If you are considering counselling, this is your first step to making a change. For many people counselling can appear a daunting and even frightening prospect. Every journey begins with a single step, and this is where I would like to help support you along yours.
I am a Person Centred Counsellor, trained to Advanced Practitioner Level since 2006, and an Accredited Member of The British Association for Counsellors and Psychotherapists. I adhere to their code of ethics and attend regular one-to-one supervision.
Clinical Experience
My clinical experience has been gained working with adults and children in both an NHS setting (Liverpool Women's Hospital) and in the Voluntary Sector (Oldham Bereavement Support Services). I work with a number of Employee Assistance Programme companies, insurance companies, and I am a BUPA recognised therapist.
My theoretical approach is integrative, drawing on Person Centred, Systemic Therapy, brief solution focused therapy, narrative therapy, directive and non-directive approaches, and creative therapies such as writing, drawing, relaxation techniques and guided imagery.
I have experience of counselling clients in hospital environments, in their homes, in education settings, workplaces and in private practice. I have experience of crisis and critical response, such as a sudden or traumatic death, and I am able to work with individuals, families or groups depending on what is required.
Specialist Areas
I have a special interest in bereavement and loss, and have undertaken training in 'end of life work' as part of my role with Oldham Bereavement Support Services. I have completed a Systemic Family Therapy Foundation Level Course and attained a Merit Certification. I have attended Macmillan training in supporting cancer patients and their families, and qualified as a supervisor in 2017.
I gained experience in couple counselling in my role as a Fertility Counsellor at Liverpool Women's Hospital's Fertility Unit (The Hewitt Centre). This required sensitivity, empathy and warmth in a non-judgmental manner, working with clients experiencing distress, feelings of inadequacy, and challenges in their relationships and self-esteem.
Over the years I have developed skills in understanding the emotional and psychological needs of clients, with an awareness and appreciation of socio-cultural differences — ensuring I can counsel my clients to a high standard.
Outside of my private practice I work one day a week at the Oldham Cancer Support Centre, supporting cancer sufferers and their family members.