David Pender is a therapist in London and online
What attracted you to become a therapist?
I embarked on the journey to become a therapist, stemming from a deep desire to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. This decision was rooted in personal lived experiences with challenges like anxiety and low self-esteem. These struggles can cultivate profound empathy and understanding, making it possible to connect with others on a deeper level. The experience of overcoming such hurdles often inspires a passion to support others in navigating their paths toward healing and self-discovery. Witnessing the transformation in someone who reclaims their confidence and sense of self can be incredibly rewarding, fueling the commitment to assist.
This experience allows for genuine relatability, creating a safe and compassionate space for my clients to open up about their challenges. The opportunity to guide others through their journey while drawing on professional expertise and personal understanding can be deeply fulfilling for both client and therapist.
In many ways, becoming a therapist is not just a career; it’s a way to turn personal growth into a force for positive change in the lives of others.
Where did you train?
I initially trained in an evening class underwritten by Cpcab, developing my person-centred knowledge. I passed my Level 3 and became eligible to enter the Open University three years later.
I passed my exams and gained a BA Hons. For potential clients wanting to know more. Please visit my website at www.anxietycounsellingsupport.co.uk
Can you tell us about the type of therapy you practise?
I practice person-centred therapy, also known as client-centred or Rogerian therapy, which is a humanistic approach to counselling developed by Carl Rogers.
At its core, it emphasises the importance of creating a supportive, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment where individuals feel safe to explore their thoughts and emotions.
Rather than directing the course of therapy, I act as a compassionate guide, believing that clients have the inner resources to resolve their issues and achieve personal growth.
In addition, I am an integrative counsellor. Integrative counselling is an adaptable and holistic approach to therapy that combines techniques and principles from different therapeutic models. Rather than adhering to a single framework, I fit integration to each client's unique needs, preferences, and goals. This flexibility allows for a more personalised and comprehensive therapeutic experience, addressing the multifaceted nature of human challenges.
Core therapeutic models often integrated include person-centred therapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), and psychodynamic approaches. The ultimate goal is to empower clients, to foster self-awareness, and facilitate growth by drawing from a toolbox of strategies that best resonate with the individual.
How does the way you work help with symptoms of anxiety?
My anxiety practice provides a structured, supportive framework to address general anxiety by helping individuals manage overwhelming thoughts, cultivate calm, and build coping mechanisms.
For those with social anxiety, counselling can build confidence in social interactions through exposure practice, mindset shifts, or improving communication skills. Tackling procrastination strategies like breaking tasks into smaller steps, setting achievable goals, and focusing on progress rather than perfection.
For perfectionism, my practice might encourage acceptance of imperfection and highlight the importance of learning from mistakes rather than avoiding them.
When it comes to stress, I may incorporate relaxation techniques such as mindfulness, breathing exercises, or time management methods.
Finally, I support individuals to overcome low self-esteem by promoting self-compassion, celebrating small wins, and reinforcing personal growth.
I offer a multi-dimensional path towards resilience and self-improvement, addressing these challenges with care and intentionality.
What sort of people do you usually see?
I work with any age group above 18 years of age
Have you noticed any recent mental health trends or wider changes in attitude?
The Covid-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on younger people, leading to increased fear and anxiety for several reasons:
1. Social isolation: Lockdowns and restrictions disrupted social connections, leaving many young people lonely and unsupported. This isolation amplified feelings of helplessness and fear.
2. Uncertainty about the future: The pandemic created uncertainty about education, career prospects, and personal goals. Many young people felt their plans were derailed, leading to heightened anxiety.
3. Health concerns: Fear of infection for themselves and their loved ones contributed to a pervasive sense of vulnerability.
4. Increased screen time: As people spend more time online, exposure to distressing news and social media comparisons intensifies feelings of inadequacy and fear.
5. Economic instability: Financial worries, personal or within their families, added to the stress and fear of an uncertain future.
6. Mental health challenges: Pre-existing mental health issues were exacerbated, and new ones emerged due to the stressors of the pandemic.
These factors combined to create a challenging environment for younger people, leaving lasting effects on their mental wellbeing.
What do you like about being a therapist?
I like helping individuals overcome challenges; witnessing their growth can be incredibly rewarding.
Forming meaningful, trust-based relationships with clients is enriching. Each client’s journey provides unique insights, fostering continuous personal and professional development.
What is less pleasant?
Finding enough clients to maintain stable practice
What books have been important to you in terms of your professional and personal development? Do you ever recommend books to clients?
I recommend books by Mick Cooper and John McCloud. I also subscribe to Audible.
You are a therapist in London. What can you share with us about seeing clients in this area?
Anxiety treatment is popular in London for several reasons. It's a high-stress environment and many people live fast-paced lifestyles.
What’s your consultation room like?
I am a home-based therapist.
What do you wish people knew about therapy?
Therapy is for everyone: Therapy is not just for those in crisis. Anyone can benefit from the self-reflection, growth, and support I provide.
It's a collaborative process: Therapy is not about being "fixed" by someone else; it's a partnership where the client and therapist work together toward meaningful change.
It's not a weakness to seek help: On the contrary, reaching out shows courage and a desire to take control of one's mental wellbeing.
Progress takes time: Mental and emotional healing requires patience and consistency.
Therapists are human too: Though trained professionals, therapists approach each person with empathy and respect, recognising the uniqueness of their story.
Small changes have big effects: Even subtle shifts in thinking or behaviour can ripple outward into more profound transformations over time.
What did you learn about yourself in therapy?
Therapy often leads to profound insights about oneself. Through my therapeutic journey, I've discovered things like:
Self-awareness is the process of understanding one's thoughts, feelings, and behaviours and how they shape one's interactions with others.
Triggers and patterns: Identifying the things that provoke certain emotions or actions and recognising recurring patterns that may not serve me well.
Inner strength: Uncovering resilience and coping skills I didn’t realise I had, empowering me to face challenges more confidently.
Needs and boundaries: I am learning to prioritise my own needs and establish healthy boundaries in relationships.
Compassion for myself: Embracing self-compassion and letting go of harsh self-criticism has transformed my self-esteem.
The value of vulnerability: Realising that opening up and being honest with yourself and others can lead to growth and connection.
