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Matthew Costello

Matthew Costello, BACP

BACP counsellor - anxiety and life stress

United Kingdom

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Credentials
BACP
Registration
BACP, United Kingdom / 406818
Experience
3 years
Languages
English
Location
United Kingdom
  • Person-centred approach
  • Evidence-based techniques
  • Works with addictions

About Matthew

Matthew Costello is a BACP-registered counsellor with three years of practice based in the United Kingdom. He lists stress, anxiety, addictions, parenting, self-esteem and many related concerns among his focus areas. Sessions are offered in English and he works with people facing a wide range of life difficulties.

Matthew practises from a person-centred perspective. That means he listens closely to what matters to each person and helps them make practical changes. He draws on evidence-based therapeutic techniques to address problems such as panic attacks, grief, trauma and relationship strain.

People who come because of addiction or substance concerns will find straightforward conversations about behaviour and coping strategies. Those facing anxiety or panic are supported with steps to reduce avoidance and practise small exposures in day-to-day life. Matthew also addresses issues around body image, self-esteem and intimacy in clear, practical terms.

His background includes work with people who describe neurodiversity-related needs and varied mental health tensions. He uses that experience to adapt how he talks, plans sessions and sets realistic goals. Sessions focus on building skills, communication and problem-solving rather than labels.

Practical matters such as parenting stress, fatherhood issues, career transitions and midlife concerns are handled with straightforward planning and coaching-style discussion. For people dealing with anger, impulsivity or hoarding, the emphasis is on small, achievable steps and tracking progress.

This profile explains how he works and the kinds of concerns he sees. To start, follow the site's process to choose online therapy options, complete the short matching questionnaire and schedule a first session.

How therapeutic methods translate to online sessions

Person-centred practice focuses on listening and reflecting so a person feels heard and can decide next steps. Online sessions keep that same back-and-forth: the counsellor asks about what matters most, mirrors concerns, and helps people set practical goals. This approach suits someone who wants space to talk and practical guidance for everyday problems.

Evidence-based techniques include structured work on symptoms, such as gradual exposure for panic and anxiety, and practical skills for managing cravings in addiction. These methods involve clear steps and homework tasks that people can practise between sessions to notice gradual change.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. The counsellor will review needs, goals and preferences together and try methods that fit the person. That collaborative selection helps steer sessions toward what feels useful and realistic for everyday life.

Session formats are not specified in the biography, so confirm current options before booking. Many people find online sessions easier to fit around work and family life, reduce travel time and allow shorter check-ins when needed. If someone prefers a quieter or less visual meeting, discuss shorter or audio-only sessions as possible adaptations.

Areas of expertise

Also works with

LGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefIntimacy-related issuesEating disordersSleeping disordersAnger managementCareer difficultiesBipolar disorderCoping with life changesCoachingCompassion fatigueADHD

Additional focus areas

Body imageCommunication problemsControl issuesDivorce and separationDomestic violenceDrug and alcohol addictionFatherhood issuesHoardingImpulsivityIsolation / lonelinessLife purposeMen's issuesMidlife crisisNarcissismPanic disorder and panic attacksSelf-harmSelf-loveSexualitySocial anxiety and phobiaWorkplace issuesYoung adult issues

Experience

3+ years

Listed in

United Kingdom

Languages

English

Frequently asked questions

What kinds of problems does he help with?

He works with stress, anxiety, addictions, parenting strain, self-esteem, depression and related concerns such as panic attacks, trauma, grief and relationship issues.

What is his therapeutic approach and style?

He uses a person-centred way of working, listening closely and helping people make practical changes. He also draws on evidence-based therapeutic techniques to address specific symptoms.

How much experience does he have?

He has three years of clinical experience working in the United Kingdom with a range of mental health and neurodiversity-related presentations.

What credential does he hold and where is he based?

He is registered with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and practises in the United Kingdom.

Which languages are sessions offered in?

Sessions are offered in English.

Can international clients work with him?

He is not currently accepting international clients.

How are sessions paid for and what does it cost?

Costs vary with location and sessions run through a subscription model that can be cancelled at any time.

How do I begin a first appointment?

Use the See online therapy options button, complete the short matching questionnaire and then schedule your first session.

Matthew CostelloBACP

See online therapy options