I understand the challenge of finding the right counsellor. It's a brave decision to seek help for yourself, child or grandchild.
My clients have described me as calm, warm, welcoming, and approachable, putting them at ease. I am an adult, child, and adolescent integrative counsellor specialising in 5-18-year-olds. I have over two years of experience working in the government sector for the NHS, working in schools and mental health charities. I transitioned to private practice to ensure no child in need is turned away or waits too long for help. My counselling space is a safe haven, where you can feel secure and comfortable.
Qualifications:
Level 4 advanced diploma in counselling
Level 6 diploma in counselling children and adolescents
Level 2 diploma in working with Autism
Working with trauma (Carolyn Spring)
CAMHS DBT Training
Level 2 Certificate in self-harm and suicide prevention
Gender Variant Children and Trans Adolescents (Anna Freud)
Working with Adolescents (Pace2Be)
Place2Be Play Therapy, Story and Metaphor Workshop
Sexual Violence training through Victim Support
Counselling Tutor ACTO approved Level 1 certificate in Online and Telephone Counselling
As an integrative counsellor, I tailor my approach to each client's unique needs, using a variety of modalities such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, play therapy, and art therapy. While my specialisation is working with children and adolescents, I am equally adept at working with adults. Drawing from my creative background, I incorporate play and creativity into my sessions, fostering a comfortable and engaging environment for all.
My work within the NHS primarily involved clients affected by neurodiversity and trauma. I employ various tools and techniques such as mindfulness exercises, cognitive restructuring, and narrative therapy to equip individuals with coping strategies. Notably, the sessions are not prescriptive; they can be led by the client, ensuring their needs and comfort are always prioritized.
With neurodiversity, I found that children are often misunderstood and dismissed in the education setting and sometimes at home, so I created a programme to help the child understand their unique needs and preferences, essentially making their 'instruction manual’. This manual can then be used to support the parents and the educational setting.
We will look at psychoeducation, body processing, core beliefs, each individual's unique presentation and triggers, etc. and find coping strategies to help the client and parents better manage and understand certain behaviours.
Regarding neurodiversity, many presenting concerns may persist, but they can be effectively managed. I am a firm believer in equipping individuals with coping strategies that can be used in the long term. I also believe in fostering resilience and empowering individuals to help themselves, as they inherently possess the tools. What they need is guidance, and I am here to provide it.
With neurodiversity, I found that children are often misunderstood and dismissed in the education setting and sometimes at home, so I created a programme to help the child understand their unique needs and preferences, essentially making their 'instruction manual’. This manual can then be used to support the parents and the educational setting.
