A Little Bit About Me
Hello, I too have been in your shoes wondering what to do next and how to make sense of how I feel. My search for an answer led me to counselling and from there I developed a passion and interest in personal growth and self-development. For me it isn’t just about understanding myself it is also about the attitude I have towards myself as I start to find a way through. Each person I work with is unique and brings with them the history of all the different influences on their life – the positive and negative.
What I came to understand is there are so many different messages that we collect about ourselves that need updating. Initially I did look to find out how to change myself so that I was how I was supposed to be – whatever that meant. Gradually what I did discover was how to understand and listen to myself. I am not sure who first used the idea of asking what happened to you rather than what is wrong with you, but I find it so useful. Finding out how to offer myself compassion and warmth allowed me to be able to offer that to others. What at first seems weird and crazy can make sense in the unique set of circumstances that you have had to navigate in your own life. There is something very powerful in having a relationship where you are seen, and accepted exactly as you are.
I have learned to recognise my own needs, to know what brings me joy and how to ride the ups and downs that are part of life. I believe you can too. This is why I trained as a Counsellor and continue with my own self awareness and personal growth.
When I am not working you will find me enjoying living by the sea and all the opportunities that brings. I use meditation, yoga and running to support my own mental health. For me I find being in nature can settle me and bring me back to a sense of ease and calm.
My Experience and Qualifications
I am a qualified and accredited Counsellor with over 10 years’ experience. I have worked in both national and local charities in a paid and voluntary capacity. The adults I have worked with at Mind and Rephael House Counselling Centre self-referred with anxiety, depression and both work and personal stress. My initial experience was with a local bereavement charity and Place2be working in schools in London.
I have listed my relevant qualifications below and hold up to date safeguarding training and a registered DBS. I have additional training in working in a trauma informed way and continually update my skills with professional development. As an accredited member of BACP, I abide by their code of ethical practice and undertake regular clinical supervision. My qualifications include:
- Level 5 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling
- Level 4 Certificate in Counselling Children (Place2be)
- Certificate in Counselling Teenagers (IATE)
- Certificate in Embodied Therapeutic Practice
I have a regular mindfulness practise and have qualified as a Mindfulness teacher.
“If you can learn to look at yourself and your life in a gentle, creative and adventurous way, you will be eternally surprised at what you find”
John O Donohue
