I originally trained in a cognitive-behavioural model of counselling and now work as an integrative, humanistic practitioner.
This means that I negotiate to use a variety of techniques and strategies with the person having counselling and that paying attention to the quality of the relationship between us is central to the work.
The counselling process would normally follow three phases, which are:
(i) to explore and understand the problem; (ii) to look at what the person would like to change or manage differently and (iii) to work together on strategies to bring about change.
I work to both time-limited and open-ended contracts.
As a therapist I work with a wide range of psychological and emotional issues and have particular expertise in the areas of loss/bereavement, sexual abuse and dissociation.
My training in Somatic Trauma Therapy is particularly useful in working with Post-Traumatic Stress and trauma.
This approach involves both cognitive and body work (usually without using touch) and the emphasis is on gentle paced work that does not re-traumatise the client.
The aim of therapy is to enable the client to psychologically resolve and integrate traumatic experience and restore lost physical reflexes.
It does not involve ‘re-living’ the trauma and the focus of the work is on developing the client’s strengths and resources, establishing feelings of safety and restoring body-mind balance.
My supervision experience encompasses working with counsellors, psychotherapists, clinical and forensic psychologists, managers, drug and alcohol workers and alternative therapists.
I regularly act as a trainer and consultant to counselling organisations in the UK and Ireland.
I have written several books and chapters on aspects of counselling, training and supervision.