Sharon McHugh

Sharon McHugh is a counsellor who helps people heal from anxiety and trauma linked to difficult upbringings. She works with clients to build a clearer sense of self and to find new ways of coping. Sharon holds BACP registration and draws on several counselling approaches to guide sessions.

Sharon aims to make each session led by the client. She creates time for people to bring whatever feels important that week. Early meetings focus on your goals and on making a practical plan for how counselling can help.

In the room she asks questions that help you talk through your experience. These conversations are used to piece together what has shaped your reactions and habits. Together you can begin to understand patterns and choose different responses.

Her background includes work in private practice and in external agencies over seven years. She has supported people struggling with anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem and problems that began in childhood or adolescence. She also works with issues such as addiction, sleep problems, panic and relationship or intimacy questions.

Sharon trained as an Integrative Counsellor to Level 4 and completed Cognitive Behaviour Therapy at Level 5. She also holds a diploma in hypnotherapy and psychotherapy. She regularly updates her skills through ongoing courses to broaden how she can help people.

Clients who are drawn to a calm, empathetic and practical style may find her approach helpful. If you want a counsellor who listens first and plans with you, she offers that collaborative way of working.

How Sharon's approaches work online and in therapy

Client-Centred Therapy focuses on listening and following your lead. The counsellor offers empathy and reflection so you feel heard while you work out what matters to you. This approach is often used for issues like self-esteem, identity and coping after difficult childhood experiences.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, or CBT, looks at how thoughts, feelings and behaviours connect. It uses clear steps and practical exercises to reduce anxiety, panic and low mood by changing unhelpful thinking and habits.

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, or DBT, emphasises emotion regulation and distress tolerance. It teaches skills for managing strong feelings, reducing impulsivity and improving relationships, which can help with challenges like emotional overwhelm and self-harm urges.

Finding the right approach is part of the work together. The therapist will discuss your goals, needs and preferences and suggest approaches that may suit you. Decisions are made collaboratively so the plan fits your situation rather than being imposed.

If you are thinking about online therapy, confirm the current session options before booking. Practical benefits can include fitting sessions around work or family commitments, avoiding travel time and choosing shorter check-ins when needed. Discussing format and scheduling at the start helps make sessions manageable and useful for everyday life.