Finder

Specialises in

• Applied Relaxation
• Counselling

• Mindfulness based CBT
• Psychotherapy

• Trauma focused CBT

Offers

• Face-to-face consultations
• Video and telephone consultations

About me

Introduction

I am an experienced counsellor, psychotherapist, supervisor and teacher. I have been a counsellor and psychotherapist for over thirty-five years.

I work with a wide range of clients and presenting issues. I have worked in many settings including: private practice, employee assistance programmes, University, Further Education and Secondary Schools. I have also spent six years working in a therapeutic centre, with young people who experienced severe emotional and behavioural difficulties. My experience of working in several large organisations and as a manager, gives me an understanding of the issues associated with the workplace and within teams.

What To Expect

I aim to make your experience of counselling or psychotherapy friendly, supportive, creative, encouraging and non-judgemental.

Our exploration will take place mainly through talking. It will sometimes be helpful to draw upon other things such as: literature, art, drama, play, body awareness and meditation / mindfulness. Our meetings will involve being curious and open, bringing humour and seriousness, with opportunities to try things out and experiment in a safe environment.

I believe in the value of what is sometimes called psychological education. As a result, I will encourage you to explore ideas about human development and, as we work, I will share my thinking and theories with you. I will give you regular assignments to complete outside sessions. Above all, we will work at your pace and in a way which suits you and helps you to resolve your difficulties.

My experience of meditation highlights the value of 'slowing down'and to paying attention to details of our inner and outer experiences. We will look at what is going badly in your life and I will encourage you to be curious about and to consolidate what's going well. We will discuss and try things out, with a view to empowering your 'creator' within.

Equality & Diversity

I recognise that many individuals and communities experience discrimination and oppression on the grounds of their gender (including transgender and transsexual people), relationship or marital status, race or ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation (because they are lesbian, gay, bisexual or heterosexual), age, health status, appearance, language, background, class, faith or religious belief, physical appearance and political opinions. I believe that equality for all is a basic human right and I actively oppose all forms of unlawful and unfair discrimination. I welcome discussion of these issues in counselling and psychotherapy.

Professional Accreditation

I am an Accredited member of the British Association For Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP). I hold an enhanced DBS Check for working with young people, adults and vulnerable adults.

Qualifications

2023 - Certificate in Trauma-Informed Mindfulness (Bethlehem Tertiary Institute, New Zealand)

2023 - Accredited Member: The Foundation For Infant Loss Training

2009 - Karuna Institute (Devon)
Diploma Course in Contemplative Supervision

2006 - Oxford Cognitive Therapy Centre
Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)

2006 - Sensorimotor Institute (University of Austen, Texas)
Understanding Trauma: Principles and Practice

2005 - Tavistock and Portman NHS Trust
Understanding Trauma: Principles and Practice

2001 - Minster Centre London
Diploma In Integrative Psychotherapy

1998 - Adlerian Society and Institute For Individual Psychology
Certificate In Adlerian Family Counselling

1995 - The City University (London)
Certificate In Continuing Education: Art Therapy

1994 - Adlerian Society and Institute For Individual Psychology (London)
Diploma In Adlerian Counselling

1993 - University of East London
Masters Degree (M.A.) in Counselling Psychology

1990 - University of East London
Postgraduate Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling (BACP accredited course)

1987 - Open University
Bachelor of Arts Degree

1978 - Queen's University Belfast
Bachelor of Education Degree

Areas of interest

I have extensive experience of working with clients of various ages and from many backgrounds and cultures. I have worked with many issues, including the following:

Relationships and family issues
Personal development and identity
Sex and sexuality
Confidence and self-esteem
Depression and anxiety
Stress and relaxation
Work and study issues
Time management & procrastination
Worries about the future
Death related concerns
Bereavement and loss
Maximising your performance
Spirituality and meaning
Decision making and dealing with change
Isolation and loneliness
Experiences of prejudice and discrimination
Anger management
Experiences of harassment and crime
Physical health concerns
Confidence and self-esteem issues