Kasia Maciągowska dr Kasia
— a bilingual Counselling Psychologist with over 10 years of experience in helping people navigate life’s challenges and build more fulfilling lives.

Hi, I’m
Katarzyna Maciągowska doctor Kasia
a bilingual Counselling Psychologist with over 10 years of experience in helping people navigate life’s challenges and build more fulfilling lives.


I’ve had the privilege of working in various settings – from schools, charities and private clinics to inpatient wards and NHS outpatient services.
Most recently, I was based at the Priory Wellbeing Centre in London, supporting people from all walks of life — including high-pressure professionals like lawyers, consultants, media workers and entrepreneurs. It was here that I deepened my work with burnout, addiction, ADHD and stress-related difficulties.
Now, I’m excited to welcome clients to my own online therapy practice — accessible from wherever you are.
I work with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, ADHD, burnout, relationship struggles, addictions, eating disorders, and more. My approach is holistic, filled with compassion, flexible, and free from unnecessary jargon. I tailor each session to you, because there’s no one-size-fits-all in therapy.
I see every challenge as a chance for growth. So if you’re feeling stuck, searching for answers, or thinking that no-one can help you — I’d be honoured to support you, wherever you are.
Get in touch for a free 30 min consultation today.
There’s no better time than now.
About Me
How I work:
Individual therapy
I take a pluralistic approach to therapy. But what does that really mean?
Research shows that most evidence-based psychological therapies work. However, not every approach will be the right fit for you. It’s like trying on clothes— one size doesn’t fit all. Each of us is unique, and we all deserve a personalised approach that suits our individual needs.
That’s why I use a range of evidence-based therapies, tailoring each session to fit your unique needs. We’ll keep things flexible, check in along the way, and tweak what’s needed. Because let’s be honest: if it’s not helping, what are we even doing?
The therapies I often draw from are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Person-Centered Therapy. But above all, my goal is to create a welcoming space where you can safely explore yourself and your experiences.
Please reach out, I offer a 30minute free online consultation.
Couples therapy
I am currently training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT), developed by Dr. Sue Johnson. This approach helps couples enhance their relationship by addressing emotional responses and attachment needs.
EFCT focuses on identifying and changing negative interaction patterns, enabling partners to better understand and respond to each other’s emotional needs. The goal is to strengthen the emotional bond, increase intimacy, and create a secure, supportive relationship.
Backed by extensive research, EFCT is one of the most evidence-based and effective models of couples therapy.
Psychoeducational workshops
I am passionate about delivering psychoeducational workshops designed to improve the quality of life for my clients. While not everyone may be ready for individual therapy, many can benefit from learning practical knowledge and tools that can be applied in everyday life.
When it comes to workshop content, I consider individual client requests, feel free to tell me what you need.
About Me
Qualifications
Doctorate in Counselling
Psychology
(2018)
The University of Manchester
I completed my professional Doctorate in Counselling Psychology in 2018 at The
University of Manchester.
The therapeutic approaches I have trained in and draw upon in my practice include:
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Person-Centred Therapy
- Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT)
- Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)
- Dialectical Behaviour Therapy Skills Training (DBT Skills)
My doctoral research explored the mental health challenges faced by Polish university students living in the UK, with a particular focus on barriers to accessing psychological support and how services could become more inclusive and responsive to their needs.
NCFE Level 3 Diploma in Counselling Skills
(2014)
North Lindsey College
This one-year course introduced me to the core concepts of psychological counselling, integrating cognitive-behavioural, psychodynamic, and person-centred approaches. It provided a solid foundation for my subsequent doctoral training.
BSc Hons Psychology
(2012)
The University of Liverpool
During my undergraduate studies, I developed a strong foundation in key psychological theories and began gaining experience in both academic research and clinical practice. My research project was awarded a First, as was my overall degree.
