Frequently Asked
Questions
Tom Gibbons Counselling
What issues do you help people with in counselling?
I support adults experiencing a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties, including anxiety, depression, addiction, alcohol misuse, low self-esteem, stress, relationship difficulties, trauma, grief, anger, and life transitions.
I have a particular interest in supporting people struggling with alcohol use, addictive behaviours, emotional regulation, and the impact these difficulties can have on relationships, work, confidence, and mental health. I also work with clients who feel stuck, overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure about who they are becoming.
My therapy offers a confidential, non-judgmental space to explore thoughts, emotions, behaviours, and patterns at your own pace.
What type of counselling do you offer?
I am an integrative counsellor, which means I draw from different therapeutic approaches depending on your needs, personality, and goals.
This may include:
- Person-centred therapy
- Psychodynamic and Childhood work
- CBT-informed techniques
- Gestalt theory
- Existential exploration
- Addiction and recovery-informed work
Rather than using a “one-size-fits-all” model, I aim to build a therapeutic relationship that feels genuine, collaborative, and supportive.
Can counselling help with alcohol problems or addiction?
Yes. I work with people experiencing alcohol difficulties, addiction, compulsive behaviours, and recovery-related challenges.
You do not need to identify as an “addict” to seek support. Many people come to counselling because they are questioning their relationship with alcohol or substances, noticing unhealthy coping patterns, or feeling concerned about the impact on their mental health, relationships, or self-esteem.
Counselling can help you:
- Understand triggers and emotional patterns
- Explore the role substances play in your life
- Develop healthier coping strategies
- Build self-awareness and resilience
- Navigate recovery and relapse prevention
- Rebuild confidence and identity
I also understand that recovery is deeply personal, and therapy can support people whether they are abstinent, reducing use, newly sober, or uncertain about change.
What happens during the first counselling session?
The first session is an opportunity for us to explore what has brought you to counselling and what you hope to gain from therapy.
You can expect a calm, confidential, and non-judgmental conversation where we discuss:
- Your current difficulties
- Relevant background information
- Your goals or concerns
- How counselling might help
- Any questions you may have
There is no pressure to share everything immediately. The first session is also a chance to see whether we feel like a good fit to work together.
How do I know if counselling is right for me?
Many people seek counselling when they feel emotionally overwhelmed, stuck in patterns they cannot change, disconnected from themselves, or unable to cope in the way they used to.
You do not need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy.
Counselling may help if you are:
- Feeling anxious, low, or emotionally exhausted
- Struggling with alcohol, addiction, or compulsive behaviours
- Experiencing relationship difficulties
- Finding it hard to manage stress or emotions
- Dealing with loss, trauma, or change
- Wanting greater self-understanding and personal growth
Therapy can provide space to reflect, process emotions, and develop healthier ways of relating to yourself and others.
Do you offer online counselling sessions?
Yes. I offer online counselling sessions for clients across the UK using secure video platforms.
Online therapy can provide flexible, accessible support from the comfort of your own home and is often helpful for people balancing work, family responsibilities, travel limitations, or anxiety around attending in person.
I also offer in-person counselling from my therapy room in Marylebone, London..
