Gillian McGowan , NCPS

Gillian McGowan is a counsellor who helps people dealing with relationship strain, low self-esteem, anxiety and life changes. She focuses on how childhood messages and family dynamics shape current beliefs and behaviours. Gillian works with individuals and offers a calm, non-judgemental presence to talk through difficult experiences.

Her practice covers a wide range of concerns including parenting stress, grief, trauma and intimacy-related issues. She also supports people facing divorce, infidelity, blended family challenges and communication problems. Gillian pays attention to everyday pressures as well as deeper wounds that affect how people relate to others and themselves.

Gillian uses a client-centred approach, which means she listens closely and follows what each person needs in the session. Sessions tend to be relaxed and paced to help people feel heard and understood before moving on to change. She aims to build a trusting space where people can notice patterns and try out new ways of thinking and behaving.

Her background includes eight years working as a counsellor and clinical supervisor within mental health services, following many years in related roles. She holds NCPS as a credential and is based in the United Kingdom. Sessions are offered in English and Gillian does not work with international clients.

People who want practical support for relationship issues, family tensions, self-belief or coping with major life shifts may find her style helpful. The focus is on clear listening, gentle challenge and helping each person find what works for them.

How client-centred work adapts to online therapy

Client-centred therapy places the person’s experience at the heart of sessions. The counsellor listens closely, reflects what she hears and follows the client’s pace. This approach helps with issues like self-esteem, relationship patterns, grief and the effects of childhood messages because it focuses on understanding each person’s story first.

Working this way online simply means the same listening and responsiveness happen through different channels. Gillian will work collaboratively to find the approach that fits best, discussing goals, preferences and how you like to communicate. Together you can decide whether to concentrate on feeling understood, looking at family narratives or building new communication habits.

Online formats include video calls, phone sessions, live chat and text-based messaging. Video is useful when you want face-to-face interaction and non-verbal cues. Phone sessions can be easier when bandwidth is limited or you prefer not to be on camera. Live chat or messaging suits quick check-ins, short reflections between sessions or people who find typed communication more comfortable. These options give flexibility so therapy can fit around work, caregiving and daily life while keeping focus on the work you want to do.