Alan Williams

Alan Williams does not work from a medical model of diagnosis and prescription. His role is to help people explore the meaning behind their emotions, experiences, relationships, history, thoughts and beliefs so they can find ways to cope and thrive. He is known for showing empathy, compassion and maitri, and his manner is often described as warm and engaging.

He is fundamentally a relationship counsellor, trained in couple and family therapy, who views many difficulties through the lens of relationships and attachment. His clinical approach prioritises connection and understanding within families and partnerships.

Alan is a PACFA Registered Clinical Counsellor and a Certified Imago Therapist. He uses Imago dialogues with couples to repair disconnection, strengthen emotional intimacy, clarify what each partner needs to feel loved and cared for, and support people to ask for what they need in ways that significantly increase the chances of receiving it.

He has a strong practice in grief and loss, including work related to voluntary assisted dying. He also has a particular interest in supporting people and their families when they discover that biological parentage differs from what they were told - for example through adoption, donor conception or other non-paternity events.

Alan clears phobic reactions using a refined tapping technique derived from Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) and the desensitisation component of EMDR. A formal diagnosis of a phobia or anxiety disorder is not required; if a person can identify specific triggers that lead to distress or panic, there is a very good chance the approach can deliver meaningful relief.

He worked for 15 years part-time as a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner and has extensive experience supporting parents, particularly victims of domestic abuse, through mediation about financial settlements and arrangements for their children. When people are in high conflict with a hostile, disturbed or abusive ex-partner, Alan can help them cope, make sense of the dynamics and keep the focus on the best outcomes for their children.

Alan also worked for 18 years part-time for an Employee Assistance Program provider, and his own 38 years of experience as an employee means he can assist with the psychological and relational aspects of workplace life.

Although his profile may list anxiety among areas of expertise because of system tagging, Alan notes that anxiety is often linked with the other issues he works with such as phobias and stress. If anxiety is the primary focus, he suggests people might seek someone who advertises a specific focus on anxiety.

He works only with adult individuals (18+) and couples. If a session outside the standard appointment times is needed, clients are encouraged to ask.