Akhtar Counselling | Affordable individual, couple, and family counselling and psychological services.
All appointments are exclusively booked online.
Open 7 days per week, including public holidays.
Akhtar Counselling offers the following sessions or click here for Service Blogs:
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Clinical in-person sessions in London at Golders Green and West Hampstead.
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Ecotherapy is at Childs Hill Park, meeting point: Granville Road, London NW2 2AL.
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Remote online sessions via Zoom.
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Remote Telephone sessions.
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Supervision sessions.
Contact the therapist to arrange the following:
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Ecotherapy is at Childs Hill Park, meeting point: Granville Road, London NW2 2AL.
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Remote Telephone sessions.
Five key counselling methods include:
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Unconditional positive regard – acceptance.
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Empathic understanding – client’s perspective.
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Congruence – honest approach.
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Raising questions – encourages client expression.
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Coaching – assists in overcoming challenges and setting goals.
Akhtar offers assistance for the following:
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Anxiety, Stress, Trauma, and Depression
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Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
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Anger and Aggression Management
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Relationship Breakdowns
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Children and Family Counselling
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Issues with Low Confidence or Self-Esteem
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Grief, Loss, or Bereavement of Loved Ones
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Employment and Workplace Issues
Counselling and Psychological Services
Counselling provides a secure environment for individuals to explore personal challenges and emotions. This process fosters self-awareness, healthier coping strategies, and emotional resilience. It supports those dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, or relationship issues, enabling meaningful transformation in a non-judgmental setting.
Working with a psychologist enhances this journey by employing evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs. Psychologists help identify the root causes of emotional and psychological issues, guiding individuals toward lasting solutions. Together, one can reframe harmful thoughts, improve emotional regulation, and develop skills to manage stress and adversity.
Therapy also encourages personal growth, whether seeking clarity, confidence, or guidance. By setting significant goals and breaking free from negative patterns, individuals can strengthen their sense of self and increase life satisfaction.
Seeking support is an investment in mental and emotional health. Through counselling or therapy, this proactive approach empowers individuals to heal, balance, and live more fulfilling lives.
Couples and Family Counselling: Strengthening Relationships
Family Counselling
Family therapy offers families a safe and structured environment to address challenges, enhance communication, and restore connections. Whether encountering conflict, parenting difficulties, adjustments in blended families, grief, or breaches of trust, counselling assists members in articulating their needs while cultivating empathy and mutual understanding.
Together, families examine underlying issues and dismantle unhealthy patterns, substituting them with constructive modes of interaction. Therapy further guides families during significant transitions—such as divorce, illness, or trauma—by fortifying emotional bonds and equipping them with practical coping strategies. The objective is to create a more harmonious and supportive home where every member feels acknowledged and valued.
Couples Counselling
Relationships flourish with deliberate attention. Couples counselling provides a neutral environment to address communication barriers, trust deficiencies, recurring conflicts, or emotional disconnection. Under the guidance of a skilled therapist, partners learn to articulate their feelings constructively, resolve disagreements with respect, and rejuvenate intimacy.
Therapy aids in identifying negative cycles—such as criticism or withdrawal—and replacing them with healthier dynamics. Whether rebuilding following betrayal, preparing for marriage, or deepening connection, couples acquire tools to nurture resilience, understanding, and long-term satisfaction.
Why It Matters
Investing in therapy fortifies relationships at their core. For families, it fosters unity; for couples, it revitalises commitment. Both paths lead to healthier interactions, emotional healing, and the assurance to confront future challenges together.
Child & Teen Counselling (Ages 11–18)
Growing up can be daunting. Our counselling offers a safe and welcoming environment for children and teens to explore their feelings, build resilience, and cope with challenges such as anxiety, depression, bullying, family changes, or academic stress.
Akhtar encourages young individuals to express themselves authentically through age-appropriate talk therapy while cultivating healthy coping strategies, emotional regulation skills, and enhanced self-esteem. Together, we’ll aim to:
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Understand thoughts and feelings without judgment.
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Create tools for managing stress and expressing needs.
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Boost confidence and strengthen social connections.
Whether dealing with a specific issue or looking for support in personal development, counselling empowers young people to flourish now and in the future.
Supervision Services
Counselling supervision is a vital component of professional development for counsellors, providing a structured environment for guidance, reflection, and growth. Supervision assists counsellors in navigating complex client cases, ensuring they deliver the highest standard of care while upholding ethical practices. It provides a confidential space where counsellors can share their challenges, emotions, and experiences, receiving constructive feedback and support.
Through counselling supervision, professionals can deepen their understanding of therapeutic techniques, refine their skills, and mitigate burnout by processing their emotions. It also aids counsellors in enhancing their self-awareness and emotional resilience, ultimately benefiting both the counsellor and their clients. Supervision ensures that counsellors remain reflective, competent, and confident in their practice, helping them maintain boundaries and avoid any detrimental impacts on their clients.
Overall, counselling supervision is a vital process that promotes personal and professional growth and ensures counsellors deliver adequate, ethical, and compassionate support to those in need.
The Importance of Counselling for Women and Men
Life’s challenges can often seem overwhelming; however, individuals need not face them in solitude. Counselling provides a secure, non-judgmental environment for women and men to examine their emotions, process challenging experiences, and develop strategies for resilience and personal growth.
For women, therapy assists in navigating societal pressures, relationship dynamics, motherhood responsibilities, trauma, and self-esteem challenges. It offers support for conditions such as anxiety, depression, and burnout while simultaneously promoting self-compassion and empowerment.
For men, counselling dismantles stereotypes that inhibit emotional expression. It addresses issues related to stress, anger, professional pressures, and relationship difficulties, facilitating healthier communication and greater emotional awareness.
Individuals universally reap the benefits of therapy through:
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Gaining Clarity – A more profound understanding of thoughts, emotions, and behaviours.
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Improving Relationships – Acquiring communication skills and conflict resolution techniques.
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Managing Stress – Cultivating coping strategies for the demands of life.
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Healing from Trauma – Engaging in processing past experiences within a supportive framework.
Seeking assistance should not be perceived as a sign of weakness; rather, it epitomises an act of strength. Whether confronted with a crisis or aspiring to personal development, counselling equips individuals with the tools necessary to foster a healthier and more fulfilling life.
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How to Book a Therapy Session – Quick & FlexibleScheduling a session is easy and tailored for your convenience: Online Booking: Visit my website and use the 24/7 scheduling platform to select a time that suits your schedule – no phone calls necessary. Flexible Options: Choose between secure Zoom video sessions or telephone consultations based on your preference. Extended Availability: I’m available 7 days a week, including late evenings and public holidays, to accommodate busy schedules. Concession Rates: Limited discounted slots are offered for those with financial constraints – please inquire during booking. Once booked, you’ll receive instant confirmation and session reminders. Need assistance? A contact form is available for questions. Therapy should be accessible – I prioritise ease and flexibility for your journey.
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How to Schedule Your Therapy Sessions and Determine Their FrequencyAkhtar offers a self-booking system, enabling you to reserve only what you need. However, the therapist may suggest the number of sessions you might need, including their frequency, to ensure you do not experience a relapse in your well-being. To accommodate the needs and requirements of all service users, we offer sessions online and via telephone. Akhtar Counselling is available until late evenings and on public holidays. How Often Should You Attend Counselling? A Guide to Session Frequency. The frequency of counselling sessions refers to how often a client schedules or attends them. This can vary based on several factors, including: Common Frequencies: 1. Weekly – Most common for intensive therapies, such as CBT or trauma therapy. 2. Bi-weekly (every 2 weeks) – For moderate support or maintenance. 3. Monthly – For check-ins or long-term progress tracking. 4. As needed (ad hoc) – For crisis support or flexible scheduling. Factors Influencing Frequency: 1. Severity of Concerns (e.g., acute distress vs. general well-being). 2. Therapeutic Approach (some therapies require weekly sessions). 3. Client Availability and Budget (cost and time constraints). 4. Therapist Recommendation (based on progress and goals). Would you like advice on determining the optimal frequency for a specific situation? This is best discussed at the end of your initial session and may likely change later in therapy.
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Akhtar Counselling Therapeutic Approach: Tailored Support for Your NeedsI provide a compassionate, client-centred approach that adapts to your unique goals and challenges. By drawing on evidence-based modalities, I offer: Professional Therapeutic Counselling: A safe, non-judgmental space for exploring emotions and fostering resilience. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Practical tools to reframe negative thoughts and behaviours. Couples/Family Therapy: Enhancing communication and resolving conflicts in relationships. Child Counselling & Challenging Behaviour Support: Play-based, age-appropriate interventions for young clients. Anger Management: Healthy emotional expression and coping strategies. Trauma-Informed Care: Specialized support for PTSD and trauma recovery. Stress Reduction: Techniques to restore balance and prevent burnout. I also incorporate Transactional Analysis (TA) to understand relationship dynamics and offer online or phone sessions for added flexibility. My practice adheres to GDPR compliance, ensuring confidentiality and providing ethical care. Whether addressing acute issues or personal growth, my sessions are collaborative and goal-oriented. Let’s work together to foster healing and empowerment.
