About Me

I am an independent member of the BACP and have been assessed and accepted onto the BACP Register a register that is approved by the Professional Standards Authority for Health and Social Care.

I am bound by the BACP Code of Ethics & Practice.

MY COUNSELLING AND SUPERVISION QUALIFICATIONS

• Advanced Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling
• Diploma in the art and science of Neuro Linguistic Programming
• Diploma in understanding and working with weight management
• BACP endorsed Hypnotherapy course
• Certificate in Transactional Analysis Counselling 101
• Certificate in Counselling Supervision
• Diploma in couples – family mediation

I have also completed training courses in youth counselling, bereavement, difference and diversity, and eating disorders, together with 7 years’ experience in group process encompassing CBT, TA and NLP models of counselling.

I am a qualified supervisor and provide supervision to qualified and trainee counsellors.

COUNSELLING HISTORY

I qualified as a counsellor in 2004 offering psychological support to a client base that encompasses both the private and voluntary sectors; I have worked extensively within the field of anxiety and depression and regard this as a specialism.

I worked for 9 years as a volunteer counsellor for Victim Support a national charity, supporting the victims of crime.

My counselling placement work involved 2 years at Turning Point supporting clients impacted by drug and alcohol misuse and also 2 years at Riverside ECHG supporting people in their recovery and longer-term housing needs

MY COUNSELLING APPROACH

My counselling approach is friendly, light, empathic and non-judgmental. I feel that my work and outlook benefits from both my life experiences working within the prison and probation service and from the extensive and diverse client groups I have worked with.

I work intuitively using the various elements of different counselling models that best tailor themselves to each individual client and their needs. I believe that at our deepest level everyone has the desire and capacity to fulfil their own true potential. I also believe that we all have within us a motivating force for positive change and growth if given the right environment to nurture this ability.

MEDIA CONTRIBUTIONS

I have in the past made several contributions to newspapers [1][2][3] and local radio in relation to mental health stigma and the misuse of food and alcohol and have taken part in a documentary for a SKY artsprogramme on similar topics.

Outside of counselling I enjoy chess, reading, sport and reliving my youth via my grandchildren.

I am also a trustee for a local charity (Gasped) which offers support for people encountering drugs and alcohol.

MAY I HELP?

If you’re thinking of seeking counselling within reach of the Wakefield area, either as an individual or as part of a couple then do give me a call or text on 07599 386481 or contact me by email.

There is more practical information about fees, the meeting place etc. on my Practicalities page.