Therapy for Anxiety in Chester, Wirral & Online

Counselling For Anxiety

Anxiety is something we all experience and a little bit in our lives can be beneficial, but when it starts to impact us in a way that doesn't feel comfortable, it might be time to reach out and get some support.

Anxiety when left to its own devices can get so out of control that instead of feeling like it is a healthy part of us, it dominates our lives, from where we go, what we do, who we see, how we see ourselves and generally leaves us not being able to live life how we would like to.

Working with a therapist experienced in anxiety can help you better understand your triggers and responses.

A white and grey cat hiding under a blanket

What is Anxiety?

Anxiety is a natural response to stress, danger, or uncertainty. It often involves feelings of worry, fear, or unease about a situation or event.

These feelings can be accompanied by physical symptoms such as a racing heart, sweating, or restlessness.

While occasional anxiety is a normal part of life, it can become a problem when it feels excessive, lasts for a long time, or interferes with your daily life.

Signs You May Benefit From Therapy

Since the pandemic, anxiety has exploded and so many people are suffering. If you regularly experience any of the following symptoms, you may be wondering, Do I have anxiety? 

  • Persistent worry or fear 

  • Physical symptoms such as sweating, a racing heart, or stomach aches 

  • Difficulty concentrating or sleeping 

  • Avoidance of certain situations or places 

  • Feeling overwhelmed or out of control 

  • Needing the toilet more or less often 

  • Stomach ache or other aches and pains 

If you regularly experience any of these symptoms - these are all signs that counselling for anxiety might benefit you.

An anxious dog hiding under a blanket

How Counselling For Anxiety Works

Studies show that the most effective way to treat anxiety is through a combination of counselling or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and, in some cases, medication.

CBT for anxiety is a proven method that helps you identify and change negative thought patterns, giving you practical tools to manage your symptoms. 

While some people choose to use medication, others prefer to start with counselling to see how far they can progress without it.

Counselling provides a way to explore the root causes of your anxiety and develop long-term strategies to manage it. Many people find that therapy alone can help them feel more in control and better equipped to handle their anxiety. 

CBT can also provide tools you can use daily to feel more comfortable and confident in managing your symptoms. Anxiety and stress management therapy can help you develop practical techniques to handle life’s challenges more effectively. 

  • Counselling for social anxiety can help you feel more confident in social situations and reduce feelings of isolation.  

  • If you experience sudden episodes of intense fear, counselling for panic attacks can help you understand and manage the triggers that lead to these overwhelming moments. 

  • Therapy for Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) can help address persistent worry and reduce its impact on your overall wellbeing. 

  • Counselling for OCD can help you manage intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviours, providing tools to regain control and improve your quality of life. 

How Counselling for Anxiety can Help

Counselling for anxiety offers a range of benefits, including: 

  • Understanding Your Anxiety: Counselling helps you uncover the underlying causes of your anxiety, whether they stem from past experiences, current stressors, or a combination of factors. If you're curious about what causes anxiety, this page provides a deeper understanding of the potential triggers. 

  • Developing Coping Strategies: I can teach you practical techniques to manage anxiety symptoms, such as breathing exercises, mindfulness, and relaxation methods. 

  • Improving Daily Life: By addressing anxiety, you can regain control over your life, improve relationships, and feel more confident. 

For those who prefer flexibility, online counselling for anxiety is a convenient and effective option. Counselling provides valuable support with anxiety, helping you regain control over your life. 

Anxiety counselling for teenagers provides a safe space for young people to explore their feelings and build resilience. Young people often experience anxiety differently, and tailored approaches can help them develop coping skills early in life. 

Why Choose Me As Your Counsellor? 

I have many years of experience helping people with anxiety and related issues. During our sessions I provide a safe and confidential space so that you are comfortable to work towards the changes you would like to make. 

I am an Accredited Member of BACP (No. 380481), which stands for British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. This means that I have undergone rigorous assessment and evaluation to meet the BACP's strict standards for professional practice, so you can rest assured that you are choosing a qualified and ethical counsellor.

I understand how overwhelming it can feel to take that first step toward getting help. My approach is warm, supportive, and tailored to your unique needs.

Counselling and Therapy for Anxiety in Chester and Heswall 

If you’re searching for therapy near you to help with anxiety, I offer in-person therapy sessions in Chester, Heswall and Online Counselling Sessions across the UK and Europe, so you can choose what feels most comfortable for you. The choice is always yours. 

 Frequently Asked Questions

  • Counselling is a talking therapy that can go a long way in helping people come to terms with problems they are facing. The sessions give you time to talk about anything that is going on for you in a safe and confidential way.  

