About me
I’m an integrative psychotherapist and counsellor, and for more than 25 years I have worked in the caring professions in both the statutory and charitable sectors. Through one-to-one counselling and group work, I have supported people struggling with a wide range of difficulties, including addictions, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, shame and low self-esteem.
I have extensive experience in supporting people to cope with both the everyday challenges of life as well as more serious trauma. In particular, I have specialist training in working with addictions of all kinds, including compulsive sexual behaviours and problematic use of pornography, and in
supporting family members affected by others’ behaviours in these areas.
I am registered with The British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (membership number 402635) and I work to their codes of conduct in terms of ethics, confidentiality and general good practice.
My training was at the University of East London where I completed a postgraduate Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy. I also have degrees in Philosophy and in Community Justice.
I am knowledgeable about both the criminal justice system and safeguarding processes. I have undertaken research into the prevention of internet-related child sexual abuse, and co-authored a number of academic papers in this area. I also work as an expert witness in the family courts.
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What is your approach?Everyone is unique, and as an integrative psychotherapist and counsellor, I tailor my way of working to meet your needs and preferences. This means that I draw upon my knowledge of different approaches. For example, we might agree to focus on more immediate 'live' issues within your life, or you might wish to reflect on past experiences and relationships and their legacy. Or both. Alternatively, you might want a safe space of your own to talk freely, to be heard and validated, or you might welcome more of a dialogue. Of course, a lot of people at the start of counselling aren't sure what approach will be most helpful, and I place value on discussion and collaboration as we steer ourselves towards a rhythm and style that is right for you. One of my key goals is to develop a strong, warm and authentic relationship with you, which research suggests is at the heart of effective therapy. My approach is also underpinned by my awareness that we all live within a wider society whose structures directly impact on people's unique experiences and opportunities. This is true of counselling, too, and I am committed to culturally-informed, anti-oppressive practice. Finally, my philosophy is informed by my beliefs in people's capacity for change, in their resilience, and in their ability to find the right answers for them - to make their change.
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What happens in the introductory session?Our first session would involve a deeper exploration of the issues that bring you to counselling and gathering more information about your background and situation. It’s also a chance for us to meet each other and for you to get a sense of what having counselling with me might be like. I offer this session at a reduced rate.
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How long will we work together?This varies for every client: there is no set time frame. What is important is that we regularly review how things are going for you, both in counselling and in your life more generally.
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How regular are sessions?At the outset I prefer to have weekly sessions so that we can get to know each other and build some momentum. With time, sometimes people like to drop down to fortnightly or even monthly sessions. After you finish counselling, my door remains open for one-off, ad hoc sessions, depending on my availability.
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What actually happens in counselling?Everyone’s experience is unique but, in essence, people talk through whatever is on their mind in order to develop their awareness of the connections between their experiences, behaviours, relationships and emotions so that they can lead a more fulfilling life. Talking about these kinds of personal issues within the context of a counselling relationship can be very empowering: sometimes we only know what we think and feel when we hear ourselves say it.
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Confidentiality, privacy and data protectionWhat we talk about will remain confidential. Under exceptional circumstances, such as serious concern for your safety or the safety of others, I may be required to break confidentiality in order to inform the relevant authorities. If so, I would endeavour to first discuss this with you. Therapeutic material is discussed in clinical supervision to ensure an ethical and high-quality service. You can read more about my privacy policy and approach to data protection here