Additional Workshops & Specialist Training
- Mindfulness and Interpersonal Neurobiology in Clinical Practice – Jon Kabat-Zinn & Dan Siegel (2025)
- Working with Core Beliefs: “I’m Never Good Enough” – NICABM (2025)
- Changing the ADHD Brain: Moving Beyond Medication – David Nowell (2024)
- Using Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) for Depression – Paul Gilbert (2022)
- CFT for Anxiety – Laura Silberstein-Tirch & Dennis Tirch (2021)
- Compassionate Mind Training: Working with the Inner Critic – Paul Gilbert (2020)
- DBT Skills Training – The Priory (2017)
- Mindfulness for Therapists: STILL YOU 8-Week MBSR Course – Patrick Rafferty (2016)
Current Ongoing Training
- Specialist support for Adults with ADHD
- Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy
Academic Conferences
- International School Psychology Association (ISPA) Conference – Manchester, 2017
- British Psychological Society: Division of Counselling Psychology Annual Conference – Harrogate, 2017
Academic Publications
- Maciagowska, K. (2019). Mental health, coping strategies and help-seeking behaviours among Polish university students in the UK. Doctoral thesis, University of Manchester. Read here
- Winter, L., Maciagowska, K., Mangan, D., & Toor, N. (2018). Inequality and wellbeing in higher education: A call for action. University and College Counselling, 6(2), 22–27.
- Maciagowska, K., & Hanley, T. (2017). What is known about the mental health needs of post-EU accession Polish immigrants in the UK? A systematic review. International Journal of Culture and Mental Health, 11(2), 220–235. https://doi.org/10.1080/17542863.2017.1358755
Fees
I offer therapy sessions in both Polish and English.
Below you’ll find details about session fees:
Sessions
Individual
therapy
£90
per 50 minute session
Couples
therapy
£ 100
per 50 minute session
*Longer sessions available upon request.
Discounts
Booking a package
of 10 sessions
10% discount
Booking a package
of 20 sessions
15% discount
Students – please get in touch for a discount.
Workshops and Corporate Consultations
Fees for workshops, training sessions, or consultations for organisations are set individually—feel free to contact me to discuss your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How is therapy different from talking to a friend?
While talking to a friend can be comforting and important, therapy is a professional process designed to help you better understand yourself and work through emotional difficulties. A therapist brings experience and training in supporting people with a wide range of challenges and offers a safe, non-judgemental space for deep reflection and meaningful change
2. What does it mean that you work pluralistically?
As a psychologist and therapist, I draw from a range of therapeutic approaches to suit your individual needs. My work combines elements of cognitive-behavioural therapy, therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and other well-established methods.This flexible way of working means we can find the approach that best fits your unique situation.
3. Is therapy effective?
Yes, it is. Modern research shows that psychological therapy is highly effective in helping people cope with emotional and mental health difficulties. Therapy supports you not only in understanding the roots of your struggles but also in making lasting changes that can improve your overall quality of life.
4. How long does therapy last?
Therapy is a highly individual process. It depends on your goals and what you’re bringing to therapy. Sometimes just a few sessions can bring relief, while deeper issues may take longer to explore. We’ll move at your pace, and together we’ll decide what feels right for
5. Do I have to talk about everything I feel?
No, not at all. You don’t have to share anything you’re not ready to talk about. Therapy is your space, and you’re in control of what you choose to bring. My role is to offer a warm,respectful environment where you feel safe and supported, in your own time.
6. Is therapy confidential?
Yes, your privacy is very important to me, and I’ll always prioritise your well-being. What we discuss is kept confidential and protected by law. The only exceptions are rare situations where there’s a risk of serious harm, suspected abuse, or a legal obligation like a court order. If that ever happens, I’ll do my best to involve you and support you everystep of the way.
7. Is therapy only for people with serious problems?
Not at all. Therapy is for anyone who wants to understand themselves better, improve their wellbeing, or navigate life’s challenges more effectively. You don’t have to be in crisis — therapy can support everyday struggles and help you live a more fulfilled and balanced life.
8. How can I prepare for the first session? Just bring yourself as you are. There’s no need to worry
Just bring yourself as you are. There’s no need to worry about saying the “right” thing. The first session is about getting to know each other, talking about what’s brought you here, and seeing how we might work together. You’re welcome to think about your goals, but it’s perfectly fine if you’re not sure yet — we’ll take things step by step.
9. What does the therapeutic process look like? What can I expect?
Before we begin regular therapy sessions, I’ll invite you to a free initial consultation. This is a brief phone or online meeting (around 30 minutes) where we can get to know each other a little, talk about what’s brought you to seek support, and see whether my approach feels like a good fit for your needs. Sometimes, if I believe another form of support may be more appropriate for your situation, I may offer alternative suggestions. I understand that taking the first step can feel daunting – that’s why I aim to create a sense of safety and ease from the very beginning.
Before your first full session, I’ll ask you to complete a few short questionnaires. These help us gain a clearer picture of your situation and serve as a starting point for our work together. They can also be useful for tracking your progress and the effectiveness of therapy as we go along.
