Stephen Padfield, NCPS

Stephen Padfield, who also goes by Steve, is a pluralistic therapist who draws on a range of therapeutic methods to match the right approach to each person and each life stage. He prioritizes the client-therapist relationship and aims to create a non-judgemental, supportive environment where teenagers and adults can explore bereavement, spirituality, sexuality, gender concerns, depression, trauma, anxiety and related issues.

Stephen has trained in mindfulness and offers practical in-the-moment techniques that incorporate meditation practices and ideas from polyvagal theory to help clients manage stress and emotional states. He values an existential perspective that views a person as a whole, taking into account physical, social, personal and spiritual dimensions of experience. That pluralistic stance allows him to adapt methods as needs change over time.

Stephen recently completed a Master of Psychotherapy degree and holds the NCPS credential, which signals formal professional training and standards of practice. He works with clients across a range of life challenges, focusing on tailored, collaborative care that respects each person’s unique context and goals.

Therapeutic approaches and online care

Stephen brings together several practical approaches to therapy so that online sessions can be tailored to each person's needs. Client-Centered Therapy focuses on building a respectful, non-judgemental relationship and helping the client lead the pace and agenda of sessions - this is useful for exploring identity, grief, and personal values. Mindfulness Therapy teaches simple attention and breathing practices to help manage stress and emotional overwhelm; these techniques can be practiced in the moment and integrated into daily life to support anxiety and mood difficulties. Existential Therapy looks at meaning, choice and the broader life context, helping people cope with questions about purpose, loss, and transitions.

Finding the right mix of approaches is part of the therapeutic process. Stephen works collaboratively with clients and registered professionals to identify which methods fit a person's goals, preferences and circumstances, and he adjusts the plan as needs change.

Online therapy offers flexibility in how sessions are scheduled and delivered - from video calls and phone sessions to live chat and text-based messaging. These options make it easier to access consistent support around work, family or mobility constraints, and allow therapists to use the same therapeutic tools and techniques in formats that suit each client.