Steve Langstaff

Stephen Langstaff is a qualified counsellor and psychotherapist registered and accredited with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). He works within The Awareness Centre’s NHS Counselling Service in Lambeth and has a Diploma in Counselling, as well as a combined Certificate in Counselling and Counselling Theory. Stephen works integratively with clients, drawing on a variety of therapeutic modalities to establish a way of working that suits each individual’s needs and experiences. He also incorporates Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) principles where appropriate. Stephen has extensive experience working across mental health and wellbeing services, supporting clients with a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties.

Stephen provides a warm, empathic, and supportive space for clients while holding a strong belief in the importance of the therapeutic relationship between client and counsellor. He believes that developing trust and safety within the therapeutic relationship is key to helping clients feel comfortable exploring sensitive and distressing experiences. Stephen works collaboratively with clients to help them process their struggles, internal conflicts, and thought patterns while working towards improved wellbeing. His integrative approach allows him to explore what clients would most benefit from, supporting them in developing greater self-awareness and finding ways to navigate challenges that feel meaningful and appropriate for them.

Before becoming a counsellor, Stephen worked in staff management and developed a particular interest in workplace issues and organisational behaviour. Through this experience, he observed the strong links between workplace stress, confidence, anxiety, self-esteem, anger, and the impact these difficulties can have beyond professional life. This understanding inspired him to train as a counsellor and support people in exploring wellbeing issues, workplace challenges, bullying, fear, and intimidation. Stephen also has a particular interest in attachment, including how people relate and connect with others, and the influence of early family relationships on current relationship patterns. He has gained extensive experience working within services including The Samaritans, Wandsworth Bereavement, NHS counselling services, and community counselling settings, providing both short- and longer-term support. Stephen has worked with diverse client groups and a broad range of presenting issues, including cultural, sexual, and racial identity, learning difficulties, disability, and addictive behaviours. He is committed to providing ethical, compassionate, and respectful support that helps clients better understand themselves and move towards positive change.