Leo Puttock , BACP

Leo Puttock is a person-centred counsellor based on the edge of the Peak District near Macclesfield, bringing six years of professional experience working with both young people and adults. He has provided support across the NHS, with local charities, and in private practice, developing a broad understanding of how different life circumstances shape emotional and relational struggles. His work addresses anxiety and depression, traumatic and adverse experiences, work-related stress, relationship difficulties, issues faced by new parents, addictions, identity and sexuality questions, and related concerns such as body image, attachment and dissociation.

At the core of his practice is a person-centred philosophy that trusts each individual to work toward self-actualisation and to find their own frame of reference for growth. He also draws on a range of therapeutic tools to match what feels most helpful in the moment, including brief solution-focused techniques, cognitive-behavioural skills, relational work that examines everyday interactions, and trauma-informed approaches. He places particular emphasis on acceptance and values-based work, and on cultivating present-moment awareness through mindfulness.

Leo holds BACP, the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, and brings an affirming stance toward LGBT clients. His practice spans many areas including grief, parenting, addiction, eating issues, bipolar support, and coping with life changes, with additional focus on abandonment, fatherhood issues, gender dysphoria, and impulsivity.

How Leo's Approaches Translate to Online Therapy

Leo integrates Client-Centered Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy alongside Mindfulness Therapy to create a practical, values-focused way of working. Client-Centered Therapy emphasizes a respectful, non-directive stance that helps people explore their own experiences and build self-trust; it is useful for issues around identity, relationships, and self-esteem. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps clients clarify what matters to them, learn to accept difficult thoughts and feelings, and take committed action aligned with their values - this can be particularly helpful for anxiety, depression, and coping with life changes. Mindfulness Therapy teaches present-moment awareness skills that can reduce reactivity and support emotional regulation, which is beneficial for stress, trauma recovery, and addictive patterns.

Choosing the right approach is part of the therapeutic process, and Leo works collaboratively with clients to identify what fits their needs, goals, and preferences. He draws on different techniques as appropriate and adapts the focus as progress unfolds.

Online therapy with Leo can take place by video call, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging, offering flexibility for those balancing work, family, or geographic limitations. These options allow ongoing access to licensed professionals and make it easier to maintain continuity of care while tailoring sessions to each person’s practical needs.