Paula Smyton, BACP

Paula Smyton is a UK-based psychodynamic counsellor and integrative practitioner with about 10 years of experience across counselling services, education, mental health settings and private practice. She is also a qualified teacher and a member of the BACP, which stands for the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. Paula brings a calm, thoughtful presence to her work and creates a therapeutic environment where people can begin to make sense of what they are facing.

Many people who seek Paula's support have been managing on their own for some time, appearing to cope outwardly while privately struggling with anxiety, low mood, relationship difficulties, family challenges, stress, loss, life transitions or a sense that something feels off. Some arrive feeling overwhelmed by multiple pressures at once, while others are emotionally exhausted from long-standing responsibilities or worries. Paula offers a space to pause, reflect and explore these experiences without pressure to have everything figured out.

Her approach is grounded in psychodynamic therapy, which looks at how past experiences and relationship patterns shape present feelings and behaviour. She also draws on integrative methods, including person-centred techniques and solution-focused ideas, so the work can be tailored to each person’s needs. Paula often focuses on relationships - with partners, family, friends, colleagues and the relationship individuals have with themselves - helping people understand recurring patterns and gain greater clarity. She welcomes individuals who are ready to begin exploring their concerns in a warm, compassionate and non-judgmental setting.