- LGBT concerns
- Trauma and abuse
- Working with change
About Maria
Maria "Ri" Punt is a BACP-registered counsellor in the United Kingdom with 19 years of practice. She helps people who are wrestling with LGBT concerns, relationship strain, family problems, trauma and abuse, and coping with major life changes. Maria focuses on practical conversation and clearer thinking when people feel stuck or unsure what comes next.
She works in an integrative way, drawing on a range of therapeutic approaches to suit individual needs. Sessions are conversational and aim to identify patterns, feelings and options. Maria encourages people to notice what matters most to them and to test small changes between meetings.
Clients may bring issues linked to sexuality, kink and alternative sexual cultures, polyamory and non-monogamous relationships, or the emotional impact of chronic illness and pain. She also supports people affected by domestic violence, first responder stress, veteran issues, HIV/AIDS and prejudice or discrimination.
Maria pays attention to feelings such as guilt, shame and the struggle to forgive. Her work includes helping carers manage stress and people process post-traumatic stress symptoms. Life purpose is also an area she addresses when people want to reconsider their direction after major change.
Her sessions aim to be straightforward and respectful. People can expect clear talk about goals and next steps. To start, clients complete a short matching questionnaire and arrange their first session.
Approaches that inform online work
Maria works integratively and draws on evidence-based therapeutic techniques to suit the person's needs. One common approach she uses is trauma-informed work, which focuses on stabilising reactions, naming what feels overwhelming and developing ways to manage strong memories or flashbacks. This can help people with post-traumatic stress, abuse recovery or the impact of violence.Another approach often used is relational and attachment-informed work, which looks at how past relationships shape current patterns. That style helps when people want to understand why they repeat behaviours in relationships or struggle with trust and boundaries. Both approaches are practical and aim to produce manageable steps to try between sessions.
Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. The therapist will work with each person to identify goals, preferences and what feels most workable. They will revisit methods as understanding grows so the approach stays aligned with the client's aims.
The original profile does not list specific session formats, so confirm current options before booking. In general, online sessions can make it easier to fit meetings into a busy life, reduce travel time and allow shorter check-ins when needed. Registered or accredited professionals can discuss which format will best match schedule and needs.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Additional focus areas
Experience
19+ years
Listed in
United Kingdom
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of concerns does she support?
She supports people with LGBT concerns, relationship and family problems, trauma and abuse, and coping with life changes. Additional areas include sexuality, kink, polyamory and chronic illness impacts.
How does she approach someone feeling stuck?
She uses an integrative, conversational approach that looks at patterns and practical options. Sessions focus on clarifying feelings, setting small goals and testing changes between meetings.
How much experience does she have?
She has 19 years of practice working as a counsellor in the United Kingdom. That experience includes supporting people with trauma, caregiver stress and sexuality questions.
What credential and location information should I know?
Maria "Ri" Punt is BACP-registered and based in the United Kingdom. The BACP listing is the credential supplied in her profile.
Which languages does she use for sessions?
Sessions are offered in English. International clients are not currently accepted.
What session formats are available?
The original profile does not list explicit formats. Please confirm current session options before booking so you know whether telephone, video or in-person sessions are offered.
How much do sessions cost?
Cost varies with location and sessions use a subscription that can be cancelled at any time. Exact pricing is provided when you check the service details.
How do I begin working with her?
Select the See online therapy options button, complete the short matching questionnaire, and schedule your first session. That starts the process of arranging an initial meeting.
Online talk therapy is not emergency care. If you are in danger, use the crisis numbers.