About Me

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Michael Chesterman

UKCP Trainee Psychotherapist

Liverpool-based US expat and UKCP trainee psychotherapist specializing in Transactional Analysis. My ecological lens explores how we relate to ourselves, others, and nature: integrating multiple approaches to meet your unique needs. Over 12 years of cross-cultural experience, navigating my own belonging, has deepened my respect for faith and lived experience as life’s compass. Working with a variety of people in different contexts revealed healing’s truth: change grows through presence, not solutions. This guides my work with recovery and personal struggles alike. I desire to offer that same non-judgmental space to my clients. Though rooted in Christian tradition, I walk alongside all beliefs. Together, we’ll cultivate your path toward wholeness with curiosity and care.

From an early age, I was drawn to those who felt left out or on the margins. Whether at school, during my years in Christian mission work, or in community settings, I have always sought to stand alongside people with openness and respect. Over time, I came to see that real change doesn’t come from trying to fix others, but from being present with them as they explore their own path.

Alongside supporting people in recovery, addiction, and displacement, I have also been supported in my own times of struggle. Having someone listen with empathy and acceptance has shaped who I am today and shown me the power of therapy to bring healing and growth.

Now, as a psychotherapist in training, my aim is to create that same kind of space for you. I see therapy as a collaborative journey: you are the guide to your own story, and I walk alongside you, offering presence, perspective, and clarity as we explore what needs to emerge.

My Christian faith informs who I am, but I never impose it in the therapy room. I work with people of all beliefs and none, always with curiosity, respect, and care. Whoever you are and whatever you bring, my hope is that you feel seen, heard, and supported in moving toward greater wholeness and freedom.

prior education

Prior Education and Experience

  • BSc in Psychology
  • Over 12 years in cross-cultural Christian missions, supporting people of different faiths and backgrounds (primarily within Christian communities)
  • 7 years’ experience in addiction and recovery work, including one formal year as a trainee psychotherapist and six years informally supporting people on their recovery journeys
counselling and psychotherapy

Counselling and Psychotherapy

  • Currently training in Integrative Psychotherapy with a focus on Transactional Analysis (TA) and an ecological approach.
  • My practice blends psychological theory with the restorative power of nature, adapting to each client’s unique context and needs.
  • My Christian worldview informs who I am, offering grounding and perspective, but it is never imposed in the therapy space.
  • I work with people of all faiths and none, acknowledging that spirituality, culture, and community can influence both wounds and healing.
membership 2 (1)

Professional Memberships

  • UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP) – Trainee Member ( UKCP 2011194948 )
  • UK Association for Transactional Analysis (UKATA) – Member ( UKATA 30218 )
  • International Transactional Analysis Association (ITAA) – Member ( ITAA 24538 )

Writings

Alongside my practice, I enjoy writing and creating resources. My first published work is a children’s book titled “The Dragon in The Alley.” In the future, I hope to write journal articles and create educational content exploring psychotherapy, spirituality, and the integration of nature in healing.