or years. Regular reviews of our work together, including assessing and adapting your goals, will offer you a chance to reflect and decide whether you wish to continue with further sessions. This process ensures that your therapy journey is tailored to your unique needs and progress.

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 had reservations about leaving my previous therapist but choosing Claire's practice turned out to be the right decision. Her unique approach has brought clearer thinking and a fresh perspective to my journey. Now, I meet with Claire every four weeks for valuable check-ins and to process what's most important in my life.

Jess, 29

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