Since the Coronavirus (Covid-19) crisis, I've been offering online as well as face-to-face counselling, psychotherapy and cognitive behavioural coaching. Please call me on 07949 685885 for a brief chat, or email me so we can assess your needs together.
About me
I'm an accredited counsellor/psychotherapist with the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy).
With over 50,000 members, BACP is the largest professional body representing counselling and psychotherapy in the UK. Counsellor/psychotherapists and coaches aren't regulated in this country, so it's important to be sure that the person you choose is a qualified and experienced professional.
As well as being transparent about their qualifications and background, most responsible practitioners will belong to a well-respected professional body with its own standards of conduct and ethical framework.
BACP accreditation
Around a quarter of BACP members are accredited. According to BACP, "Accreditation is a higher quality standard for our more experienced members. To become accredited, members must complete many hours of training, practice and supervision and go through our rigorous application and assessment process."
Professional qualifications and skills
I have a Post Graduate Diploma in Psychosynthesis Counselling from the Psychosynthesis Trust, validated by the University of East London. Psychosynthesis places emphasis on unlocking human potential as well as dealing with problems and obstacles to growth.
I've carried on learning thoughout my career and now work with many different approaches and techniques, drawing on whatever seems most appropriate for each individual.
People are unique and there's no 'one size fits all' in personal therapy. So for example, we may look at how the unconscious mind - shaped by past experiences - affects your present experience (psychodynamic psychotherapy). But it can also be helpful focus on acceptance and change using tools such as mindfulness, cognitive behavioural therapy or solution-focused therapy.
Don't be put off by the many different labels attached to different kinds of counselling. Essentially, we'll work together to find what helps you the most.
Cognitive behavioural coaching
I hold a Certificate in Cognitive Behavioural Coaching from the Centre for Coaching, recognised by the BPS (British Psychological Society). I've provided coaching to employees and managers in several public and private sector organisations. I also draw on coaching techniques when appropriate with counselling clients who are ready to take practical steps towards change.
BACP voluntary register
I'm on the BACP Register of Counsellors and Psychotherapists, which was the first psychological therapists' register to be accredited under a scheme set up by the Department of Health. The scheme means that, for the first time, members of the public can choose a counsellor or psychotherapist belonging to a register approved by the Professional Standards Authority for Health and Social Care.
I abide by BACP's Ethical Framework for Good Practice.
Professional background
Before training as a counsellor and coach, I had a long career in marketing communications so I understand the pressures of the working environment. I've also delivered training to organisations on behavioural change in the workplace.
Looking for a counsellor in Bristol, or online counselling?
Please email me, or call 07949 685885.