About Me
Biography
In 2006, after a successful career in finance, I followed my dream of using my previous experiences of exclusion, stigma, vulnerability and disability to work in the health and well-being sector. Initially qualifying in occupational therapy, I worked in the third sector gaining expertise in employment support and mental health. This led me to work with individuals experiencing acute periods of post-natal depression, anxiety and depression, and those living with chronic conditions such as bipolar, clinical depression and schizophrenia, physical disability, neuro-diversity and addiction. This led me to become a therapeutic counsellor
Professional ethics
As a registered member of the BACP and ACC, I adhere to their ethical framework, which includes maintaining confidentiality and anonymity of all my clients. I undertake regular supervision with an experienced qualified BACP therapist. I am registered with the Information Commissioner's Office.
Training and Qualifications
Qualifications
Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling, Waverley Abbey College (awarding body Middlesex University)
BSC (Hons) Occupational Therapy, Brunel University
Fellow of Association of Chartered Certified Accountants
BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance, Plymouth University
Membership bodies
My Approach
Through previous experiences of exclusion stigma vulnerability and disability I can offer a therapeutic relationship that is safe, confidential, non–judgemental compassionate supportive space to explore anything that is troubling you. Together, there would be the opportunity to find the best way forward for you to be able to a more meaningful, purposeful, and contented way of being by building a compassionate awareness of who you are and how you function from your story. By understanding and working through earlier experiences this can be the key to emotional resilience empowerment and positive change. I am experienced at working with complex situations with an integrative approach that can be creative, flexible and adaptable to engage you in a person-centred recovery journey.
My work is informed by my core training as an integrative counsellor and occupational therapist, which draws on different theoretical models to suit your needs, such as relational, person centred; psychodynamic, spiritual, Kawa and the model of human occupation.
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As a person who has lived her entire life managing disabilities while navigating a world where difference is often seen as a problem rather than as a blessing. I bring a wealth of experience to support those with disabilities as well as their partners, families, and carers. I understand the difficulties in coming to terms with the living with a disability/medical condition whether new, or long term, as well as trying to adapt to a lifestyle that often involves new challenges every day. I understand the impact of trauma, mentally and physically. I understand the grief of loss of aspects of life either taken away or never been available to you. I understand the coping strategies that perhaps have been beneficial short term yet become destructive over time (i.e. addictions). I understand the anxiety and depression that goes hand in hand with being different. I can walk alongside you, to help find your true authentic self to become happy in your own skin. I have walked that walk.
