Understanding Relationship Difficulties

Relationships can be deeply fulfilling—and deeply challenging. Whether you’re struggling with conflict, distance, trust, or communication, it may feel like the same patterns keep repeating, leaving you stuck, hurt, or confused. Relationship counselling can help you to improve how you relate to others.

From a psychodynamic perspective, relationship difficulties are often shaped by unconscious processes developed early in life. How we relate to others is closely linked to how we first learned to attach, trust, express needs, or protect ourselves emotionally. These patterns can persist into adult relationships, often without us realising why we feel or behave the way we do.

Paul Gledhill - Psychodynamic Therapist. Anxiety Counselling. Trauma Counselling. Relationship Counselling. Military Counselling. Police Counselling.

How Relationship Counselling Can Help

Psychodynamic counselling offers a safe, confidential space to explore the emotional dynamics at the heart of your relationship challenges. The aim is not to give advice or quick fixes, but to understand what’s happening at a deeper level—so that change becomes possible and lasting.

Counselling can help if you:

  • Feel stuck in the same arguments or dynamics
  • Struggle with intimacy, trust, or emotional closeness
  • Experience anxiety or insecurity in relationships
  • Notice unhealthy patterns repeating from past relationships
  • Want to understand your own role in relationship difficulties
  • Are dealing with the effects of a breakup or loss

Counselling can support you whether you’re currently in a relationship or not. It’s about understanding your inner world and how it shapes the way you relate to others.

What to Expect from Relationship Counselling

I offer a confidential, professional counselling relationship tailored to your pace. Whether we meet online or in person, you’ll have a consistent space to be heard and understood—without judgment or pressure.

Through regular sessions, you’ll begin to develop insight into the unconscious dynamics that may be influencing your relationships—making room for more authentic connection and emotional clarity.

Locations and Availability

Sessions are available:

  • In person – in Chelmsford and Colchester
  • Online – for clients based anywhere in the UK

I also offer a free 15-minute consultation, giving you the chance to ask questions and see whether counselling feels right for you.

Special Rates

Discounted sessions are available for military personnel and veterans.