James Hartley _ Therapist for high-achieving professionals

Private Therapy for Professionals & High-Achievers

Online / In-Person

Helping you with hidden burdens

Together we’ll uncover what’s holding you back, so you can move forward with clarity and confidence. I specialise in helping driven, capable people who may appear successful on the outside, but are struggling beneath the surface.

Many of my clients are doctors, barristers, academics, or CEOs - but I work with people from all walks of life.

If something about my approach resonates - get in touch. I’d be happy to help.

Now you’re at the limits of your coping, something feels like it needs to change. Together, we’ll discover what it is, what barriers you face, and what needs to be resolved or healed.

Break the Cycle

Master the Unknown

When faced with unfamiliar challenges it’s normal to feel lost. Together, we’ll expand what you’re capable of overcoming and allow a new sense of resiliency to emerge.

Find Real Support

You’re used to being self-reliant. It may feel not everyone can hold the weight of what you want to share. In our work, you’ll find thoughtful, expert support that can meet you at your level.

James Hartley - Therapist and consultant for high-achieving professionals

Trusted Expertise

  • 5000+ hours of therapy delivered in NHS, charity and private sector

  • Qualified in multiple therapy approaches with over 6 years of clinical training

  • Award-winning therapist - NHS-commissioned Big Life Creative award 2019

  • Specialist in trauma and professionals’ mental health

  • Former elite athlete with personal experience of PTSD

  • Pioneer of innovative therapy approaches and academically active

  • Frequently featured in the media as an expert on therapy and personal development

I have experience helping clients with:

  • Stress and burnout - including chronic burnout, illness and pain

  • Anxiety – including health anxiety, OCD, and panic attacks

  • Low self-esteem and self-worth

  • Trauma, dissociation and PTSD

  • Abuse – including sexual abuse, coercive control, domestic abuse, childhood trauma, neglect, and abandonment

  • Sexuality issues – including LGBTQ+ identity, internalised shame, coming out, and relationship challenges

  • Relationship difficulties

  • Grief and bereavement

  • High performance pressure and imposter syndrome

  • Identity issues and life transitions

  • Addiction and unhealthy coping strategies

  • Difficulty setting boundaries

  • Emotional numbness or disconnection

  • Fear of failure or success

  • Overthinking and rumination

  • Feeling stuck or unfulfilled

  • Anger, irritability, and frustration

  • Loneliness, shame, or guilt

  • Existential concerns and loss of meaning

James Hartley - Expert mindfulness teacher for professionals and high achievers

Testimonials

What my clients say about the work we’ve achieved together:

"James has been an invaluable asset to me as a barrister navigating emotionally charged cases... His insight and guidance have helped me untangle my thoughts, making the challenges of life and work more manageable."

– Michael, 2024. Barrister

"I have worked with James for almost a year and he has been a key part of my progress in overcoming past trauma... I have seen a huge improvement in my overall well-being."

– Kiara, 2024. Chartered Account

“Your patience and understanding made all the difference, and I am incredibly grateful to have found such a supportive therapist in you.”

– Steven, 2025. Director of a Charity

“Working with you, has to be one of the best decisions of my life.”

– Lucy, 2025. Academic

Featured in

James Hartley - Expert therapist Press Coverage

Discreet & Confidential Therapy Space

At the Royal Exchange, Manchester.

Therapy Space Sneak Peek

Book an Appointment

I offer full assessments and free consultations for new clients. See below:

James Hartley - Expert Therapist Booking Option A

Consultation - 20 mins

FREE

A chance to briefly discuss on the telephone what brings you here, ask questions, and see if we’re a good fit. No obligation to continue.

James Hartley Expert Therapist Booking Option B

Full Assessment & Planning Session - 60 mins

£100 (same price as a therapy session)

A full assessment either face-to-face or online, where we explore your background, goals and potential therapy plan. We’ll then decide together whether ongoing sessions feel right for you.

Therapy Sessions

  • Online and face-to-face

  • A full 60 minutes

  • £100 per hour

  • Online across the UK

  • Face-to-face at the Royal Exchange Manchester

  • DBS and Insured

  • Registered therapist with the BACP: No. 379016