My initial counselling training was “integrative” which basically means that I studied a wide range of different counselling models and styles. This has enabled me to develop the tools to be able to offer what the client wants from therapy, rather than what I may think they need! I achieved a Foundation Degree in Science (Counselling) at Anglia Ruskin University in 2008.
My training continued at The University of Leicester where I added a Batchelor of Arts in Counselling Degree to my qualifications, graduating in 2011.
My counselling experience is diverse and includes working with people who have problems with anger, anxiety, depression, work stress and low self esteem. My specialism is in the field of domestic violence and abuse and childhood sexual abuse.
Visit the frequently asked questions page for more in depth information on all aspects of counselling.
I was originally trained as an integrative counsellor, with emphasis on ‘person centred’ and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) models. This enables me draw on my wide experience of using different styles of therapy to suit a client’s individual needs. My passion is to discover what my clients want from therapy to deliver what they want.
My belief if that there is a close ‘mind/body’ connection and I therefore work to create a truly holistic approach to my work.
Sessions
Counselling may be available via your employer’s health plan and if so, we will have to work within their timescale (i.e., maximum 5, 6, or 10 sessions). If you contact me as a private client, however, then sessions can be either short or long term. Although it may be strange talking about ‘endings’ at our first session, I feel it is an important part of our therapeutic relationship to be aware that there will be an end and it is important that a good ending is achieved for both of us. Some clients may feel they only need a few sessions, whilst others require long term work together. I will always review our work together and check in with you from time to time to see how you feel your sessions are going.
Each session will be of one hour duration, usually weekly. However, the frequency can be shorter or longer depending on your needs at the time.
Our first session together with be a ‘getting to know you’ exercise and this will, of course, be for both of us! If we feel that we may not feel happy to work with one another, then that is absolutely fine, although I do believe that a minimum of six sessions is needed, to enable us to see how we can work together.
As part of my BACP membership, I am required to attend “Supervision” and I see my own counsellor-supervisor for 1.5 hours per month. This helps me to help you, as there may be some aspects of our work I may bring to her sessions.
Everything will be explained to you clearly on your first session, and you will be given the opportunity to ask questions or express any concerns you may have. My goal is for you to feel as comfortable and relaxed as possible during your sessions, in order for you to achieve the best outcome possible.
I hope this have given you a better insight into my background and has possibly allayed any concerns you may have about counselling. You may have some thoughts about how you perceive a counselling session to be, but more often than not, it is not like how you imagine it to be!
Please contact me either by phone, text or email and I will be pleased to answer any questions you may have. I look forward to meeting you.
Sessions are £55 per hour payable on the day of the session.
Online payments are preferred, but I can also accept credit/debit cards or cash payments.