In the initial sessions, we’ll focus on building our relationship, setting goals, and developing a shared understanding of what you’re struggling with. Therapy is a dynamic, collaborative process – we’ll shape the direction of our work together, adapting it to what works best for you and aligns with your values and pace.
Roughly every six sessions, we’ll pause for a therapy review. This is a chance to reflect on the goals we set, complete a few brief questionnaires again, and talk about how you’re experiencing the process so far. These reviews help ensure that our work remains meaningful and effective for you.
At times, I may suggest simple exercises or reflections to try between sessions. These “home practices” are designed to help extend the therapeutic process into your everyday life and deepen the changes that begin during our time together.
I bring to this work my full presence, professional commitment, and care. At the same time, your own involvement is essential to the outcomes of therapy. This is a shared journey: you bring your openness, effort, and willingness, and I bring my knowledge, experience, and attention.
Eventually – when it feels right and you’re gaining a stronger sense of self-understanding and inner resources – we’ll begin preparing to bring therapy to a close. Ending therapy is an important phase that deserves care and reflection. Goodbyes can be emotional, so we aim for this transition to be thoughtful, planned, and steady – with clarity about where been and what’s ahead.
You don’t need to have it all figured out to begin.
You’re welcome just as you are – that’s where we’ll start.
10. What if I don’t feel comfortable in therapy?
It’s completely natural to feel unsure or nervous at first. Therapy is a space where we can explore those feelings together. If at any point something doesn’t feel quite right, we can about it and adjust our approach. Your comfort and sense of safety are always my priority.
11. Do I need to attend regular sessions?
I usually recommend weekly or fortnightly sessions to keep the process consistent and effective. That said, the pace and structure of therapy are always tailored to you.
12. Can I stop therapy if I feel I no longer need it?
Of course. Therapy is here to support you in achieving your goals. If you feel you’ve reached a point where you’re ready to move on, we can bring the process to a close. And you’re always welcome to return if you’d like to continue later on.
13. How do I book a session?
You can get in touch with me through the contact form on my website, via email, or by phone — whichever you prefer. I’m happy to answer any questions you might have and find a time that works for you.
If there’s anything else you’d like to know or talk through, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to help.
14. What if your values are different to mine?
That’s a very important question – and it’s completely understandable that you might be wondering about it.
As a psychologist and therapist, I am committed to professionalism and to deeply respecting diversity in all its forms. Therapy isn’t about my personal values – it’s aboutyours.
Even if our personal beliefs or backgrounds differ, my role is never to judge or tell you how to live your life. There’s no one “right” way to live – therapy isn’t a set of instructions, but a space for thoughtful exploration of what matters to you, what works for you, and how you can live in a way that feels authentic and true to yourself.
Rather than offering fixed answers, I’m here to support you in finding your own. If I suggest a certain approach or technique, you’re always free to take it, leave it, or discuss it with me further. At times, I may share psychological insights or research about what supports mental health and wellbeing – but never to push a particular lifestyle or worldview.
Your values, choices, and identity are the starting point for our work – not something to be challenged or debated.
To book a free consultation, a single session, or a package of sessions, please get in touch via email.
I respond to messages on a regular basis
I do my best to answer calls as they come in—if I’m unavailable, I’ll be happy to call you
back.
Contact form:
In Crisis?
You Are Not Alone.
If you’re struggling with overwhelming thoughts or feelings, or thinking about harming yourself — private practice therapy might not be the right choice. But, please know that help is available, right now, and you’re not alone.
Here are free, confidential helplines available 24/7, where trained professionals are ready to listen and support you.
UK Helplines – Open 24/7
Samaritans – 116 123
A free, confidential support line for anyone in emotional distress or at risk of suicide. Available 24/7.
https://www.samaritans.org/
Shout – Text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258
A free, confidential text service for anyone in crisis. If you’re struggling to cope, a trained volunteer will respond via text.
https://www.giveusashout.org/
NHS 111
– Option 2 for Mental Health (in many areas) For urgent mental health support. Local NHS mental health teams are often available directly through 111, 24/7.
https://www.giveusashout.org/
Childline – 0800 1111
For children and young people under 19. Free, confidential, and available anytime.
https://www.childline.org.uk/
Papyrus HOPELINE247 – 0800 068 4141
For people under 35 experiencing suicidal thoughts, or anyone worried about a young person. Text and email support also available.
https://www.papyrus-uk.org/