About me
I have an advanced diploma in Contemporary Psychotherapy. ‘The word “con-tempo-rary” means literally “with time” or “moving in time”. Contemporary Psychotherapy is an integrative, outcome-oriented approach that draws on the diversity of traditional theory according to the best current knowledge, in respect of the client’s context, resources and needs. Therefore therapy may be brief, mid-term or longer term.’ (Gawler-Wright, P. 2004-13).
Put simply, the approach is client-centred according to your individual circumstances and needs. Being integrative ensures that a variety of ‘models’ are incorporated into our work together; being outcome-oriented means that I will ask you what you would like to be different and what your goals for therapy are.
Prior to re-training as a psychotherapist I worked in the field of education for seven years, in pastoral care, and social care for seven years as a Family Support Worker. Over time I have developed a keen interest in relationships; for three years I entered the specialist field of working with victims / survivors of domestic violence and abuse. This broadened to relationships in general: how we develop specific patterns of relating (usually formed in childhood) and how unhealthy patterns can develop; how we can form new and healthier behaviours and ways of relating and, most important of all, how we can nurture our relationships with ourselves.
In addition to this and the spectrum of mental health issues that many of us experience from time to time, I have a keen interest in supporting persons affected by a close family member who has a diagnosis of (or is displaying symptoms associated with) Bi-Polar disorder. While there are numerous support systems for sufferers of this condition, which is as it should be, there are scant, if any, services that are specifically for the persons directly affected.
Being the recipient of a loved one’s mental illness can be a frightening and lonely place to be; being able to speak openly about your feelings is critical for your self care. I see a therapist myself; I value the opportunity to explore my life with someone who can offer what I offer you: a non-judgemental, empathic view which can help to bring clarity.
I also believe that it is important that I never forget how it feels to be the recipient of therapy as well as the provider.
Credentials
- Registered with: UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP), Registration number: 2011165677
- Advanced Diploma in Contemporary Psychotherapy (BeeLeaf Institute for Contemporary Psychotherapy), www.beeleaf.com
- Accredited and Registered Member of the Community of Contemporary Psychotherapy Membership number: 3610
Affiliations
Health Insurers:
- AXA PPP
- Aviva
- Cigna
- Vitality
- WPA
Police Firearms Officers Association (PFOA), (Registered Charity No: 1139247)
Contact me in confidence on: tel 07706 813 692 or email:
