- Stress and anxiety
- Addictions support
- CBT and DBT techniques
About Derek
Derek Wheeler is a UK-credentialed counsellor with 18 years of professional experience. He focuses on stress, anxiety, addictions, relationship difficulties, trauma and abuse, and grief. Derek works with adults who are asking what comes next after a major change or when everyday pressures feel overwhelming.
He emphasises straightforward, person-focused conversations. Sessions concentrate on what is happening now and on practical steps that can bring relief. Derek invites clients to talk through difficult thoughts and feelings and to test new ways of coping in everyday life.
His work draws on several established approaches, including cognitive behavioural ideas and client-centred practice. That means sessions often mix problem-solving and skills practice with a steady listening stance. Derek also uses techniques from dialectical behaviour therapy and solution-focused work when they fit a person’s situation.
People often reach out for help with attachment and abandonment worries, codependency, communication problems and issues around infidelity or separation. He also supports those dealing with first responder stresses, caregiver strain, body image, hoarding and problems linked to guilt and shame.
Derek describes the first meetings as a chance to set clear, practical goals. After that he and the client agree on steps to try between sessions and check what is working. He asks people to start with a short matching questionnaire and then schedule an initial appointment through the online options link provided.
Approaches used and how online sessions work
Derek commonly draws on cognitive behavioural therapy and client-centred practice. Cognitive behavioural therapy focuses on the link between thoughts, feelings and behaviours and offers practical techniques to manage anxiety, stress and unhelpful patterns. Client-centred work prioritises the person's own perspective and aims to make space for honest discussion while deciding next steps together.He also uses elements of dialectical behaviour therapy when emotional regulation skills are needed, and solution-focused techniques to identify concrete goals and small changes that can be tried between meetings. Choosing the right approach is collaborative; Derek will work with a person to agree which methods fit their goals and preferences and will adjust the plan as progress is reviewed.
The original profile does not specify which online session formats are offered, so confirm current options before booking. Online sessions can make it easier to fit appointments around work, caregiving and travel. They also allow for shorter check-ins when time is limited, or longer sessions when a deeper discussion is needed. Registered or accredited professionals can use the online setting to practise the same CBT, DBT and solution-focused techniques they use in person, while helping clients apply changes in daily life.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
18+ years
Listed in
United Kingdom
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of problems does he help with?
He works with stress, anxiety, addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, and grief, plus related concerns such as abandonment, attachment issues and communication problems.
How would he approach someone feeling stuck?
He uses client-centred listening alongside practical strategies from cognitive behavioural and solution-focused work to identify small, doable steps forward.
How much experience does he have?
He has 18 years of professional experience working with adults on the issues listed in his profile.
What credential does he hold and where is he based?
He holds NCPS and practises in the United Kingdom.
Can I work with him if I live outside the UK?
Sessions are offered to international clients and are conducted in English.
Which session formats are used?
The original biography does not list specific session formats; please confirm current options before booking.
How are costs handled?
Cost varies with location; sessions use a subscription that can be cancelled at any time.
What do I need to do to begin?
Click the See online therapy options button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and then schedule a first session.
Online talk therapy is not emergency care. If you are in danger, use the crisis numbers.