Michelle Freeman, BACP

Michelle Freeman is an integrative psychotherapist and BACP accredited practitioner who brings 13 years of experience to her work with adults, young people and couples. She combines person-centered listening with evidence-informed techniques such as EMDR and hypnotherapy, and uses mindfulness practices to support people coping with trauma, PTSD and complex stress responses. Michelle adapts her approach to suit each person, offering either short-term focused work or longer-term therapy depending on individual needs.

Her practice covers a wide range of concerns including anxiety, stress, sleep difficulties, low self-esteem, relationship and intimacy-related issues, eating difficulties, anger, ADHD and the effects of abuse or traumatic experiences. Michelle has particular experience supporting people affected by domestic abuse and childhood trauma, and she frames counselling as a collaborative relationship that helps clients explore how past and present experiences shape their thoughts, feelings and behaviour.

Clients can expect a non-judgemental, genuine and respectful environment where the therapist aims to understand each person from their own perspective and move at a pace that feels comfortable. Alongside talking therapy, Michelle offers creative and hypnotherapeutic options when these better meet a client’s communication needs. As a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), she follows professional standards and ethical practice while working with people from a variety of backgrounds, including international clients.

Approaches for online trauma-informed care

Michelle uses several approaches that translate well to remote work. EMDR is offered as a trauma-focused method that supports processing distressing memories through structured bilateral stimulation alongside talk-based processing, and it is often used when past events continue to cause strong emotional reactions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps people identify and adjust unhelpful thought patterns and behaviours that maintain anxiety, low mood or sleep difficulties, and it typically involves practical strategies and homework tasks to build new coping skills. Client-Centered Therapy places emphasis on empathic listening and a non-directive stance, giving clients space to explore their own goals while the therapist offers acceptance and understanding.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. Michelle works with each person to understand their needs, goals and preferences, and will recommend or combine methods as appropriate so that the plan fits the individual rather than imposing a single model.

Online therapy offers practical flexibility - sessions can take place by video call or phone, and live chat or text-based messaging provide shorter, real-time options for people who need more frequent check-ins or who prefer written communication. These remote formats make it easier to access consistent support across distances and busy schedules while allowing registered professionals to tailor pacing and tools to each client’s circumstances.