Clients come to me with a variety of issues relating to relationship issues; work-life balance and stress; family problems; identity; partnership breakdowns; anxiety and concerns over personal well-being. I offer an environment that enables clients to fully express their deepest fears and concerns, alongside opportunities to recognise their natural abilities. Even in the darkest times, each person has unique and positive characteristics to draw upon - which in turn can create opportunities, choices and pathways.

How I Work

The framework of my practice is Transactional Analysis (TA), aiming to support clients in achieving autonomy - awareness, spontaneity and intimacy. Together we look at patterns of communication, behaviours, thoughts and feelings to better understand where they come from, how they repeat and manifest and how they might impact our lives. With new awareness, it’s possible to consider making challenges to our existing script - the narrative of our life - to support new ideas and opportunities. Transactional analysis might sound complex, but the ideas, models and tools are simple to use and usually clients find the TA work easy, fun and insightful.

When we work creatively in the moment with Gestalt therapy, we open doors to awareness just outside of our consciousness. This model offers an opportunity to observe deeply held beliefs and blocks - used as coping mechanisms in the past - but now outdated or unhelpful. This work can be deep and potent - for some clients it can be the key to change.

And supporting this whole process in the therapy room, is the intention and energy of working ‘relationally’. What evolves in the therapeutic process - between client and therapist. This provides more information regarding relationships, patterns and beliefs - an opportunity to overcome long-standing obstacles in families; partnerships; at work and with friends.

There is no ‘one size fits all’, and each person coming to therapy is unique and will respond differently and in their own personal way to how the therapy evolves. For some clients understanding the process and models of psychology is important, for others, talking through particular memories or recent events can unlock blocks and deepen awareness. You don’t have to worry about what suits you best or what you will prefer, as I aim to provide you with different experiences to identify what might be most beneficial for your situation. When you start to feel like you have the keys, you can trust yourself to move forward with a new perspective.

One of my specialisms is working with couples, and I structure the sessions to allow equal and easier communication, deeper analysis of why breakdowns might be occurring and the options for resolution or improvement. For some couples facing separation, the work allows for care on both sides, throughout the transition - a secure environment for consideration, options and negotiation. Here’s a link to my couple counselling page

My background

I became interested in my own personal development in 1997 and undertook courses both in the UK and abroad. I also became involved in group work. In 2007, I qualified as an NLP Practitioner to support my training skills in the corporate environment. I liked the idea of changing what wasn't helpful, and there are various NLP exercises that can support mind and body in facilitating positive change. In 2009 I co-facilitated the Family Aftercare Support Group at an addiction treatment centre in Ontario, Canada. Whilst I was training to be a therapist I volunteered at several therapy centres to maximise my initial training and practice new skills. This foundation led to me working with a large health provider working in mental health clinical assessment. It was this experience that expanded my knowledge of presenting issues and the different resources available for support. Therapy is not necessarily the answer for everyone and I will do my best to signpost you if you are uncertain about the pathways available.

Prior to becoming a psychotherapist, I spent 20 years in marketing & communications across Europe, North America and the Middle East. I was involved in training groups and optimising performance. I believe these experiences have helped me develop a cultural sensitivity and a deep understanding of workplace issues, stress and work/life balance. Many of my current clients commute or travel for work and I am able to fit sessions in around their schedules and when travelling if needed.

Specialisation & Qualifications

Since qualifying as a therapist, I continue to develop my skills with personal development, undertaking training; courses and working with peers and professionals to deepen my knowledge. I am also a qualified clinical supervisor and have a further quality standard of ‘Accredited Status’ with the British Association of Counsellors & Psychotherapists (BACP).

My specialisations include:

• Transactional analysis

• Gestalt therapy

• NLP

• Couple work

• Schema Therapy

• Employee Assistance Programmes (EAP)

• Private Health Insurance via AXA Health and AVIVA

• Short term/goal-focused personal development support

• Clinical supervision for trainee and qualified counsellors

My qualifications include:

• BACP Accredited Diploma in Humanistic, Integrative Counselling

• Diploma in Supervision

• NLP Practitioner qualification

• Accredited Member of British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (BACP). Achieving BACP Accredited Member Status is a further acknowledgement of knowledge, experience and development. The award of accreditation signifies a commitment to high quality work, ethical practice and personal integrity.

As part of my on-going membership with the BACP, I adhere to the ethical and professional framework, commit to regular supervision and CPD and maintain full practitioner liability insurance. For more information about the BACP Ethical Framework click here.