My Approach

My approach is shaped by what each individual brings. For example, sometimes initially didactic and prescriptive when dealing with active addiction but transforming over time into a deeper exploration akin to classic psychoanalysis when the person is ready. The goal always a clear, direct and honest conversation.

About Me

Nick Mercer is an experienced psychoanalytic psychotherapist and addictions counsellor who has written, managed and established total abstinence programmes in a wide variety of locations. Alongside his consultancy work and a private practice, he has adapted and successfully delivered a 12 step programme for young offenders in Reading HMYOI and Aylesbury HMYOI and was instrumental in delivering the first 12 step easy access day programme in Liverpool. His mission is to extend to clients the same opportunities for spiritual and personal growth that were extended to him.
"When I was 37 years old I reached university via an access course and gained a BA and an MA in English. After a number of years working in harm minimisation for Turning Point, Addaction, Richmond Fellowship and the Blenheim Project I completed my counsellor training and spent the next 7 years working in prisons for RAPt. As a manager I customised and delivered the first 12 step programme for young offenders in Reading and Aylesbury prisons. In 2005 I helped deliver the first easy-access non-residential 12-step programme in Liverpool (SHARP) and went on to manage SHARP London. In 2007 I worked on a similiar programme in Oldham incorporating all that we'd learned previously re the efficacy of recovery communities. I then returned to RAPt (now Forward Trust) as a treatment consultant for HMP Everthorpe and led the clinical team in the successful establishment of the HART day programme in Hull. During this time I completed a long and arduous training at the Philadelphia Association of which I am a member and a trustee. I have a small practice in London where I see individual clients and couples. My interest is in providing a safe space where clients can speak fearlessly and where change becomes an organic process as they begin to see themselves. Whether people come for a single consultation or for a long time the same challenging rigour of engagement applies.. I remain convinced that in order to work successfully and ethically we as practitioners must be prepared to engage in a parallel process. On a personal note I have been happily married for 40 years and have 2 sons."
This member has completed UKCP Covid-19 Online Working Guidance’

I work with

• Couples
• Families
• Individuals
• Private healthcare referrals

Special Interests

Like all UKCP registered psychotherapists and psychotherapeutic counsellors I can work with a wide range of issues, but here are some areas in which I have a special interest or additional experience.

Types of Therapies Offered

• Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist

What I can help with

• Addiction