Michael Wilkes-Spellman, NCPS

Michael Wilkes-Spellman is an accredited member of the National Counselling Society, holding the NCPS credential which indicates accreditation with that professional body. He completed his counselling training in 2011 and continues to refresh and expand his skills across a range of wellbeing topics. He works part time as a counsellor and offers appointments on weekday evenings.

Trained in an integrated way, Michael adapts his support to the needs of each person, drawing principally on person-centred and cognitive behavioural methods. He encourages attention to an individual’s unique experience of distress, helps clients develop a clearer understanding of those difficulties and, where appropriate, works to address negative patterns of thinking or behaviour. He enjoys supporting adults, couples and older adults as they navigate a wide variety of life challenges, offering practical and reflective support tailored to each situation.

Therapeutic approaches for remote sessions

Michael uses client-centred therapy to create a respectful, non-directive space where the client’s own experience guides the work. This approach supports people who need exploration of feelings, identity or relationship concerns by focusing on their perspective and personal strengths.

He also draws on cognitive behavioural therapy - a practical, structured approach that helps identify and change unhelpful thinking and behaviour patterns. CBT can be useful for managing anxiety, low mood and stress by building new skills and coping strategies.

Mindfulness therapy is offered as a complementary approach to help people develop present-moment awareness and reduce reactivity. It can support emotional regulation and coping with ongoing stressors.

Choosing the right approach is part of the process and Michael works collaboratively with clients to find what fits best for their needs, goals and preferences. Registered professionals and therapists can adapt methods over time as those needs change.

Online therapy with Michael is available via video calls, phone sessions, live chat or text-based messaging, offering flexibility to fit appointments around work and daily life and making it easier to maintain continuity of care when in-person meetings are not practical.