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How Do I Know If I Need Therapy? Key Signs to ConsiderTherapy can be beneficial if you’re experiencing: Persistent sadness, anxiety, or hopelessness that disrupts daily life Relationship conflicts (frequent arguments, emotional distance, or trust issues) Overwhelming stress or burnout affecting work, sleep, or health Trauma or grief that feels unmanageable Low self-esteem or negative self-talk Unhealthy coping mechanisms (such as substance use, emotional eating, or isolation) Major life changes (like divorce, career shifts, or loss) that leave you feeling stuck Physical symptoms (fatigue, headaches) without a medical cause You don’t have to be in crisis to benefit—therapy also fosters personal growth, self-discovery, and resilience. If these signs resonate with you, a consultation can help clarify your needs. Therapy is a source of strength, not just a means of coping with struggle.
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When Will I See Results from Counselling?Progress in therapy varies, but many clients notice positive shifts within 4-6 sessions. Factors influencing your timeline include: Your goals: Short-term issues (e.g., stress management) might improve more quickly than deep-seated patterns. Commitment: Practicing techniques between sessions speeds up progress. Therapy type: CBT often demonstrates effects within 6-12 weeks, whereas psychodynamic work may require more time. Typical Milestones: Weeks 1-3: Establishing trust and self-awareness. Weeks 4-8: Cultivating coping strategies and observing behavioural changes. Long-term: Promoting deeper transformation for complex issues, such as trauma. Therapy isn’t a quick fix; it's a collaborative journey. Most clients report feeling lighter, more empowered, and better equipped to handle challenges within the first month.
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How Counselling Strengthens Social Awareness and CommunicationCounselling enhances relationship skills by fostering self-awareness and teaching practical communication strategies. Through guided sessions, individuals learn to recognise emotional patterns, improve active listening, and express their needs clearly. Therapists provide tools, such as "I" statements, to replace blame with constructive dialogue, helping couples and families navigate conflicts more productively. A key benefit is developing empathy—counselling encourages perspective-taking, which deepens understanding of others' experiences. For those with social anxiety, therapy builds confidence through gradual exposure and cognitive techniques. Counsellors also address nonverbal communication, helping clients align their body language and tone with their intentions. By setting healthy boundaries and practicing assertive, rather than aggressive, expression, relationships become more balanced and respectful. Whether addressing workplace dynamics, family tensions, or romantic partnerships, counselling creates a safe space to refine these skills. The result is stronger connections built on mutual understanding and effective communication.
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Counselling vs. Psychology: Key DifferencesCounselling and psychology both support mental well-being but differ in focus and practice. Counselling is typically short-term, goal-oriented, and emphasises emotional support, addressing daily challenges (e.g., stress, relationships), and practical coping strategies. Counsellors often utilise talk therapy and work in settings such as private practices or community centres. Psychology explores mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety, through assessment, diagnosis, and evidence-based treatments. Psychologists with advanced degrees may conduct research, provide clinical therapy, or work in hospitals, often tackling complex or chronic conditions. While counsellors guide clients through life adjustments, psychologists address clinical issues with structured interventions. However, overlap exists—some psychologists provide counselling, and counsellors may collaborate with psychologists for severe cases. Choosing Between Them? Choose counselling for situational struggles; seek psychology for diagnosed disorders or long-term therapy. Both aim to enhance mental health but cater to different needs.
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Who Can Benefit from Psychology? Understanding Its Therapeutic RolePsychology is a science-based discipline that assesses, diagnoses, and treats mental health conditions using evidence-based approaches. While counselling addresses everyday challenges, psychology explores cognitive, emotional, and behavioural disorders in greater depth. Here’s who can benefit from psychological support: Individuals with Mental Health Disorders – Psychologists diagnose and treat conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia using clinical interventions. People with Trauma or PTSD – For severe trauma, psychologists employ specialised therapies like EMDR or prolonged exposure therapy. Those Requiring Psychological Assessments – Evaluations for ADHD, autism, and learning disabilities require a psychologist’s expertise. Chronic Stress or Burnout Sufferers – When stress leads to severe physical or emotional symptoms, psychologists address the root causes and develop long-term coping mechanisms. Addiction & Compulsive Behaviours – Substance abuse, eating disorders, and OCD often require structured, long-term psychological treatment. Children & Adolescents with Behavioural Issues – Psychologists work with developmental disorders, school refusal, or aggression using tailored therapies. Individuals with Neurological Conditions – Brain injuries, dementia, or stroke-related cognitive decline benefit from neuropsychological rehabilitation. People Seeking In-Depth Self-Exploration – For those interested in understanding deeply ingrained patterns, psychotherapy offers insight into unconscious influences. Psychologists work in clinics, hospitals, and research settings, utilizing approaches such as CBT, psychodynamic therapy, and behavioural modification. Their training equips them to manage complex cases that require medication (in collaboration with psychiatrists) or intensive therapy.
