“A moment of self-compassion can change your entire day. A string of such moments can change the course of your life.”
Christopher Germer
What is counselling?
Life can be challenging, It can often be hard to make sense of thoughts and feelings and understand what’s stopping us from moving forwards. You don't have to do this alone.
Counselling provides the opportunity to talk confidentially with someone outside of your immediate circle. I believe the relationship between client and counsellor is integral to the counselling process. My role is to listen with empathy and be fully alongside you, so that I can understand your world as it is for you.
It's only human for us to seek the support of others, be in relationship and feel connected, but relationships and life can be complex.Through my own personal experience and work with clients, I have seen that talking to a professional who is caring, non-judgemental and 100% focused on you can bring awareness, healing and transformation. It can also facilitate insights into internal judgements, beliefs, thoughts and patterns of behaviour, as well as lead to self-compassion, freeing you to feel lighter, which can in turn be the catalyst for long-term change and a new inner confidence.
Therapy doesn't have to be long-term. You may need help if you are dealing with loss, health issues, changing jobs, leaving a relationship, stepping up in your career, or entering retirement. Counselling can help you navigate difficult periods of transition in your life.
I truly believe that with time, empathy, and understanding, everyone can grow to reach their full potential and live the life they wish for.
My Training & Approach
As an integrative counsellor I work flexibly, using different therapeutic techniques to suit your individual needs. I’m trained in person-centred therapy, CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), psychodynamic, and TA relational therapy. You can find out more about these different approaches on the BACP website here: https://www.bacp.co.uk/about-therapy/types-of-therapy/
The areas I specialise in include:
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Trauma
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Unresolved childhood and relationship issues
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Grief, loss and bereavement
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Anxiety
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Depression
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Low self-esteem
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Stress in the workplace
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Relationships and family problems
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Bullying
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Addictions, cravings and eating disorders
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Obsessive behaviours
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Change and transition
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Self identity; including sexual and gender
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Sleep problems, menopause and dementia.
In addition to traditional in person talking therapy, I also offer:
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Online therapy: via a secure online connection
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Eco therapy: Walking and talking in nature
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Horticultural therapy: Working outside with plants
My Experience
I have worked for many years in the charity, mental health and education sectors and prior to that within the corporate sector, I therefore have extensive experience of working with a diverse range of adults and adolescents. I am a qualified and registered member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy and have a Diploma in Integrative Therapeutic Counselling, which includes Counselling Young People. I am also fully committed to continued professional development and have acquired Certificates in the following areas:
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Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling Inc Working with young people aged 11-18
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Certificates 2 & 3 In Therapeutic Counselling as well as:
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Safeguarding Level 3
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Bereavement Awareness
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Self Esteem
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Using Embodied TA to Enhance Your Practice
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Being An Effective Therapist
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Working With Autism
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Working With Trauma
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Working With Suicide and Self Harm
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Working With Relational Trauma and Disorganised Attachment
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Working With Addiction
I currently work at a sixth form college as a counsellor and also run a private practice in Dummer and Tadley near Basingstoke.
Both of my private practices are surrounded by beautiful countryside and peaceful, picturesque walks. My clients have often taken advantage of these prior to and after sessions to experience a period of calm and the opportunity to reflect on sessions.
Scentific evidence shows that spending time outside and being more mindful of our environment can help us to feel rejuvenated, relaxed and more confident in ourselves. Couple this with relational human contact and you will start to feel less anxious and more positive. I have experience of horticultural therapy. Working with clients in a garden; learning about plants and herbs, and planting and nurturing has an extremely positive effect on mental health and well-being.
My dog, Alfie is a Jackapoo. He is very friendly and would happily be involved in all the sessions. I generally try not to include him to avoid disruptions to the session. However, if you feel his presence would be helpful and soothing then that can be arranged.
My comfortable, private rooms are separate to the house and therefore our sessions won't be interrupted. I also provide private parking on-site for your convenience.
No matter which approach we decide to take, I’m here to support you without judgment, helping you move forward at your own pace.
Office hours:
Monday: 10.00am - 19:00pm
Tuesday: 09.00am - 17:00pm
Wednesday: 15.00pm - 16:00pm
Thursday: 09.00am - 19:00pm
Friday: 10.00am - 17.00pm
Locations:
Dummer, Tadley and Online