Shani Thomas |  |
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Shani Thomas Paignton Devon TQ3 |
Additional Address Totnes TQ3 |
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tel: 07733140222
Click here to Email me | ||
Profile
I am a highly experienced Addictions Therapist specialising in behavioural and substance addictions. These include - alcohol, spending, sex, gambling, internet sites and unhealthy relationships. I am discovering that in the current climate, that many of those who are contacting me are men who are caught up in a cycle of visiting internet pornography sites. These men and often their families are attempting to make sense of this very painful and shaming compulsion. Partners take it personally, and the compulsive user is often in a place of despair and confusion "why am I doing this, this is not who I am". There are many underlying issues to be explored but most important is to understand that you are not alone. You have simply discovered something that gives you an escape/soothes you, from underlying pain/fear.
If you are suffering from substance abuse I can only see you if you are currently clean from drugs/drink and are ready to explore some of the underlying issues that underpin the addiction. The exception to this is if you are struggling hard with your addiction and wish to explore the possibility of rehab. I have contacts in many of these facilities both in the UK and abroad and can co-ordinate assessments and admissions for you.
In my experience, shame and guilt are often the feelings that underpin the continued cycle of addiction (behavioural and substance). Many people are also overwhelmed by feelings of loneliness and self loathing. My role is to help you to break this addictive thought process and to assist in the development of new coping skills to prevent relapse.
I also work with people suffering depression and anxiety disorders. For this I prefer to use a Cognitive Behavioural therapeutic approach. This involves exploration of your belief systems, internal dialogue and the impact this has on your behaviour. By identifying personal success and setting achievable goals this approach can produce immediate results for you.
My experience includes:
1. Work in one of the leading private rehab units in the UK. My role was Primary Counsellor and my responsibilities included - assessments, group therapy, family workshops, and carrying a caseload of clients.
2. Private practice in Chelsea, London. My clients were usually in long term recovery form addictive behaviours and were working on un-resolved trauma issues.
3. The NHS – Based at hospitals and gp surgeries, carrying a caseload of patients suffering from depression, anxiety, stress, and panic disorders. I used a Cognitive Therapeutic approach with this client group.
4. The Criminal Justice System - Working on a self employed basis as a counselling advisor. Helping ex-offenders to break the patterns of the past.
5. I have contacts for referral to treatment units in the UK and abroad.
6. I run workshops for - self esteem, family dynamics, and corporate motivation and communication techniques.
I am aware of, and practice respect to diversity to sexual orientation, religious belief, race, ethnic minorities, and excluded populations. I abide by the Ethical Framework within the BACP. I demonstrate firm boundaries and ensure that I work within the rules of the data protection act.
Equal Opportunities
I am non judgemental and have evidenced this by working with varied client groups.
Training, Qualifications & Experience
European diploma in addictions counselling (Wiltshire)
Certificate in Training Practice (Civil Service College, Ascot)
Member of the BACP
Continued professional workshops:-
Terrance Gorski’s – relapse prevention.
The Meadows, Arizona - ‘Survivors’
Professor Stephen Palmers intro to CBT
Professor Stephen Palmers Stress Management
Domestic violence
Sexual compulsivity
Child protection
Dual diagnosis
Areas of counselling I deal with
Other areas of counselling I deal with
Relationship addiction/avoidance
For those who find themselves caught in a cycle of destructive behaviours in personal relationships or at work.
Further Information
In addition to my therapeutic training, I am a qualified trainer this means that I am completely competent in identifying training needs in others, and myself, and providing solutions.
