My Approach
I am a Humanistic Counsellor, having trained in Existential and Gestalt therapy, while also drawing on elements of Person-centred therapy. I first took a therapy training course in 2004, and I now combine different elements of these approaches. Since I began seeing clients in 2019, I have learned that everyone needs their own specific approach - this is something we can work out together. Throughout our sessions together I will be an active part of this process with you. As a therapist I offer my understanding, my presence, my experience, and my empathy, which I believe can help people to cope better, to become more self-aware, to feel less alone, and to build healthier relationships.
I have worked with clients who have experienced the following issues:
Abuse ADHD Anxiety Berearvement Body Dysmorphia Cultural Identity Depression Dissociative Disorders Eating Disorders Gender Identity Generalised Anxiety Disorder GSRD (Gender, Sex & Relationship Diversity) Grief LGBTQI+ Loneliness Loss Low Self Esteem OCD Panic Attacks Physical Health Conditions PTSD Relationships Sexual Identity Sex & Intmacy Self-Harm Shame Stress Trauma
If you are considering having counselling, please have a look at the rest of my site. How To Begin might be helpful.
Often the support we need is not present, causing us to feel pain, un-ease, frustration, and which may lead to guilt, shame, depression, eating disorders, self-harm, low self esteem, addiction, anxiety and panic. As children we may have learned to be a certain way, and developed certain patterns or character traits that we once used to shield of us from harm, which now, as adults, no longer serve us. As a counsellor I am interested in how we create our own meaning by using all that we have available to us. My aim is to allow you, the client, a supportive and accepting environment during counselling, that can enable you to hear your own voice more clearly.
I have experience of working with clients from a range of ages, sexualities, ethnicities, backgrounds and cultures. My practice is GSRD (Gender, sex and relationship diversity) and LGBTQIA+ aware and inclusive. I will welcome you however you self-identify.
A therapeutic relationship with an empathic counsellor can allow for growth and awareness, and the relationship itself can become a source of healing. As we learn to better accept ourselves and become more attuned to our needs and wants through an authentic relationship, we can allow ourselves to live in a more compassionate and fulfilled way. However, I am not the expert on your experience - you are - and our work together is a collaboration. I do not have a magic wand - my aim is to support you. Counselling can be a struggle and it can be challenging, and change does not happen overnight. You may feel yourself being vulnerable and unsure. And at other times, you may even enjoy it. In counselling, there is room for tears, sadness, anger, and darkness, as well as laughter and light. I consider myself fortunate to be a counsellor, and privileged to have accompanied my clients through difficult and distressing times. The therapy space is unlike any other, and if we work together I will encourage you to explore, in the present moment, what therapy can be for you.
My Qualifications:
-Foundation in Counselling and Psychotherapy, NSPC (2007)
-Diploma in Counselling, Gestalt Centre, London (2018-2020)
-Post-graduate Certificate in Clinical Sexology, NAOS Institute (Sept-Nov 2021)
-Post-graduate Certificate in Group Facilitation, Gestalt Centre (April-July 2023)
and
-BA Honours in English Literature with Creative Writing from the University of East Anglia, Norwich (2001-2004)
My Professional Memberships:
-BACP Accredited Member (Accreditation is including and after BACP Registration)
I adhere to the BACP's Ethical Framework and Good Practice in Action
-Professional Standards Authority Accredited Register
-ICO (Information Commissioner's Office) Membership
-Member of The Gestalt Centre, London
I work with individuals only (not couples), and adults only over the age of 18.
I meet regularly with a clinical supervisor to review and support my work.
I attend regular CPD (Continuing Professional Development)
