Stanley Okafor , BACP

Stanley Okafor is a BACP-registered psychotherapist and counsellor with more than 15 years of experience working across private practice, forensic settings, and the NHS, where he serves as a senior and lead therapist for a large NHS Trust. He offers one-to-one, evidence-informed psychotherapy and draws principally on cognitive behavioral methods while integrating other effective techniques to meet each person’s unique needs.

His work covers a wide range of issues, including stress, anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, addictions, anger, grief, relationship difficulties, parenting and family concerns, self-esteem, eating and sleeping problems, and coping with life changes. He also has experience supporting people experiencing suicidal ideation, self-harm, domestic violence, and complex personality or attachment-related difficulties. Within the forensic setting he facilitates an anger management group and provides assessments and treatment planning for varied clinical presentations.

Assessment begins with a clinical evaluation to explore presenting problems, set collaborative goals, and consider risk where appropriate. Stanley emphasises a warm, respectful, non-judgmental stance and prioritises building trust and rapport to create a constructive therapeutic relationship. He views therapy as a process rather than a quick fix and works with clients who are ready to engage in a journey toward longer-term change. Stanley accepts new clients, including those outside the United Kingdom, and provides therapy in English.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Support

Stanley commonly works with cognitive behavioral therapy and client-centred approaches, and he also draws on emotionally focused methods when appropriate. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps people identify and change unhelpful thinking and behaviour patterns to reduce symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and dysfunctional coping. Client-centred therapy emphasises a compassionate, non-directive relationship in which the therapist creates space for the client to explore feelings and find their own solutions - it is useful for building self-esteem, improving relationships, and navigating life transitions. Emotionally-focused therapy (EFT) concentrates on understanding and reshaping emotional responses, which can be particularly helpful for relationship difficulties and attachment-related concerns.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Stanley collaborates with each person to assess needs, goals, and preferences and will adapt methods to fit what is most likely to be helpful for the individual. This collaborative process helps shape a treatment plan that feels manageable and relevant.

Online therapy offers practical flexibility - sessions can take place by video call, by phone, or through live chat and text-based messaging. These options make it easier to fit therapy into busy schedules, to access support from different locations, and to continue work between sessions with messages or chat when needed. Licensed professionals can deliver effective care through these formats, helping clients make meaningful progress from wherever they are.