About me
I am registered with UKCP (UK Council for Psychotherapy) and have been a full time therapist for 20 years. I trained to Postgraduate level in Psychodynamic Counselling and have extensive training in Compassion Focused Therapy. I bring warmth, professionalism and dedication to my work.
I offer a calm and containing space in central Cambridge to work through any issue that is important to you. I work shorter or longer term depending on your requirements. An introductory session will help you decide if you would like to continue working with me.
I work with people 18+ usually once a week, sometimes more or less frequently. Sessions are in person but online sessions are possible for existing clients.
As well as private work, I work in-house for one of the Cambridge Colleges. I previously worked for the NHS, Cambridge University Counselling Service and two other universities.
Training, qualifications & experience
I combine a core Psychodynamic training with Compassion Focused Therapy and draw on recent trainings, such as working with the body in therapy.
Continuing Professional Development (2008 - present) in a wide range of areas. Recent training has been in the areas of eating disorders, the menstrual cycle, sex and intimacy, childhood sexual abuse, anti-racism, trauma.
Compassion Focussed Therapy (2013-present) Courses, workshops, conferences and supervision organised by the Compassionate Mind Foundation, whose President, Paul Gilbert originated CFT. CFT uses an evolutionary model of how our brains work and draws on Buddhist ideas to address suffering in a practical way. It is an evidence-based therapy developed from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) has gained wide acceptance internationally.
Psychodynamic Counselling (2002-2007) Postgraduate Diploma and Advanced Diploma at the University of Cambridge. Both courses were BACP Accredited. A Psychodynamic approach explores the longer term causes of current distress including our unconscious, which can unlock a deeper understanding of ourselves.
Work experience:
- 2021- present: Counsellor & Mental Health Coordinator, Emmanuel College, Cambridge
- 2018 - 2021: Counsellor, Churchill College, Cambridge
- 2017 - present: Psychotherapist in private practice
- 2017 - 2025 Clinical Supervisor, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (Addenbrooke's)
- 2012-2018: Counsellor, Cambridge University Counselling Service
- 2007-11: Counsellor, Anglia Ruskin University
Professional registration: Registered with the United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP) https://www.psychotherapy.org.uk/
Other work experience: radio producer, media trainer, charitable grant giving.
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 UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP) is a leading professional body for the education, training and regulation of psychotherapists and psychotherapeutic counsellors. Its register is accredited by the government's Professional Standards Authority.
As part of its commitment to protect the public, it works to improve access to psychotherapy, to support and disseminate research, to improve standards and to respond effectively to complaints against its members.
UKCP standards cover the range of different psychotherapies. Registration is obtained by training or accrediting with one of its member organisations, or by holding a European Certificate in Psychotherapy. 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
Other areas of counselling I deal with
I work with people on any issue. If I believe another approach or therapist would be more helpful, I am happy to recommend this to you.
Therapies offered
Fees
£60.00 - £80.00
Concessions offered for
Additional information
I offer a initial appointment fee of £60.
I am happy to discuss a concessionary rate depending upon your circumstances.
I offer a reduced rate for trainee therapists.
Further information
Why come to therapy? You may want to reduce immediate or long-standing distress. You may want to gain perspective and a deeper understanding of yourself. You may want to clarify your options. You may feel lost and not know what would help.
I work with people on anything that feels important in their lives. I bring compassion, warmth, flexibility, dedication and, occasionally, humour.
Over 20 years' as a therapist, I have worked with thousands of clients and have experience with a very wide range of issues. Therapy is not cheap, but it is of tremendous value.
