Claire Downs

Claire Downs is a counsellor with PACFA who draws on long experience in healthcare to support people facing stress, anxiety and low self-esteem. She speaks plainly and directly, and offers an accepting space for people who want change. Claire names her own lived experience of anxiety and depression as part of how she understands what clients bring to sessions.

She focuses on helping people build self-compassion and use their existing strengths to meet life’s challenges. Claire believes the person in front of her is the expert on their story, and she works collaboratively rather than telling people what to do. Sessions aim to be practical and grounded, with clear steps people can use between meetings.

Claire has spent many years working across healthcare settings and brings that background to her counselling. She draws on evidence-based therapeutic techniques to guide conversations about mood, coping and relationship concerns. Her work often addresses compassion fatigue, coping with life changes, and the emotional strain of caregiving.

People who come for help with depression or anxiety can expect straightforward support that focuses on realistic goals. Claire also supports concerns such as body image, abandonment, and difficulties with communication and commitment. She is based in Australia and offers counselling in English.

To begin, prospective clients use the site’s Start Therapy button to complete a short matching questionnaire. Claire then helps people book sessions in line with her availability and the subscription arrangements provided by the service.

Approaches that guide online counselling

Claire uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques to shape conversations and practical work. One approach focuses on cultivating self-compassion, helping people turn self-criticism into kinder, more helpful self-talk and reducing stress and depressive thoughts. Another common strand is skills-based coping work, which teaches short strategies for managing anxiety, regulating mood and handling difficult moments throughout the day.

Finding the right approach is part of the process and Claire works with each person to decide what fits best. She discusses goals, preferences and everyday demands, and adjusts techniques so they are useful and realistic for the individual. The relationship is collaborative rather than prescriptive.

The original profile does not list specific session formats, so please confirm the available online options before booking. Many people find online counselling helps fit sessions around work or caregiving, makes it easier to maintain regular appointments, and allows shorter check-ins when needed. Claire aims to make sessions practical so they slot into everyday life and support steady progress.