Derek Flint - Therapeutic Counselling
Addiction Therapy & Mental Health
Self-compassion is the antidote to toxic shame
I’m Derek Flint, an integrative counsellor and psychotherapist. I work with people who are stuck, whether that’s in how they feel, experiences they haven’t been able to move on from, or behaviours they keep repeating but don’t fully understand.
Together, we start to make sense of what’s going on and find a way forward. This might relate to anxiety, low mood, alcohol or drug addiction, pornography use, or difficulties in relationships.
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I keep things straightforward and down to earth. You don’t need to have the right words or a clear explanation of what’s wrong. Most people don’t. We work it out together.
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​From my own life experience, I know things don’t always go to plan. That helps me understand how difficult things can be, but also that change is possible with the right support.
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I have lived experience of addiction & the benefits of recovery which shapes how I work. You don’t need to explain everything from scratch or feel judged - we start from where you are & where you want to get to, and take it from there.
I help you to achieve this and provide the opportunity for you to make the changes you are looking for. You don't have to stay stuck.
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When we understand why we do what we do, we can start creating real, lasting change that works for you.
How I Work
My approach is based on understanding what’s going on beneath the surface, rather than trying to fix things too quickly or simply stopping. If it were that simple, you’d likely have changed it already.
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What you’re doing isn’t always the problem. Often, it’s a solution that made sense at some point and helped in some way. That might include coping with stress, managing difficult emotions, or dealing with experiences that haven’t been fully processed.
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When we take the time to notice this, and get insight about it, things start to shift. You’re not just trying to stop a behaviour. You’re understanding it, which makes change feel more natural and realistic.
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I work in a way that is:
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straightforward and down-to-earth
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non-judgemental
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focused on changing what actually matters to you
Some sessions might focus on what’s happening right now. Others might explore patterns that go further back. There’s no fixed formula. We work at a pace that feels manageable and focused on your goals.
What I Help With
I work with a range of issues, including:
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Anxiety and overthinking
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Low mood and depression
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Addiction and substance use
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Pornography use and compulsive sexual behaviour
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Helping men & their mental health
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Feeling stuck or unsure what needs to change
Sometimes people come with a clear goal. Other times, it’s more a sense that something isn’t working. Both are completely fine.
What It’s Like to Work With Me
People often say they feel able to talk openly without being judged or feeling criticised. They say I am compassionate and relatable so they can trust me.
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You won’t be told what to do or pushed into change before you’re ready. At the same time, I won’t just sit back and nod. I’ll help you notice patterns, challenge things where needed, and keep things moving in a way that feels useful.
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The aim is for you to leave sessions with a clearer understanding of yourself, and a sense that things are starting to shift in a way that works for you.
My Approach
I work integratively, which means I draw on different approaches depending on what’s helpful for you. This can include:
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relational and attachment-based work
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solution-focused approaches
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single session therapy
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exploring patterns in thoughts, emotions, and behaviour
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There’s no one model that works for everyone. The focus is always on what helps you make sense of your experience and move forward.
Qualifications and Experience
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Level 5 Diploma in Sex Addiction Individuals & Couples (CPCAB)
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Level 4 Diploma in Integrative Therapeutic Counselling (CPCAB)
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Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Skills (CPCAB)
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Level 2 Introduction to Counselling Skills (CPCAB)
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BSc (Hons) Social Science
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STOPSO Compassion Focused Risk Aware 1-to-1 (COFRA 121) Programme for Managing Sexual Risk
Professional Memberships
Membership of PSA Registered professional bodies reflects my training, experience, and commitment to safe, ethical practice. It means I’m accountable to recognised standards, helping ensure a safe, confidential space for clients.
Next Step
If you’re considering therapy, the next step is usually a simple conversation to see if it feels like the right fit. If you want to read more check out the blog section. If you’re thinking about getting support, you don’t have to figure it all out first.
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You can explore related areas here:
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You don’t need to commit to anything long-term. We can talk about what’s going on, what you’re looking for, and how I might be able to help.
What Brings You Here?
You do not need to have everything figured out before reaching out. Choose what you feel matches best and we can take it from there.
 Support with problem porn use or sexual activity Helping overcome unwanted behaviour |  Stress, anxiety & low mood Therapy for mental health & wellbeing |  Problem Drug Use & Addiction Overcoming substance use |
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 Supporting change in sexual activity Therapy for Sex Addiction |  Alcohol and Substance Use Support for addiction, alcohol and drug misue |  Support changing financial domination Findom Therapy |