    This might be because you want to change things, there might be something you are struggling to come to terms with - whatever the reason counselling could well be the answer for you. 

    By talking about the things that are going on for you, you will be able to get a better understanding of your thoughts and feelings, while at the same time I will help empower you to identify new solutions, allowing you to facilitate change and have the life you would like/deserve.

  • I work with young people aged 16+ and adults.

  • I provide face-to-face counselling in Chester and Heswall. I also provide Online Therapy.

  • Yes, I provide Online Counselling Sessions via Zoom, or sessions by phone.

  • Yes, I am an Accredited Member of BACP (No. 380481), which stands for British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. This means that I have undergone rigorous assessment and evaluation to meet the BACP's strict standards for professional practice, so you can rest assured that you are choosing a qualified and ethical counsellor. 

  • I have a special interest and further training in: 

    Anxiety

    Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

    All forms of historic child abuse and trauma including physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional and psychological abuse, neglect 

    Emotional Eating

    PTSD

    I also have experience of helping people with: 

    Anger management 

    Attachment issues 

    Bereavement and grief, including pet bereavement 

    Bullying (School and workplace) 

    Depression 

    Gender identity 

    Family relationships 

    Self-harm 

    Self-esteem tress 

    Suicidal thoughts 

    Trauma 

    Additionally, I am a Rewind Practitioner which means that I have been trained to use the Rewind Technique to treat trauma and phobias. 

    I am also a Survivor to Thriver Practitioner which means that I can help individuals who have experienced trauma to move beyond simply ‘surviving’. 

    In my time as a counsellor, I have worked with so many different issues.

    Whatever it is, please just reach out so I can give you the support you deserve. Find out more about my experience and qualifications. 

  • I provide a confidential and safe space so that you are comfortable to work towards the changes you would like to make. 

    Everything you share with me is confidential unless you mention anything which means you or someone you know is likely to come to serious harm, you mention anything to do with the drug trafficking act, the children’s act or money laundering. 

    View my privacy policy to understand more about how your personal data is processed and kept safe. 

  • Our first session together will include an assessment so that I understand more about the challenges you are facing, and at the same time it gives you the opportunity to see if I am the right counsellor for you. At the end of the first session you can decide if you would like to continue working with me and we can arrange further appointments. 

  • The number of sessions you will need will very much depend on your individual circumstances. For example, someone who needs help with anxiety might not need as many sessions as someone who has experienced years of childhood trauma. I can however say that I will be open and honest with you throughout and we can look at this together. Regular reviews are done to see how well things are going and what the next steps will be. Remember the choice is always yours.

  • Before you first session I will send you information by email that hopefully covers everything you need to know before we meet.

    During your first session we will spend some time going through the counselling agreement together. This gives us a chance to look at what I can offer you as a therapist and gives me an idea what it is you are hoping to get from our time together.

    I offer a free 15-minute initial consultation by video or phone whichever suits, giving us a chance to have a chat before our first session.

  • The main difference between a counsellor, therapist, and psychotherapist lies in their focus and depth of work.  

    Counsellors typically provide short-term, solution-focused support for specific issues like stress or grief, using practical tools and coping strategies. 

    Therapist is a broad term that can refer to anyone providing therapy, including counsellors and psychotherapists, and their approach varies depending on their training. 

    Psychotherapists, however, focus on deeper, long-term emotional work, exploring the root causes of issues such as trauma or chronic mental health conditions. They often have more extensive training and work with both mild and severe psychological challenges. 

  • Yes, of course. You are not locked into any contracts and the choice is always yours.

  • For full details visit my pricing page.

  • For cancellations 24 hours’ notice is required. 

  • Get in touch to arrange a free informal 15-minute chat about what you are looking for and to see if we are happy to work together.

  • What My Clients Say

    "I am beyond grateful for the support and guidance Annabelle has given me over the years. Annabelle is compassionate and every session was tailored to my needs, she made me feel valued and heard, helping me to navigate through some of the hardest parts of my life. Annabelle provided me with the skills to cope with life’s ups and downs, and I cannot thank her enough for everything she has done for me.”

    - Maisy (Google Review)

    See my reviews on Google
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Take the First Step Towards Feeling Better

If you’re ready to explore how counselling could help, get in touch. We’ll have a chat about what’s going on for you and how I can support you. There’s no pressure — just a chance to see if this feels like the right fit for you.

You don’t have to face this alone. Let’s take that first step together. 

Annabelle

Annabelle Smith

Related Pages

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Counselling & Therapy In-Person & Online