About me

 I am a qualified and accredited counsellor based in South Gloucestershire, with over 10 years of experience.  My approach is psychodynamic, which means I will be helping you to explore and untangle the struggles that go on within you, and how they may be linked to your early experiences.  People often find themselves repeating unhelpful patterns, and not being able to understand why this happens, or why they feel stuck.  Counselling can help you to work things through, and feel empowered to make different choices.

I offer individual counselling to adults on a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, loss and bereavement, addiction and eating disorders.  I have particular experience in working with people who have experienced sexual abuse, and with Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) and Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID).  I have a good understanding of the damage to trust and attachment caused by repeated traumatic experiences.  I am also interested in the therapeutic benefits of creative and reflective writing, and I am currently undertaking a Masters degree in this field. 

My credentials

I completed my Diploma in Professional Studies (Counselling) at the University of the West of England in 2008.    I am an accredited and registered member of the BACP (British Association of Counselling & Psychotherapy). This means that I adhere to the Association’s Ethical Framework for Good Practice in Counselling, and I have regular counselling supervision. I also have professional indemnity insurance, and I am committed to my continuing professional development to keep my knowledge and skills up to date.​​

My experience

I have many years’ experience working as a counsellor in private practice, and in Voluntary Sector organisations in Bristol.  I have worked with people with various mental health issues and very difficult life experiences, including childhood sexual abuse.  I have also provided time-limited counselling in an NHS 'Improving Access to Psychological Therapies' service.

My qualifications and Continuing Professional Development

  • ​Diploma in Professional Studies (Counselling) – University of the West of England 2008 (level 6 qualification, BACP-accredited)
  • Certificate in Counselling Skills – University of the West of England 2006
  • One year Introduction to Group Analysis qualification – Group Analysis South West 2008
  • Accredited and Registered Member of BACP (Certificate No. 027623) since 2012
  • Currently undertaking MSc in Creative Writing for Therapeutic Purposes with Metanoia Institute
  • A wide range of Continuing Professional Development, including:
  • “The Nature of Trauma and Dissociation” – Confer UK
  • “Trauma and the Body”, “Trauma, Dissociation and Recovery”, "Working with Relational Trauma" and "Child Sexual Abuse: Hope for Healing" – PODS (Positive Outcomes for Dissociative Survivors)
  • Various workshops and courses on subjects including attachment, dreams, unconscious processes, Body-Oriented Psychotherapy and working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse.
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