Joanna Ridgeway

Joanna Ridgeway is an ACA counsellor who helps people struggling with stress, anxiety, relationship strain, trauma and low self-esteem. She writes plainly and listens closely, aiming to make the first step feel manageable. Her style suits people who want a calm, steady space to work through difficult feelings.

Joanna keeps sessions straightforward and practical. She asks about what matters most to the client and focuses on small, achievable changes. Conversations cover thoughts, behaviour and emotions, and may include simple strategies to reduce anxiety or lift mood.

Her approach is influenced by attachment-based work and client-centred principles. That means attention to how early relationships shape current reactions, and a focus on your perspectives and goals. Joanna also uses techniques from cognitive behavioural therapy to address unhelpful thinking patterns.

Joanna has 14 years of experience in the field and has supported people facing trauma, abuse and depression. She also works with concerns such as abandonment, communication problems, codependency and caregiver stress. Her background includes helping people with chronic illness, body image and the challenges of ageing.

People who choose Joanna can expect respectful listening and practical next steps. She encourages collaboration on goals and checks in about progress. If you want clear, grounded support for anxiety, relationship issues or low mood, Joanna can help you begin the process.

How Joanna's approaches translate to online work

Attachment-Based Therapy pays attention to how early relationships influence current reactions and closeness with others; it helps people understand patterns that affect stress and relationships. Client-Centred Therapy focuses on the client's perspective and goals, offering empathetic listening and space to make decisions at the client's pace. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) targets unhelpful thoughts and habits, using straightforward exercises to shift thinking and reduce anxiety or low mood.

Finding the right approach is part of the process. Joanna will work with the client to decide which combination of methods fits best for their needs and goals. That collaborative discussion helps shape goals, homework and the pace of work so it suits the person in front of her.

If you are considering online sessions, confirm the available session formats before booking as the biography does not list them. Online work can make sessions easier to fit into a busy week, allow shorter check-ins when needed, and reduce travel time. For people balancing caregiving, health issues or work, these practical benefits often make consistent therapy more achievable.