Hi, I’m Matt. Thank you for taking the time to look at my profile. Reaching out can be the first step toward clarity, healing, and a life that feels more aligned with who you are.

I am fully qualified in Gestalt counselling and trained to work therapeutically within a humanistic, relational approach that focuses on your lived experience in the here and now.

Qualifications

BSc (Hons) Gestalt Counselling, University of Portsmouth

Dip HE Gestalt Counselling, University of Portsmouth

Registered Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).

My approach is grounded in the principles of Gestalt therapy. I offer a warm, compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can come exactly as you are. Together, we focus on what feels most present and meaningful for you, working with curiosity, honesty, and care.

I support clients in exploring the different parts of the self that can show up in our inner world: the parts that protect, the parts that carry pain, and the parts that quietly help us cope. Within a Gestalt framework, we meet these parts gently and respectfully, giving each the space to be heard and understood. This often brings clarity, integration, and a deeper sense of inner peace.

Before becoming a counsellor, I spent over 10 years working within mental health, addiction and substance misuse services. These experiences deepened my understanding of the courage it takes to seek support and the importance of being met with genuine presence and empathy. I learned, and truly believe, that people are not problems to be fixed but human beings to be heard, understood, cared for, and met with compassion.

My own personal challenges and life experiences played a meaningful part in my decision to retrain as a counsellor. They are woven into the foundations of my practice, allowing me to sit beside you with real understanding and an appreciation of how vulnerable it can feel to open and how tough it can be to ask for help.

I work in line with the BACP Ethical Framework, which means I am committed to offering a confidential, professionally held, and emotionally safe space. Boundaries, respect, and your wellbeing are always at the center of our work together.

I am experienced in working with adults and young people aged 16 to 19. I offer individual therapy to support you through whatever you are facing. I have experience of working with both short term and long-term therapy, depending on what each person needs and what feels right for them. Whether you are navigating challenges with your mental health, doubting yourself or your abilities, addiction, relationship difficulties, a sense of disconnection from yourself, or your concerns are clear, complex, hard to put into words, or do not fit neatly into a category, I am here to walk alongside you. I believe therapy should always be ethical, safe, and grounded in respect for your pace and your autonomy.

Sessions and Fees

Sessions last 50 minutes and are offered face-to-face, with weekly sessions available to offer a regular and reliable space for you.

- Standard fee: £75 per session

- First session: £50, a reduced rate to give you space to get a sense of my approach and whether it supports what you need

- Concessions: may be available for students and those on a low income

- Free 15-minute initial consultation offered to all new clients

In our first session, we will take some time to explore what brings you here and what you are hoping for, at a pace that feels safe for you. There is no pressure to share anything before you are ready. We simply begin by getting to know each other.

Contact

If you would like to book a session or arrange a free 15-minute consultation, you can email me at: matthew@hopefultides.com