About Me
I started having therapy following a cancer diagnosis in 2017, which involved surgery and some frightening treatment. Having spent many years caring for a loved one with dementia, this period of my life felt overwhelming.
At first, it seemed that my diagnosis was the main reason I needed support. However, as therapy progressed, many other experiences emerged, some stretching back to my early years. These included bereavement, bullying, sexual abuse and coming to terms with my sexuality. Therapy gave me the opportunity to explore these experiences in a way I never had before.
It felt as though I was exploring my experiences and feelings more deeply and, with each session, I felt freer, more empowered and more able to embrace change. There were many tears along the way, but they became an important part of my healing.
Those experiences taught me that healing is rarely about finding quick answers. It's about having a safe relationship in which you can explore your experiences, make sense of them, and gradually discover new ways of relating to yourself and others.
Wanting to give something back, I joined the Samaritans and the LGBTQIA+ Switchboard, supporting callers through a wide range of life experiences. I discovered that being alongside people during some of their most difficult moments was both a privilege and enormously rewarding.
This inspired me to undertake a Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy, and I now have the privilege of supporting clients from a wide range of backgrounds.
I am a genuine, warm and gentle therapist, who gives clients the time and space they need. In our sessions, I'll meet you where you are and we'll work together in a way that feels right for you. Where it feels appropriate, I may gently help you explore patterns or ways of thinking that may no longer be serving you.
Therapy isn't always easy. At times it can feel challenging, but meaningful change often comes from exploring experiences that may initially feel uncomfortable. We'll work together at a pace that feels right for you, and I'll support you throughout the process.
Training and Qualifications
I am a BACP-registered person-centred integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist with a Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy from the University of East London. Before training as a counsellor, I completed a BSc (Hons) in Psychology, which provided a strong foundation in psychological theory, human behaviour and mental health.
Alongside my formal qualifications, I have gained valuable experience supporting people in emotional distress through my work as a volunteer with the Samaritans and the LGBTQIA+ Switchboard. These roles have strengthened my skills in active listening, empathy, risk awareness and supporting people from a wide range of backgrounds and life experiences.
During my clinical training, I worked with adults across a variety of counselling placements, supporting clients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, identity-related concerns and many other emotional challenges. These experiences have enabled me to work with people from diverse backgrounds, each with their own unique story.
My approach is rooted in person-centred therapy and informed by a range of evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is an important part of my practice. I regularly undertake additional training to keep my knowledge current and continue developing my skills. Areas of ongoing learning include trauma-informed practice, safeguarding, risk assessment, embodied approaches, Polyvagal Theory, responding to disclosures of sexual violence, diversity and inclusion, and ethical practice.
As a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), I work in accordance with the BACP Ethical Framework and attend regular clinical supervision to support reflective practice and ensure that I continue to provide a safe, ethical and professional service.
Qualifications
Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) in Counselling and Psychotherapy – University of East London
BSc (Hons) in Psychology – Open University
Professional Membership
Registered Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)
Voluntary Experience
Samaritans – Volunteer Support Listener
LGBTQIA+ Switchboard – Volunteer Support Listener