Father and child playing together - Dyadic Theraplay in Colchester Essex
Colchester, Essex

A Space to Think.
A Space to Grow.

Helping children, families and adults find new perspectives and build brighter futures — with warmth, experience and genuine care.

18+ Years Social Care Experience
Level 1 & 2 Theraplay Trained
Lectured at University of Essex & UEA
Trained 9 Local Authorities
"The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change."
— Carl Rogers, founder of Person-Centred Therapy

You Don't Have to Figure It Out Alone

Whether you're a child struggling to feel safe, a family navigating difficult times, or an adult ready to make sense of your experiences — BroadThinking Therapy & Counselling offers a warm, professional space to think, reflect and grow.

Based in Colchester, Essex, I bring over 18 years of experience in social care to every session — supporting children in care, foster carers, residential staff, parents and adults.

Meet Chris →
18+
Years in Social Care
6+
Years Therapeutic Support
L1 & L2
Theraplay Trained

Therapy & Counselling Services

Available Now

Dyadic Theraplay

A structured, evidence-based approach that strengthens the relationship between children and their caregivers. Particularly effective for children in care, adopted children, and families navigating attachment difficulties.

Currently offering Theraplay Informed Practice and Foundational Theraplay as a Level 1 & 2 trained practitioner completing my practicum in Colchester, Essex.

Learn More →
Coming 2026

Integrative Counselling

Drawing on multiple therapeutic approaches tailored to your individual needs. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, trauma, loss or life transitions — integrative counselling meets you where you are.

Currently completing my counselling qualification. Register your interest to be notified when sessions open in Colchester.

Find Out More →
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"This isn't just a career change — it's the natural next step in work I've always been passionate about."

— Chris Broad

18 Years of Experience.
A Lifelong Passion.

I've spent 18 years working in social care, supporting some of the most vulnerable children and families in Essex. For the last 6 years I've been offering therapeutic support directly — working with children in care, foster carers, residential staff and parents.

I trained in Theraplay because I believe in the power of relationships to heal. I'm now completing my counselling qualification to extend that support to adults too.

Level 1 & 2 Theraplay Trained
Theraplay Informed Practice Practitioner
Currently Completing Counselling Qualification
18+ Years Social Care Experience in Essex
Read More About Chris

Training Others to Make a Difference

Alongside direct therapeutic work, Chris has spent years sharing his expertise with professionals across the sector — training, lecturing and developing the practice of those who work with vulnerable children and families.

9
Local Authorities Trained
2
Universities Lectured At
18+
Years Sector Experience

Training Specialisms

  • Developmental Trauma — understanding impact on children and young people
  • Attachment Theory — building secure relationships with vulnerable children
  • Play — using play therapeutically in professional practice
  • Connection and Relationships — creating meaningful bonds with children in care

Who Chris Has Trained

  • Social Workers across 9 local authorities in Essex and beyond
  • Foster Carers — supporting children placed in foster care
  • Adopters — preparing and supporting adoptive families
  • Residential Home Staff — therapeutic approaches in residential settings
🎓 University of Essex — Guest Lecturer
🎓 University of East Anglia — Guest Lecturer

From the Blog

All Posts →
🧠
Theraplay

What is Dyadic Theraplay and How Can It Help Your Child?

An introduction to Theraplay — what it is, who it helps, and what to expect from sessions in Colchester.

💬
Counselling

Finding the Right Counsellor in Colchester — What to Look For

Thinking about therapy? Here's what to consider when choosing a counsellor in Colchester, Essex.

🌱
Wellbeing

My Journey to Becoming a Therapist in Colchester

18 years in social care, 6 years of therapeutic work — and why I'm taking the next step.

Ready to Take
the First Step?

I offer a free 20-minute consultation — no obligation, just a conversation. Based in Colchester, Essex and available for online sessions across the UK.

Book Your Free Consultation
📍 Colchester, Essex  ·  Online Sessions UK-Wide