Matt James
Counselling

People come to counselling for many reasons. It can feel daunting at first or a relief to finally have space to talk. Whether you know what you want to work through or you’re unsure where to start, we’ll explore it together at your pace.I offer a confidential, supportive space to help you understand your emotions, thoughts and patterns, with therapy shaped around what feels most relevant to you. My work sees you as a whole person, mind, body and experience.I first worked as a personal trainer, helping people build strength and confidence through movement. Over time I realised true wellbeing also includes our emotional and psychological world. This understanding led me to retrain as a counsellor, supporting others to find balance, clarity and self-understanding.My approach is warm, respectful and collaborative, focused on helping you feel seen, supported and capable of change.

What I Offer

I offer one-to-one therapy sessions in Taunton Somerset, as well as online sessions if you prefer to meet from home.You’re also welcome to book a free 15-minute introductory call, a chance for you to ask questions, get a feel for how I work, and see if therapy feels right for you.Counselling sessions are available in Taunton, Ilminster, and online.If you’d like to ask a question or book an introductory call, you can do so here:

• Send an email

The Integrated RegulationMethod

When Talking Alone Isn’t Enough

You might know what you want to change but sitting and talking about it hasn’t shifted things.You overthink.
You intellectualise.
You understand yourself, yet nothing really changes.This is where a different approach can work better.

A Practical, Body-Led Way to Change

This service combines physical training and counselling in one structured 90-minute session.We start with the body because how you think, feel, and behave is strongly influences by your nervous system.Movement helps lower defences, reduce stress, and bring you into the present moment. It creates the conditions where real change becomes possible, without forcing anything.Then, once you’re grounded and emotionally available, we use counselling to work through the thoughts, patterns, and challenges that actually matter in your life.

Why This Works Better Than Talking Alone

When you’re anxious, shut down, or overwhelmed, talking can feel hard, or go nowhere.By using movement first:- Conversations feel more natural and honest- Emotions are easier to access and understand- Insights land more deeply- Change feels real, not just intellectualThis isn’t about pushing harder.
It’s about working with how humans actually function.

How the Session Works

90 minutes. Clear structure.- 45 minutes of tailored physical training.- Building strength, confidence, and regulation, suitable for any level.- Short transition to settle the body so you’re calm, present, and focused.- 45 minutes of Counselling - practical, supportive conversations that lead to real change.You stay in control the entire time. Nothing is forced. Everything is intentional.

Who This Is For

This is ideal if you:- Struggle with traditional talking therapy- Feel stuck despite “knowing better”- Want to improve mental and physical health together- Feel disconnected from your body- Don’t know where to start but know something needs to changeYou don’t need to be fit.
You don’t need to have the right words.
You just need to be willing to start.

A More Grounded Way Forward

This approach helps change happen from the inside out - physically, mentally, and emotionally.If you want something practical, structured, and highly effective, not just more talking then this is for you.These sessions are held exclusively at Synergy Gym in Ilminster.If you’d like to ask a question or book an introductory call, you can do so here:

• Send an email