I am trained to actively listen, understand your point of view and to accept you as you are. This unique relationship is supportive and enormously comforting.
Everyone experiences problems in their lives. Family and friends can be a help. Sometimes though, people feel they need an outsiders view, to help them see things from a different perspective.
Problems are experienced differently by each person. In turn this means your therapy will evolve from the unique relationship you make with me. Evidence has shown that this relationship is the vital ingredient before any changes can occur.
Most problems clients bring are about relationships that aren't working well. Understanding how you relate to others will be the most important thing you learn in counselling. Seeing your situation differently, and changing behaviours that are detrimental will always influence relationships.
Many of my counselling clients extend their sessions once their issue is resolved for Personal Development. This involves spending more time learning about what makes them tick as an individual, changing unhelpful habits or behaviours and uncovering hidden strengths so that they can fulfil their potential.
I started my career in the City, working in the IT industry, in various banking institutions. I then helped to set up the first After School Club in the Sevenoaks area which ran successfully for a number of years.
I moved to Nairobi, Kenya with a work contract and when I returned became an Adult Mental Health Support worker in the community. I did this for seven years. A natural progression for me was to train as a Counsellor. I took several certificates in counselling, then graduated from West Kent College with an Advanced Diploma In Humanistic Counselling. Several years later I passed the BACP Accreditation.
Since 2004 I have worked as a counsellor in a variety of settings, which has given me a broad range of clients and experience. These include several charities, an NHS surgery, a Family Support Unit and a number of secondary schools in Kent. I now have a busy Private Practice at home. In addition I work for several EAP (Employment Assistance Providers) providers.
I registered with BUPA several years ago. This means clients who have private health insurance with BUPA can apply to have some counselling sessions paid for with me.
I am an Integrative Counsellor as I make use of various types of counselling theories. These include Person Centred, Transactional Analysis, Gestalt, Psychosynthesis and CBT. In addition I often use relaxation and visualisation exercises.
I am guided by the BACP code of ethics, which includes regular supervision to enhance my practice. I attend workshops and training to keep my knowledge updated.