Anxiety Counselling in Portsmouth and Southsea
Anxiety can be exhausting. It might show up as a racing mind that won't switch off, a tight chest before everyday tasks, sleep that won't come, or a constant sense that something bad is about to happen. Whatever shape it takes for you, you don't have to manage it alone — and reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness.
I'm Marion Morris, a BACP registered psychotherapeutic counsellor based in Southsea, Portsmouth. I offer a warm, non-judgemental space to understand your anxiety and begin to feel more like yourself again, in person and online.
Common experiences of anxiety
Anxiety is one of the most common reasons people seek counselling, and it looks different for everyone. You might recognise some of these:
- • Constant worrying or overthinking that feels hard to control
- • Panic attacks — racing heart, breathlessness, dizziness, dread
- • Trouble sleeping or a mind that won't settle at night
- • Avoiding people, places, or situations that feel overwhelming
- • Health anxiety, social anxiety, or anxiety tied to work and performance
- • Feeling on edge, irritable, or unable to relax
How counselling can help
Anxiety is often trying to protect us from something — but its alarm system can become overactive, firing when there's no real danger. In counselling we make space to understand what your anxiety is responding to, rather than just fighting the symptoms. Over time, this understanding can loosen anxiety's grip and help you feel more steady and in control of your own life.
Marion's psychodynamic, trauma-informed approach
I work from a psychodynamic perspective, with training in trauma and attachment. This means we gently explore how past experiences and early relationships may shape the way anxiety shows up for you now, while staying mindful of how distressing experiences affect both body and mind. The pace is always led by you. Nothing is rushed, and you decide what you're ready to talk about.
What to expect in sessions
We begin with a free introductory call so you can see whether it feels like the right fit. Sessions are 50 minutes and cost £50, and can be weekly, fortnightly, or monthly. They take place in a calm, confidential therapy room in Southsea (PO4 9NZ), or by telephone and Zoom — which some people find easier when leaving the house adds to their anxiety. You can read more on the sessions and fees page, or about Marion's background and training.
Further reading
These articles from the blog may resonate if you're living with anxiety: Managing anxiety through the cold, wet, dark days and Fear and anxiety around the threat of war. I also see clients for anxiety from across Portsmouth and Southsea.
If you need urgent help
Counselling is not a crisis or emergency service. If you are struggling to cope right now, or worried about your own safety, please reach out to one of these services — they are there to help, day or night:
- • In an emergency, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.
- • NHS 111 — call 111 and select the mental health option for urgent NHS advice.
- • Samaritans — call 116 123 free, any time, to talk to someone.
- • Shout — text SHOUT to 85258 for free, confidential support by text.
- • Your GP can also discuss treatment options, including medication and NHS talking therapies.
Common questions about anxiety counselling
How much does anxiety counselling cost in Portsmouth?
Individual sessions are £50 for 50 minutes. A free introductory call by telephone or Zoom is offered first, so you can ask questions before booking a paid session.
How many sessions will I need for anxiety?
There is no fixed number. Some people find a handful of sessions helpful, while others prefer longer-term support to explore the roots of their anxiety. We review how things are going together, and you are always in control of how long we work.
Can counselling really help with anxiety?
For many people, yes. Counselling offers a space to understand what your anxiety is responding to, to make sense of the patterns that keep it going, and to develop a different relationship with worry and fear over time. It is not a quick fix, but it can bring lasting change.
What is a psychodynamic, trauma-informed approach?
It means we look gently at how past experiences and early relationships may shape the way anxiety shows up now, while staying mindful of how distressing experiences affect the body and mind. The pace is always led by you, and nothing is forced.
Do you offer online or telephone anxiety counselling?
Yes. Sessions are available in person at the Southsea practice, or by telephone and Zoom. Remote sessions can feel more comfortable if leaving the house adds to your anxiety, and evening appointments are available.
What if my anxiety feels like a crisis?
Counselling is not an emergency service. If you are in crisis or worried about your safety, please use the urgent support options listed on this page — including NHS 111, Samaritans on 116 123, or 999 in an emergency.
Ready to Take the First Step?
It's completely normal to feel nervous about reaching out. There's no pressure — you can ask questions, share what's on your mind, or simply see if it feels right. Your first session is a chance to meet me and decide if my approach works for you.
Get in TouchOr call me directly on 07864 281701
✓ Free introductory call · ✓ BACP registered · ✓ Confidential