about counselling with me

I provide a safe, empathic, confidential, supportive and non-judgmental space with my warm and gentle approach, to talk through any difficulties or life concerns that you may be finding hard to face alone. I work in a person centred way, which means keeping you and what is important to you at the centre of everything we reflect on together. I also integrate other therapeutic approaches such as transpersonal which can help us explore your life from a spiritual perspective if you feel that would be helpful to you. You are in control of all the work that we do together.

The relationship between counsellor and client is of the upmost importance; our therapeutic relationship is where the change you’re looking for becomes possible and the power to heal is found. In order for you to ensure you find the right counsellor for you, I offer a reduced fee initial assessment lasting 50mins. If you feel I am the right person to work after the assessment session, then together we will begin that journey. Along this journey we will discover your inner strengths, we might uncover hidden patterns of relating and behaving which we will unfold and process together. We may also bring in an awareness of your spiritual self that will help you in understanding yourself better. This process can take time, so I offer an open ended form of counselling, to allow us the time we need.

• anxiety
• depression
• mental health distress
• bereavement/loss
• relationship split/ending
• identity issues
• sexuality issues
• gender stereotypes
• loneliness/isolation
• abuse
• misunderstandings
• Low self esteem and self worth
• Spiritual concerns

I like to lay down any labels you may be holding and seek to see the person underneath.

Taking the first steps of finding a counsellor can be scary. Some see it as a sign of weakness; however I see it as a sign of strength that you are strong enough to ask for help. At our first session you will have a chance to explore your expectations and goals for counselling, whilst I gain more of an understanding of what you are experiencing in life, then as long as we both feel that we can work together, we will agree further sessions from there. Please do feel free to get in touch if you have any questions and/or require any further information.

I have worked as a 1:1 counsellor for Olive Branch Counselling in Chippenham for the past 5 years. I also currently work with the Family Centre for Deaf Children in Bristol. This work has involved running both group and individual therapy. I have my own private practice and offer counselling in Bristol and Chippenham.
 

I have an interest in working to support lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning (LGBTQ) clients and have experience as an LGBT youth support worker.  I am comfortable talking through identity and gender issues and I am also able to signpost to agencies who will assist you in embracing and enhancing your sexuality/gender. 

I also have an interest in working with D/deaf and hard of hearing clients, I am passionate about inclusivity for all the above and believe Deaf people should have the same access as hearing to counselling services. I am therefore progressing in learning British Sign Language, currently at level 6 with Signature.

I am also a Christian; however, I do not bring in the spiritual aspect into my work unless you (my client) seeks for this to happen.  I am really keen to combine my experiences and ensure I hold a space for everyone to feel safe.

Training & Professional standards:

Foundation Degree in Humanistic Counselling
Level 5 Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling
Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling

I have full professional liability insurance.
 

I am a registered member of the BACP, so adhere to the Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professionals.