My belief regarding therapy is that each and every one of us is unique and individual in our own right so therefore the therapy offered should reflect that, and be specific to your needs.
Prior to becoming a psychotherapist, I worked in an educational environment (from 2001) and have extensive experience of working with children and young people in lots of different guises, including in my capacity as designated safe guarding officer for 8 years.
In 2006 I gained a professional certificate from Nottingham Trent University in Person Centred Counselling Skills which enabled me to work in a more therapeutic way within my role.
I feel privileged to have worked with lots of young people who showed great courage, determination to succeed or sometimes a determination to survive in lives that were often full of confusion, including the instability arising from traumatic events. I was in awe of their resilience and ability to manage their day to day life. I enjoyed working with a diverse spectrum in terms of backgrounds, cultures, values, beliefs, sexuality and gender identity.
I also understand the pressures that parents and care givers experience having supported families during times when their lives were in crisis.
The experiences of the last few years led me to become a counsellor and psychotherapist.
From experience, creating a relationship that is safe, confidential, respectful, honest and non-judgemental allows others an opportunity to make sense of their world, accepting of who they are. Supporting them to develop a healthier sense of self. Empowering them to increase autonomy to make choices and changes that are important to them.
I now work from my private practice in Carlton as this offers the flexibility in being able to support adults and young people.
Outside of private practice, for the last three years, I volunteered as a counsellor for a charity in Newark that offers counselling to young people and adults aged 6 – 25.
