Dr. John Hilsdon

Dr. John Hilsdon is a BACP-registered counsellor in the United Kingdom with 24 years of clinical experience. He helps people who are coping with stress, anxiety, addictions, relationship difficulties, grief and depression. He also works with concerns such as life purpose, men's issues, midlife change and problems related to illness and end-of-life care.

John uses a straightforward, conversational style in sessions. He encourages people to talk about what matters most and to notice the choices they can make now. Sessions tend to focus on what is happening in life today, and on practical ways to manage distressing thoughts and behaviours.

His practice draws on client-centred therapy, which puts the person’s experience at the heart of the work. That approach supports clearer thinking about problems and improved emotional regulation. He also uses existential therapy to help people reflect on meaning, direction and values when life feels uncertain.

Over many years he has worked with a wide range of issues from panic and phobias to process addictions such as gambling or exercise, and concerns about prejudice and discrimination. He is experienced supporting people facing cancer, hospice and end-of-life matters, and first responder-related stress.

Sessions are practical and conversational. Clients can expect to be listened to, to try techniques between sessions, and to review what does and does not help. To start, people are invited to complete a short matching questionnaire and arrange a first appointment.

Therapeutic approaches and online working

Client-centred therapy places the person's own experience at the centre of sessions. The counsellor listens closely and follows what the client brings, helping them find their own solutions and make sense of feelings. This approach is useful for stress, anxiety and relationship concerns.

Existential therapy looks at questions of meaning, choice and responsibility. It helps people who feel stuck about life direction, who are questioning purpose, or who are navigating major life transitions. Work with this approach tends to be reflective and focused on values and priorities.

Choosing an approach is often part of the early work. The counsellor will discuss which methods fit best and will adjust the focus as goals and preferences become clearer. This is a collaborative process where the client helps shape the direction of therapy.

The biography does not specify which session formats are offered, so please confirm current options before booking. Online sessions can make it easier to fit appointments into a busy week, allow shorter check-ins when needed, and remove travel time. Many people find remote sessions help them keep continuity of work across life changes, but the counsellor will discuss practical arrangements and what suits each person's situation.