Counsellor profile
Michael Rankin, BACP
Counsellor - Stress and anxiety support
See online counselling options- Stress and anxiety
- Family issues
- Grief and depression
About Michael
Counsellor Michael Rankin is a BACP member with three years of professional experience. He works in the United Kingdom and helps people with stress, anxiety, family issues, grief, depression and coping with life changes.
Michael focuses on clear, direct conversation. He talks through what is happening now and what feels difficult. Sessions look at everyday pressures, emotions that feel overwhelming, and practical ways to cope. He also addresses concerns such as body image, communication problems and social anxiety.
He has worked with people facing fatherhood issues, fertility concerns, first responder stresses and the effects of domestic violence. Other topics Michael covers include guilt and shame, isolation, obsessions and compulsions, and stopping smoking or vaping. He aims to help people notice patterns and try manageable changes between sessions.
Michael uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques in a straightforward way. He helps clients develop coping tools, reframe unhelpful thinking and improve communication. Work in sessions can include short exercises, talking and setting small goals to use day to day.
People who contact Michael typically complete a short matching questionnaire and then arrange a first session. Fees vary by location and sessions use a subscription that can be cancelled at any time. Sessions are offered in English and international clients are not currently accepted.
Evidence-based techniques for remote counselling
Michael uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques in straightforward ways. One common approach focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thinking patterns. This helps people who struggle with anxiety, low mood or negative self-beliefs by practising different ways of framing thoughts and testing them in everyday life.Another approach emphasises practical coping skills and behavioural changes. That can include short exercises, activity planning and step-by-step tasks to reduce avoidance and rebuild confidence after difficult events. These techniques suit people dealing with stress, grief, compulsions or social anxiety.
Finding the right approach is part of the work. Michael will discuss options with each person and agree together which methods to try based on needs, goals and preferences. The choice of techniques can change over time as progress is reviewed and different challenges arise.
Confirm the session formats offered before booking, as these are not specified here. Online work can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy week and reduce travel time. It can also allow for shorter check-ins when schedules are tight or for conversations without being on camera, depending on the formats Michael provides. Registered or accredited professionals can use remote sessions to keep regular contact and practise new skills between meetings.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Additional focus areas
Experience
3+ years
Listed in
United Kingdom
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of problems does he help with?
He helps people with stress, anxiety, family problems, grief, depression and coping with life changes, plus related concerns such as body image and social anxiety.
What is his therapeutic style?
He uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques and focuses on clear, direct conversation, practical coping tools and short exercises in sessions.
How much experience does he have?
He has three years of professional work experience in the United Kingdom.
Which professional body is he a member of?
He is a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, listed as BACP.
In which languages can sessions be held?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can people outside the UK work with him?
He does not accept international clients at this time.
How are fees and payment handled?
Fees vary with location and sessions use a subscription model that can be cancelled at any time.
How do I start a first session?
Use the See online counselling options button, complete a short matching questionnaire and then schedule your first session.
Details come from information the counsellor supplied to BetterHelp. A membership or registration can be checked on the professional body's own register.
Online counselling is not emergency care. In an emergency call 999, or see the help numbers.