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Headshot of Matthew Frener, MBACP, MNCPS Acc

My Approach

​Choosing to begin therapy is a courageous step and it’s important to know that you are not alone. That’s why I work collaboratively with my clients, walking alongside them as we explore the patterns that shape their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. By understanding these patterns, we can begin to create meaningful change with the hope of unearthing the authentic self. Taking a holistic outlook, I believe it’s essential to consider all aspects of your life—mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual. Together, we’ll address these interconnected areas, helping you break free from unhelpful cycles and build a foundation where you can truly thrive.​  

 

Tailoring my methods to suit the specific needs of each client, I use an integration of various modalities. I firmly believe that therapy should adapt to the individual, not the other way around—there is no "one size fits all" solution. Every client brings a unique set of experiences, and to best support them, I draw on a range of therapeutic principles. While I am rooted in relational and developmental theories, I respond to clients with intuition, empathy, and compassion, incorporating elements of person-centred therapy, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Attachment theory, and more.​​

At the heart of my practice is the therapeutic relationship—a connection built on trust, understanding, and mutual respect. I deeply value the bond between therapist and client, as it can provide the foundation for meaningful growth and healing. My aim is to create a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where you can explore the challenges you’re facing with honesty and openness. Research consistently shows that a strong, supportive therapeutic relationship is key to achieving positive outcomes. Likewise, our ability to form meaningful, reciprocal connections with others is essential to our emotional well-being and resilience. That’s why I take a relational approach, focusing on building a genuine connection that empowers you to navigate life’s challenges and foster healthier relationships with yourself and others.​​ ​

 

Mission

To provide a compassionate, safe and secure space where clients can explore their challenges, break free from unhelpful patterns, and cultivate self-compassion for their authentic selves. 

Anti-Oppresive Practice

With all of the uncertainty and everything going on in the current climate, in addition to my lived experience of facing adversity, it is essential to express my commitment to anti-oppressive practice. I strive to ensure that sessions with me are an inclusive and empowering space for all individuals, by acknowledging the ways in which systemic inequalities—such as racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, classism, and ableism—impact mental health and well-being.

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In my practice, this means:

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  • Cultural Awareness & Sensitivity: Recognising the influence of identity, culture, and social context in your experiences.

  • Power Dynamics & Collaboration: Valuing your lived experience and fostering an equal, respectful therapeutic relationship.

  • Trauma-Informed & Intersectional Care: Understanding how oppression and trauma intersect, shaping emotions, relationships, and coping mechanisms.

  • Advocacy & Social Justice: Supporting you in navigating societal challenges while working towards personal and collective healing.

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Therapy should be a space where all aspects of your identity are acknowledged and validated. I strive to provide an environment where you will feel heard, respected and empowered to explore your experiences without fear of judgment and prejudice.

A bit about me

Before becoming a therapist, I spent several years working in the theatre and arts sector. My own experience of seeking help for personal challenges sparked my passion for therapy and profoundly shaped the way I work. I frequently encourage my clients to engage with creative outlets in any form, as these can be therapeutic in their own right. ​

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​​Having begun my career as a Counsellor at one of London’s leading rehabilitation centres, supporting individuals recovering from addictions and eating disorders, my role included working one-to-one with clients, facilitating therapeutic groups and workshops, and involving families in the recovery process through regular meetings. During this time, I also became a qualified Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) Practitioner and facilitated weekly skills groups to help clients build practical tools for emotional regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness and mindfulness. ​​

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Currently, I hold a Level 6 Diploma in Integrative Psychotherapeutic Counselling and am pursuing an MSc in Integrative Psychotherapy, along with accreditation from the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP). As a Registered Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy and an Advanced Practitioner Member of Addiction Professionals, I am dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of ethical practice and ongoing professional development.

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Having had the privilege of working with clients from diverse backgrounds, I have supported them through challenges such as: addictions, eating disorders (such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia, and ARFID), personality disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, sexuality and identity issues, sex and porn addiction, self-harm, inner-child work, low self-worth, relational difficulties, and attachment trauma.

Qualifications and Training

  • Level 6 - Diploma Integrative Psychotherapeutic Counselling (Metanoia Institute) and working towards Level 7 - MSc Integrative Psychotherapy (Metanoia Institute) 

  • BPS Approved Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) Full Practitioner

  • Diploma in Practitioner Skills for Eating Disorders (National Centre for Eating Disorders)

  • Somatic Trauma Therapy with Babette Rothschild (on-going)

  • Certificate in Couple's Counselling 

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