Affordable Therapy in Surrey and Online Across the UK: Dancing with Our Demons

The other night, I sat down with my children to watch the new Netflix film K-Pop Demon Hunters. On the surface, it’s a fun, action-packed story of young stars taking on dark forces with courage and teamwork. But as a therapist, I couldn’t help but notice something deeper: those “demons” looked a lot like something I talk about often in counselling — our inner critic.

That voice inside us that whispers:

“You’re not good enough.”
“You always mess things up.”
“Everyone else is doing better than you.”

The film shows demons chasing and influencing the characters, just as our inner critic can chase us through life. When we listen to that voice too much, it can start to shape how we behave, the choices we make, and even how we see ourselves.

How Relationships Feed Our Inner Demons

Sometimes the people around us — partners, family, colleagues — unintentionally validate our demons. A harsh comment, a raised eyebrow, an expectation we can’t meet: these can feel like confirmation that those negative voices are right.

As a therapist offering client-led therapy in Surrey and remotely across the UK, I often hear how these experiences can leave people stuck in cycles of self-doubt and anxiety. But therapy can help break that cycle.

Understanding the Demons: CBT, ACT, and PCT

Different therapeutic approaches provide useful tools for managing the inner critic:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

CBT explores the link between thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. For example: the demon says, “You’re useless.” That thought sparks feelings of shame, which can lead to withdrawal. CBT helps you challenge and reframe those thoughts — finding balance and truth rather than harshness.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

ACT reminds us that we don’t have to fight our demons directly. Instead, we notice the thought, accept its presence, and then act in line with our values. It’s about dancing with the demon without letting it lead.

Person-Centred Therapy (PCT)

PCT focuses on the healing power of being heard and accepted without judgement. In a warm, compassionate relationship, we can begin to soften the inner critic and replace it with a kinder, more authentic voice.

Tools to Manage the Inner Critic

Here are some practical tools I often share in counselling sessions online and in Surrey:

Name the demon: Giving your inner critic a silly name makes it feel less powerful.
Thought records (CBT tool): Write down the negative thought, the evidence for and against it, and create a more balanced perspective.
Defusion techniques (ACT tool): Sing your critical thought to a silly tune or say it in a cartoon voice to reduce its power.
Compassionate self-talk (PCT tool): Ask, “What would I say to a friend in this situation?” and apply those words to yourself.
Mindful pause: Take a few slow breaths, notice your surroundings, and ground yourself in the present before responding.

Why Affordable Therapy Matters

Therapy should be accessible, not a luxury. That’s why I offer affordable therapy in Surrey and remote counselling across the UK. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship struggles, or simply want a space to better understand yourself, my approach is client-led and guided by your needs.

Take Back Control of Your Story

The message in K-Pop Demon Hunters is one we can all learn from: our demons don’t have to win. With the right support, you can quiet the inner critic, reclaim your story, and step into a life that feels freer, kinder, and more true to you.

If you’re looking for affordable counselling in Surrey or prefer the convenience of online therapy in the UK, I’d be honoured to support you on your journey.

Client-led, affordable, and accessible therapy in Surrey or online across the UK. Together, we can help you find new ways of dancing with — not being led by — your demons.