A problem shared is a problem halved, they say. No matter what your problem is, it is worth talking to someone, whether that is a therapist, a friend or a relative.

To help, we are introducing our new ‘agony aunt’ Claire Gaskin, who is ready to answer your questions.

Claire is an advanced psychotherapist (MIBWRT Adv) and clinical hypnotherapist (DHP LAPHP CNHC) practising in Essex and in London’s Harley Street.

Those chosen will only be identified with their initials and hometown, but they can remain completely anonymous if requested.

Perhaps you are experiencing problems in a relationship or finding it hard to get over the grief of losing a loved one. You might be stressed out at work or feel you are In the wrong job entirely or struggling to cope after starting a family. You may have financial worries and be finding it hard to make ends meet or struggling to make friends in a new town.

Whatever your issue, Claire is here to offer guidance.

Each week she will pick one person’s problem offer her qualified opinion on routes to resolve the issue or avenues or support available.

You can contact her with any problem you may have at agonyaunt@nqe.com