About me
I am passionate about supporting individuals to be active in their own wellbeing, and to acknowledge that they are experts in their own lives. I believe we all have an innate capacity to heal, grow and evolve, even if sometimes our mind tells us otherwise.
I support people in developing a relationship with themselves that it not solely defined by the difficulties they face, but can make space for new perspectives and understanding. I aim to support individuals in identifying and meeting their own needs, whilst developing the capacity for good wellbeing wherever you are in your life, even if right now you don't believe that is possible. I see self-compassion as foundational to this process, particularly how we pay attention to ourselves; is it with judgement or kindness? - it is difficult to imagine positive change when our mind is clouded by self-criticism.
My work can be described as integrative, meaning I draw on different counselling theories and other trainings that have shaped my practice over many years. I work in a person centred and highly collaborative style, maintaining a flexible and responsive approach. I hope for sessions to feel warm, safe and friendly and at your pace. Everything offered in session is an invitation to explore and offered with integrity and authenticity. I am here to facilitate your process as a fellow human being, guided by what is making sense to you and where you are finding meaning.
I work aligned with trauma informed principles, as i feel they support a good therapeutic relationship regardless of anyone's trauma history.
I work in a neurodivergent affirming way, in the widest sense. We all have different ways of being in the world and I recognise this may require adjustments or a different way of working. This a very important part of voicing and meeting your own individual needs.
Training, qualifications & experience
Core trainings/qualifications:
- Mental Health Nurse Training - University of Plymouth 2000
- Counselling Diploma - Workers Education Authority 2009 ( NCPS accreditation)
- Post Graduate Diploma in Psychological Therapies - Mindfullness Based Cognitive Therapy and mindfullness based approaches - University of Exeter (CEDAR) 2017
Additional training:
- Group Analysis foundation course -2000
- CRUSE Bereavement Care- adult 2006, children and young people 2013
- Attachment Lead/Relational trauma training - Touchbase 2017
- Ongoing CPD- day trainings and awareness raising
I work with all ages, but have extensive experience working with adolescents and young adults. I have a strong interest in mental health, neurodivergence, loss and bereavement, trauma, attachment, chronic stress and carer support.
Member organisations
school Registered / Accredited
Being registered/accredited with a professional body means an individual must have achieved a substantial level of training and experience approved by their member organisation.
The National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society This Not For Profit association of counsellors and psychotherapists aim to support the counselling profession, members and training organisations. In 2013 the NCS register was accredited by the Professional Standards Authority under the Accredited Voluntary Register Scheme. Accredited by the Professional Standards Authority.
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
£45.00 per session
Further information
Why counselling?
Counselling can support us during challenging circumstances, significant life events or any ongoing physical, psychological and emotional difficulties. Adjusting or trying to cope can significantly threaten our identity and sense of self. You may feel disconnected , helpless or stuck, masking how you really feel. Its a vulnerable place to be and takes courage to reach out. It is important to know that positive shifts are as much a possibility for you as anyone else.
It can often feel like we are at war with ourselves, constantly stressed, overwhelmed, leaving us asking the question; how did I get here? Counselling helps us recognise what maintains negative cycles and what might move us in the direction of more helpful and healthier ways of being. In doing so we start to see areas of strength and resilience that can so easily go unnoticed, but can be transformative. Therapeutic experiences are an opportunity to develop self awareness, internal resources, skills, knowledge and a deeper understanding of self and circumstances.
