Nicola Swales MBACP (Accred) Psychotherapeutic Counsellor & Supervisor

Training, qualifications & experience

Having qualified as a counsellor in 2011 I have a Diploma, Advanced Diploma and BSc (Hons) in Integrative Counselling. I also hold a Certificate in Clinical Supervision.

I am committed to continuing my professional development. I have undetaken further group work training with The Gestalt Centre as well as an introduction to working with couples course at the Tavistock Centre.  I work with individuals and couples. More recently, I have embarked on completing a Supervision Diploma.

I am currently working within a health psychology service within the NHS in a hospital setting. I offer support and counselling to a variety of people and/or their families. This includes people diagnosed or in remission from cancer, acute and complex trauma, stroke, MS and people who undergo plastic reconstructive surgery. In addition, I facilitate groups in relation to breast cancer, staff support (Incident debrief) and deliver training to staff around compassion fatigue and impact of working with distress.

I have counselled individuals via the IAPT Service in West Essex and Tower Hamlets who suffer from anxiety and depression, often in the context of other emotional wellbeing concerns. I felt particularly passionate about this work, as it was an opportunity to work with mental health from the perspective that it is a community based issue, not just an individual concern. This very much speaks to my philosophy.

I worked within the Criminal Justice System (in a supportive role) for 13 years mainly drawing on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Brief Solution Focused Approaches. This included facilitating groups to assist individuals to make positive changes in their lives. Specialisms included: working with victims and perpetrators of domestic abuse, substance misuse and complex trauma.

I have specialised as a counsellor working with victims of domestic violence whilst undertaking a 12 month placement with Woman's Trust.

I am a registered and accredited member of the British Association of Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP).

Further information

It can be daunting making the first step to contact a counsellor. I am happy for a text or email, as well as ringing to arrange an initial assessment.

I am able to offer short term and long term work.