What kind of therapies do you offer?
I am an integrative therapist, which means I have trained in a variety of counselling theories and methods and therefore can tailor therapy to you. This includes Psychodynamic Therapy, Person-Centred Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Transactional Analysis, Attachment-Based Therapy and Gestalt. I frequently find that creative interventions work especially well with clients: This includes tools such as drawing, creative writing, photography, music, clay, role play or using objects (e.g. stones, toys, Russian dolls and sand-trays). As we get to know each other, we will develop the style of working that best suits your needs and we can review this as therapy progresses. Counselling is about working together: I will walk alongside you, supporting and encouraging you, but you are the expert about yourself! Therefore, the pace of the work and the goals set will be what you want them to be.
What experience do you have?
I am an accredited member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy), which means I adhere to their ethical and professional frameworks. Accredited status is the next level of experience up from registered member and is described on the BACP website as follows: "Some registered members choose to demonstrate their achievement of high standards of knowledge, experience and development by applying for accredited status. To become an accredited member, a counsellor must have had training that meets our specific requirements and completed at least three years of supervised clinical practice. The application involves a rigorous assessment process that can take up to six months to complete."
I have 17 years of experience working in the drug and alcohol addiction sector (7 years as a counsellor). This includes working in prisons, community drug services and currently in a residential rehabilitation centre. Therefore, I specialise in addictions, but can also work with a wide range of issues such as stress, work-related issues, relationship issues, loss and bereavement, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma and faith/spirituality.
Is counselling confidential?
Yes – I strongly believe in the importance of providing a safe, non-judgemental and confidential space for counselling. Confidentiality is essential in helping you to feel free to be honest regardless of your concerns, background and beliefs. I understand that trust is not a given and can feel risky or scary. Therefore, I will not force you to talk beyond a pace or depth that you are comfortable with. We will discuss confidentiality from the outset and both sign up to a contract which outlines this, including the few exceptions (for example if you or another person are at serious risk of harm).
How long and how often are the sessions?
Sessions are usually 50 minutes, but this can be extended or reduced when appropriate. Generally, most clients like to meet weekly, but we can do fortnightly or even monthly if this is better. Sometimes clients start with weekly sessions and later in therapy wish to reduce the frequency as we work towards an ending. We will discuss at the beginning whether you are interested in shorter or longer-term therapy, but don’t worry if you’re not sure: We will review things throughout.
Where do you work?
I can offer either online or face-to-face sessions (based near Reading).
Who do you work with?
Adults (18 years and above). I do not work with children or offer couples therapy.