Michelle Chapman , NCPS

Michelle Chapman (she/her) is an integrative counsellor who runs Athena Counselling and offers therapy through her practice website, www.athenacounselling.com. She combines a grounded, down-to-earth manner with a non-judgemental approach to help people work through stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, imposter syndrome and other concerns. Michelle also specialises in gaming and geek therapy, adapting therapeutic work to clients who find meaning and connection in gaming and geek culture.

Michelle trained on and off for about ten years while gaining experience in different roles before concentrating fully on counselling. She holds the NCPS credential, a professional counselling qualification, and has three years of clinical experience working with a diverse range of issues including trauma, relationships, addictions and life transitions. Her practice emphasises collaboration - exploring the whats and whys of current difficulties and tailoring support to each person’s needs.

Alongside individual work, Michelle has been developing workshops and training materials to share her approach to geek therapy with other counsellors. That training work is ongoing, reflecting her commitment to refining methods that engage clients through their interests and strengths.

Integrative Approaches and Online Care

Michelle Chapman practices an integrative form of counselling that draws on evidence-based therapeutic techniques to address a range of concerns. She uses cognitive and behavioural strategies to help clients identify unhelpful thinking patterns and develop practical skills for managing anxiety, low mood and stress. These approaches focus on changing thoughts and behaviours to improve day-to-day functioning.

For clients dealing with trauma and abuse, her work is informed by trauma-aware methods that prioritise safety, pacing and emotional regulation. This helps people process difficult experiences and build coping resources over time. Michelle also tailors sessions to clients who connect through gaming and geek culture, using those interests as a bridge to engagement and self-understanding.

Finding the right therapeutic approach is part of the process, and Michelle collaborates with each person to determine what fits best based on their needs, goals and preferences. She will work with clients to try different techniques and adjust the plan as progress is made.

Online therapy with Michelle is offered by video call, phone, live chat or text-based messaging, providing flexibility for scheduling and for choosing the format that feels most comfortable. These options make it easier to access consistent support while balancing work, family and daily life, and allow licensed professionals to work with clients in ways that suit individual circumstances.