We all feel down at times, we are all flawed and we all occasionally make mistakes at times. That's part and parcel of being human, - it's not your fault.

Often things happen which are out of our control, but we do have control over how we respond, and that's where I'd like to be able to help you.

You've already taken a major step forward in terms of getting this far - well done!

To take the next step, contact me by email/text or phone. Together, we can create a safe space where I won't judge you. We can talk about how you're finding life and its challenges. I'll then work alongside you to find ways which will help you get a greater sense of calm and balance, more able to live the rest of your life with renewed purpose.

Who I talk to, where, when and how

WHO

I talk to all adults from 16+, for whatever reason. Nothing is too trivial

Many of my clients are in their twenties or thirties, sometimes describing uncertainty over their future and a sense of a lack of direction. They may describe not wanting to burden their friends or family any more: talking to a ‘stranger’ who won’t judge them, and who will keep their conversations confidential can seem like a ‘release’.

Many clients come with experience of a well-lived life which may have hit a bit of a wall which seems insurmountable or at least challenging to navigate. Ill health for themselves or people close to them may present difficulties, as can coping with possibly unexpected loneliness or loss.

WHERE

I see local clients in person but also work nationally and internationally with clients by phone or on a range of video platforms (my insurance covers me to work globally).

WHEN, HOW IT STARTS, AND GOES ON ...

Sessions last 50 minutes each, usually weekly or fortnightly in order to retain a sense of rhythm and continuity. Having said that, I want to ensure you get what you need out of the sessions so I can be flexible.

I always suggest that we have an initial phone conversation lasting 10-20 minutes so that we can introduce ourselves to each other and you can give me some idea as to what has brought you to this point (even if you're not entirely sure). You can find out more about me too. I don't charge for this call.

We'll then discuss the best way to move forward, when, where and how we can meet. I'm very flexible regarding my working hours too - daytimes or evenings and very occasionally weekends.

WHERE WE GO FROM HERE, AND HOW IT ENDS

Over the course of anything from just one or two sessions to more, working together we will seek ways of reaching a point where you have the confidence to continue on your own.

Once we have uncovered the reasons lying behind the initial counselling approach we focus on unpicking these, exploring the detail. This may involve searching the past, friend and family relationships, generational trauma, previous experiences of seeking help. If meeting face to face, and only if you are comfortable with the approach, I may make use of ‘creative’ counselling approaches in order to gain a clearer picture of the relationships in your life, for example, or to use music or art to help you express your feelings and beliefs.

I may introduce mindfulness and mindful meditation techniques too if I feel they could be of value to you, but only if you are in agreement to learn about them and give them a try. For most people, clear, easy to use techniques can become valuable tools to learn, such as those typically used in CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy).

WHY ME?

I have a relaxed, friendly, approachable style. I think I'm unshockable thanks to having talked to thousands of people during my working life combined with my own life experiences. I practice strictly ethically, respecting confidentiality in line with BACP guidelines, underpinned by insurance and supervision. I regularly attend courses of particular interest in areas such as anxiety, trauma and grief.

Finally my own background: I was born to an English dad and a Norwegian mum who spent a lot of their lives in Africa and the Middle East, ensuring a love of travel in my genes. I have raised three children who are now in their twenties. I am used to being a mum, a daughter, sibling, and single parent, and have some understanding of the issues young people face as they navigate the uncertain and frequently challenging world in which they find themselves. In addition to this, I find my own experiences of loss and a relatively recent diagnosis of MS help make my counselling approach empathic and non-judgemental.

Take that final step and text or call me, I really look forward to hearing from you.

TRAINING, QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

Post graduate diploma in Counselling from University of Bristol 2012, (an integrative course)

Ex volunteer Cruse Bereavement

Ex volunteer with Safe Haven (MIND, Hereford)

Breathworks Mindfulness training (first stage)

In addition to my my private practice, I work with PsyCoach carrying out TV participant support and assessments for a variety of TV Production companies.