“Our relationship will be at the heart of the work we do.”
How counselling with me works
Therapy is most effective when we are able to build a trusting relationship. When working with me, I want you to feel safe sharing your experiences and create a space where we can connect as two human beings, together.
Warmth, compassion and openness are central to how I work, helping you to identify and share your feelings with me. I encourage you to be as open as you feel able to, in return.
Our sessions will be led by you, and what is important for you. I will reflect back what I hear from you, and gently ask questions so that you may see and understand your thoughts and experiences through a different lens, gaining new insight and understanding.
As well as being helpful, you might find therapy challenging and uncomfortable at times. This is completely normal and we will work our way through these feelings together.
I am trained as an Integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist. This means that I can work with you in the short term (generally 6-12 sessions) to address issues that are going on for you at the present time. Additionally I can also work on a more long term basis, where we feel that may be more suitable for you.
The insights and understanding gained through therapy will enable you to feel better equipped to deal with the challenges and difficulties that brought you here.
Meeting your needs
I do my best to ensure that my practice is inclusive of all, recognising that some communities face specific oppression and discrimination.
I am committed to ongoing learning, reflecting on my own practice and listening to you. This helps me consider how my service can meet your individual needs, where possible. If you have a special need or disability, please let me know so that I can try to accommodate this.
If you are interested in finding out more about how I work, please contact me on 07387 330119, or at: enquiries@fernbankcounselling.co.uk
Integrative counselling
Integrative counselling draws upon a variety of psychological theories to understand how humans develop, learn and interact. You can find out more about it as an approach here.
My focus will be on valuing and accepting you as the unique individual that you are (Humanistic), understanding how you have been shaped by your past experiences and how they affect you and your relationships (Psychodynamic), and exploring the links between your thoughts, feelings and bodily responses to situations (CBT).
I also draw upon neuroscience to understand responses to stress and trauma and how to work with these. I am trained in, and offer, specific counselling for trauma (including PTSD and C-PTSD).
Every client is unique and different and when you’re working with me I will tailor my approach and interventions to what you need.
About me
My personal journey to being a therapist began in my twenties. I worked with people who’d been in care, were homeless or who’d experienced abuse. I was interested in their stories and experiences; in understanding what had shaped them. It was amazing and humbling to be alongside people as they faced their challenges, and found ways to heal.
Every day I continue to be inspired by seeing the changes people have made to themselves and their lives as a result of coming to counselling.
Curiosity, compassion and gentle humour are key parts of who I am and what you’ll experience working with me.
If you think I could be the right counsellor for you, just contact me via the form below.
My professional qualifications and training
- Postgraduate Diploma (L7) in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy – University of South Wales
- Certificate in Trauma Therapy – The Grove Practice
- Postgraduate Certificate (L7) in Counselling Skills – University of South Wales
- HE Diploma in Youth, Community and Playwork – Birmingham University
- Certificate in Working with Sexual Violence – West Mercia Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre
- EFT Levels 1 & 2 – The Energy Centre, London