About me
I am a professionally trained counsellor & psychotherapist. I have supported clients on working through a variety of life’s struggles but I have extensive experience of working with loss & bereavement. In addition, I have worked at a local university for almost 2 years, where I support young people (18+ years) with a range of issues through short term solution focused therapy. I always strive to build a trusted relationship in which you can feel safe enough to tell your story. I hope to support you in gaining greater understanding your situation, acceptance of yourself and a way to move forward with your life.
My approach
My belief is that a relationship based on authentic communication, respect, and empathy can facilitate healing and personal growth. This is supported in research that shows the strength of the therapeutic relationship as the consistent determining factor affecting outcomes of therapy. I aim to offer such a relationship in my work with clients.
I work using an integrative model; this means that I draw on multiple theoretical approaches whilst holding the relationship at the centre of all that we do. Many of us hold certain beliefs and values about ourselves that when explored can be challenged. In my experience this exploration leads to a greater awareness of self. This can be hugely empowering and provide you with an opportunity for personal growth.
You might be questioning how long you would need. I offer both open ended therapy and short term solution focused therapy.
Open ended therapy
Open ended therapy would be exploring a wide range of topics, and aspects of you, and your relationships. You may not know exactly why you are struggling and therefore this approach could give you the space and time to make sense of whatever is troubling you. We would review the work regularly to ensure that you are getting what you need.
Short term - Solution focused
In solution focused work we would aim to establish the focus of the therapy within the first or second session. We would then work together to gain understanding of what it is you need. This could involve challenging self-narratives, exploring strategies, identifying behaviour patterns and much more. I recommend a minimum of 6 sessions.
Regardless of the approach that we work within, I always aim to tailor what I offer to you and what you need.
Areas of interest – Grief
We all experience loss of some kind during our lives. I have supported bereaved relatives, carers and patients whilst working at a local hospice. I learnt that even in the most difficult of times human connection is essential. If you need support with grief, it might be that you are feeling stuck in isolation, anger, and sadness. Losing a loved one can challenge our sense of identity and you might be noticing this too. I support clients in building a sense of self-worth, and in finding their authentic self after loss. I focus on recognising and exploring the emotions around loss. Alongside, considering what it is like to build a life without that person. I work compassionately and follow the pace that is right for you.
Neurodiversity
Neurodiversity is an umbrella term to describe unique ways that a person’s brain works. If you would like support in exploring and understanding yourself or someone close to you through this lens, I can offer a space for you to do so. I have supported clients in gaining understanding and acceptance of themselves by exploring their own unique experience of neurodiversity. This can allow self-esteem and self-compassion to grow. When helpful, I explore strategies and coping mechanisms.
Next steps
If you think that I might be the right person for you then please get in contact. You can email me through counselling directory and I will aim to respond within 24 hours.
We can then arrange a free 20-minute phone consultation which gives you the chance to ask any questions and provides you an opportunity to see if I am the right counsellor for you.
Training, qualifications & experience
Core Training
- FdSc Counselling (with merit)
- Levels 3 Counselling skills
- Level 1-2 Helpful listening skills
- MBACP (Membership)
As a member of the BACP I adhere to the ethical guidelines that they outline. I attend regular supervision sessions where I gain guidance and support in my work from a registered supervisor. I am committed to continual profession development through attending training workshops, talks and ensuring that I am aware of current research.
Continual Professional Development
Trauma through the lens of attachment
Neurodiversity in the context of mental health training
Additional Experience
I currently work at a local university as part of their student health and wellbeing support. My role as a counsellor is to offer short term and solution focused support for students. This can focus on issues such as neurodiversity, exam anxiety, relationship issues, homesickness and bereavement.
I have 2 years experience as a volunteer counsellor at a local hospice supporting patients, carers, and bereaved relatives.
Member organisations
BACP is one of the UK’s leading professional bodies for counselling and psychotherapy with around 60,000 members. The Association has several different categories of membership, including Student Member, Individual Member, Registered Member MBACP, Registered Accredited Member MBACP (Accred) and Senior Registered Accredited Member MBACP (Snr Acccred). Registered and accredited members are listed on the BACP Register, which shows that they have demonstrated BACP’s recommended standards for training, proficiency and ethical practice. The BACP Register was the first register of psychological therapists to be accredited by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA). Accredited and senior accredited membership are voluntary categories for members who choose to undertake a rigorous application and assessment process to demonstrate additional standards around practice, training and supervision. Individual members will have completed an appropriate counselling or psychotherapy course and started to practise, but they won’t appear on the BACP Register until they've demonstrated that they meet the standards for registration. Student members are still in the process of completing their training. All members are bound by the BACP Ethical Framework and a Professional Conduct Procedure.
Accredited register membership
The Accredited Register Scheme was set up in 2013 by the Department of Health (DoH) as a way to recognise organisations that hold voluntary registers which meet certain standards. These standards are set by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA).
This therapist has indicated that they belong to an Accredited Register.
Areas of counselling I deal with
Therapies offered
Fees
£65.00 per session
When I work
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If you would like to get in touch and see if I might be a good fit for you, then please click the 'intro call' button at the top of the page or send me an email.