Postgraduate Diploma In Counselling,  MBACP, Certificate in Supervision

I am a person centred counsellor with 8 years experience of counselling both adults and young people in a range of different settings, including the NHS, schools, college, prison and in private practice. 

I did my counselling training at Strathclyde University, which had a person centred orientation and this is the approach that underpins all of my practice. I have now completed my training as a person centred counselling supervisor (PCT Professional Development). I  keep in touch with theoretical issues and practice through membership of BACP and PCT Scotland (www.pctscotland.co.uk).  

I currently work part time as counsellor in a couple of secondary schools and a further education college. I am also working as a supervisor with Cruse Bereavement Care (www.crusebereavementcare.org.uk) and with individual counsellors.

When I was training as a counsellor I did all my practice with Open Secret (www.opensecret.org) a voluntary organisation working with survivors of sexual abuse. I have continued my connection with the organisation and at the moment provide supervision to group workers co-facilitating groups. 

I have done a lot of work with people who have been abused and with people who self harm. I am especially keen to support individuals dealing with these concerns. I am a member of the Scottish Self Harm Forum (www.penumbra.org.uk) which seeks to raise awareness of this issue and improve services.

Who I am as a counsellor  

I enjoy counselling and the opportunity it gives me to be with people when they need that extra support. I believe that I am approachable and responsive. I try to create a space where people feel safe, not criticised, and where it is possible to talk about things that can feel difficult and painful.

 It is my view that there are times in most people’s life when friends and family may not be enough to help us get through and that is when counselling can be useful. It gives you time for you. Time that is yours to look at and talk about what is relevant to you and to come to a place that feels right for you. 

I don’t tell people what to do. I know  it is important for each individual to find their own solutions and perspective. I work hard to ensure that I support each person in a way that feels helpful.