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Who Can Benefit from Counselling? Understanding Its Support ScopeCounselling is a versatile form of therapy that helps individuals navigate emotional, psychological, and life challenges. Unlike psychology, which often focuses on diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, counselling offers practical guidance and coping strategies for everyday struggles. Here’s who can benefit from it: Individuals Facing Stress or Anxiety – Work pressure, academic stress, or general anxiety can be managed through structured talk therapy. People Dealing with Grief or Loss – Counselling provides a safe space to process emotions following bereavement or significant life changes. Couples & Families – Relationship conflicts, communication breakdowns, or parenting challenges can be addressed and improved through professional mediation. Those Experiencing Low Self-Esteem – Counsellors assist clients in building confidence and self-worth through positive reinforcement. Workplace Challenges – Career transitions, burnout, or workplace bullying can be effectively addressed through therapy. Survivors of Trauma – While severe PTSD may necessitate psychological intervention, counselling helps with initial emotional processing. Young Adults & Teens – School pressure, identity issues, and social anxiety are common areas of concern. People Seeking Personal Growth – Even without a crisis, counselling can enhance self-awareness and life skills. Counselling is flexible, available in person, online, or by phone, making it accessible for a variety of needs. Whether for short-term support or ongoing growth, it empowers individuals to lead healthier, more balanced lives.
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Is Counselling or Psychology Right for You?Choosing between counselling and psychology depends on your needs: Counselling may be ideal if you: Seek support for life stressors, such as work, relationships, and grief. Desire short-term strategies to enhance daily functioning. Prefer conversational therapy that focuses on current challenges. Require flexible and affordable sessions for personal growth. Psychology may suit you better if you: Experience in diagnosing mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety disorders. Require clinical assessments or diagnostic testing. Benefit from structured, evidence-based therapies, such as CBT and DBT. Need long-term treatment for complex trauma or behavioural issues. Both support self-awareness and emotional well-being, but psychology explores mental health disorders more deeply through specialised interventions. Many individuals begin with counselling and may transition to psychology if necessary, or utilize both approaches complementarily. Consider your goals, symptoms, and budget. Mild to moderate concerns often respond well to counselling, while persistent or severe issues may require psychological care. An initial consultation with either professional can clarify the best way forward.
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Confidentiality in Counselling: What You Need to KnowYour privacy is my highest priority. All discussions during our sessions are kept strictly confidential in accordance with professional ethical guidelines. This means: Your personal information and conversations will never be shared without your explicit consent. Confidentiality is only breached in rare instances where there’s a serious risk of harm to you or others, or if required by law (e.g., safeguarding concerns). I adhere to GDPR standards to protect your data securely. How It Works in Practice: Sessions take place in a private setting or through encrypted platforms like Zoom for online therapy. Brief anonymised notes are securely maintained and never shared. You are welcome to ask questions about confidentiality at any time. Trust and safety are the foundation of effective therapy.
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What If I Don’t Feel Comfortable with My Therapist?Your comfort and trust in the therapeutic relationship are essential for effective counselling. If you feel uneasy: Express Your Concerns – Therapists encourage open dialogue about your experiences. Sharing your discomfort can often lead to constructive adjustments in approach. Evaluate the Fit – Reflect on whether this is a temporary adjustment phase or a deeper incompatibility in style and personality.. Explore Options – If issues persist after our discussion, I would be happy to assist you in transitioning to another qualified professional who is better suited to your needs. Trust the Process – Although some initial discomfort is normal when sharing vulnerably, you should never feel judged, pressured, or unsafe. Remember: You have the right to select a therapist with whom you feel a connection. Different approaches resonate with different individuals. Your healing journey is more important than loyalty to any single professional. Therapy is most effective when you feel heard, respected, and understood. Your comfort is always the priority.
Akhtar Counselling and Psychological Services is a reliable provider of affordable counselling and psychological services.
Click here for more information and booking.
Qualified and approved member of the ACCPH and insured. Registered membership no, #2244
Mr. M. Akhtar, Counselling Psychologist, BSc (Hons), and Clinical Sports Therapist, SAC Dip.
Phone: 07719271779
Clinic Location:
Golders Green Clinic:
18b North End Road.
Golders Green. London, NW11 7PH
(Opposite Golders Green Station and above Pizza Hut)
West Hampstead Clinic:
Ground Floor, Unit 8, Hampstead West.
224 Iverson Road. London, NW6 2HL
(Opposite West Hampstead Thameslink Station)
Outdoor Therapy:
Child Hill Park. Granville Road.
London NW2 2AL.
(Meeting point: Gates on Granville Road)
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Open 7 days per week till 11:00 pm, including public holidays.
