Carl Argent

Monday to Saturday, starting at 09:00, finishing at 20:00

Hello, I’m Carl. I believe lasting change happens when you feel safe enough to be yourself. I offer a pragmatic, kind space where you can slow down, breathe, and be accepted exactly as you are. I am a person first and a therapist second. Having navigated my own challenges, I bring my real self to our sessions and understand how daunting that first step can be.

My approach is primarily person-centred, meaning I listen to your story from your viewpoint to help you find clarity. Because words can sometimes be hard to find, I also work creatively, using adult play, art, or stones to explore your experience. I don't see you as someone who needs "fixing" – rather, I see an individual navigating a unique journey. Together, we will build a trusted partnership where you can reclaim your agency. It is this relationship between us that heals. I focus on building a secure, genuine bond where you feel safe enough to lower your defenses, allowing us to do the deep work required for lasting change.

I work with a wide range of issues but specialise in stress, anxiety, depression, men's mental health, relationships, and bereavement. I am also trained in Emotionally-Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT), which is grounded in attachment science. This helps us explore deep-seated patterns in relationships, self-esteem, and trauma. Additionally, my training in Positive Psychology allows us to focus on your inner resources and strengths, helping you move from feeling stuck to finding meaning and growth.

I welcome clients from all cultures, genders, and backgrounds, including members of the LGBT+ community and those who are neurodivergent (I have specific experience with Autism and ADHD). My practice is trauma-informed and inclusive, ensuring you feel validated and heard. Whether you are dealing with burnout, life transitions, or deep attachment wounds, I am on your side. I provide the counselling; you do the therapy, empowering you to uncover the answers you need to lead a life worth living.

My practice is grounded in the belief that you are the expert on your own life. I offer a safe, confidential environment where we can gently unpick your story, integrate your experiences, and strengthen your sense of self. I work with adults on an open-ended basis or for a fixed number of sessions, typically finding that 12 to 24 sessions provide a solid foundation for change, though this is entirely flexible to your needs.

I offer in-person counselling at my therapeutic base in Shoeburyness, a quiet space located at the top of a house where we won't be disturbed. For those further afield or who prefer remote work, I am a certified online therapist offering video sessions via Google Meet, as well as telephone counselling. I ensure online work is delivered with the same care and safety as face-to-face sessions, using secure platforms and safety protocols.

My work is integrative, drawing on a Level 4 Diploma that combines person-centred values with CBT, Transactional Analysis, and psychodynamic theories. This allows me to adapt my approach to you. For example, we might use EFT to heal attachment ruptures or Positive Psychology to rebuild after burnout. I have specific training from CRUSE for bereavement and hold a deep compassion for those dealing with loss. I also have experience working with porn addiction.

I strive to make counselling accessible. My standard fees are £50 for 50 minutes, £60 for 60 minutes, and £80 for 90 minutes. I offer a sliding scale for those on lower incomes, students, NHS key workers, and those aged 65+, as well as a specific rate of £30 for 30 minutes for clients with Autism/ADHD. I am also a registered provider for WPA, Aviva, and VitalityHealth.

Ultimately, my practice is about connection. It is not about me imposing a psychological explanation, but about us collaborating to help you understand how your past shapes your present, breaking old cycles, and finding the resilience to bounce forward.

I offer a free, no-obligation 30-minute introductory chat before we book a full session. This is a light, informal opportunity for us to connect via telephone or video call to see if we are a good fit. It’s important that you feel comfortable with me, as the therapeutic relationship is the foundation of our work. You can ask any questions you have, and we can briefly discuss what brings you to counselling.

If we decide to proceed, our first full session will be about getting to know you better and establishing a safe space. We will discuss your goals and what you hope to achieve. There is no pressure to "perform" or have all the answers straight away. We will go at your pace. I may ask about your history and current situation to get a clearer picture of your world, but you only need to share what you feel safe sharing.

We will also cover the practical agreement for our work together, ensuring boundaries and confidentiality are clear. If you are using health insurance (Aviva, WPA, VitalityHealth), we will confirm those details. My aim is for you to leave the first session feeling heard, respected, and clearer about the path ahead.