- Anxiety and stress
- Panic and phobias
- Addiction support
About Hal
Hal Thompson offers calm, straightforward support for people feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stress or panic. He writes in a direct way and aims to make the first steps easier for anyone unsure about talking to a counsellor. Hal is named up front to help you connect with who you might work with.
Hal holds a BA in psychology from the University of Sussex and a Master of Science in psychodynamic counselling and psychotherapy from Birkbeck, University of London. He is registered with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, BACP. He brings three years of clinical practice to his current work and has a longer background in related mental health roles.
His main approach is psychodynamic. That means he pays attention to how past experiences and learned coping strategies can show up in day-to-day life today. He uses curious, compassionate conversation to help people see patterns and try different responses.
Hal also draws on cognitive behavioural ideas and internal family systems where these fit someone’s needs. He aims to tailor the work so it feels practical and understandable, not full of jargon. Sessions focus on what is most useful right now while also looking at deeper causes when helpful.
People mention a range of worries he supports, including panic disorder and panic attacks, social anxiety, trauma, addictions and low self-esteem. Hal aims to work collaboratively, helping each person find clearer breathing space and new ways of coping.
Practical approaches for online therapy and choosing a method
Psychodynamic work looks at how earlier experiences and repeated ways of coping affect current feelings and behaviour. In an online setting this can mean gently tracing patterns in conversation and linking them to what happens day to day, which can be useful for worries like panic and long-standing anxiety.Cognitive behavioural ideas focus on identifying unhelpful thoughts and behaviours and trying alternative strategies. Online sessions can include short, focused tasks and practical steps to practise between meetings to reduce panic symptoms and ease social anxiety.
Finding the right approach is part of the work itself. The therapist will discuss options and agree a way forward with the client based on their needs, goals and what feels comfortable. This is a collaborative process, not a one-size-fits-all prescription.
The practical benefits of meeting online include fitting therapy into a busy week and avoiding travel time. Please confirm current session formats before booking, as specific options are not detailed here. Many people find online meetings help them keep continuity of care while juggling work, family and other commitments.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Additional focus areas
Experience
3+ years
Listed in
United Kingdom
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of concerns can be addressed here?
Hal helps with anxiety, stress and panic alongside issues such as addictions, trauma, self-esteem and social anxiety.
How would you describe the therapy style?
He uses a psychodynamic approach to look at how past patterns affect present life and can include cognitive behavioural ideas and internal family systems where helpful.
What is Hal's professional background?
He holds a BA in psychology and a Master of Science in psychodynamic counselling and psychotherapy, with three years of clinical practice experience.
Where is the therapist based and what credential is held?
He is based in the United Kingdom and is registered with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, BACP.
Which languages are supported for sessions?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can people outside the UK work with him?
International clients are accepted, so people outside the UK can discuss options for working together.
How are fees and payment handled?
Costs vary with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription model that can be cancelled at any time.
How do I start a course of therapy?
Select the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule sessions according to the therapist's availability.