Since gaining my initial counselling qualification at Reading University in 2000 and up until December 2017 I worked part time for the NHS as a counsellor based in Reading GP surgeries, and in private practice. I therefore have extensive experience in both short and long term work, dealing with a wide range of issues.

I also provided counselling for the Princess Royal Carer’s Trust over a ten year period which has given me a particular insight into the emotional demands and pressures of being a carer.

My experience prior to working as a therapist was in social work, mainly in the area of learning disability.

My training in mindfulness and meditation began in the early 1980s through Buddhist practice, although this aspect of my work now also draws from the current secular forms of mindfulness such as MBSR and MBCT.

Approach and orientation

My experience has shown me the value of bringing different approaches to create the best possible results for the client. This might, for example, include mindfulness, or strategies for addressing specific problems. My most recent training, completed in December 2022, has been in Internal Family Systems [IFS] which works at a deep level to help heal parts of us that can be stuck in the past through trauma or attachment injuries, which then frees up our inherent Self energy.

What do I offer?

I can help with issues connected with:

• Abuse and domestic violence
• Depression and anxiety
• Anger
• Bereavement and loss
• Relationships
• Self-esteem and personal development
• Work
• Spirituality
• Carer role
• Health problems
• Learning disability and autism

As well as including mindfulness practice in one to one therapy if requested, I also teach mindfulness and meditation in the form of a ten week course at various venues including Mind Garden. I run a weekly practice group and frequent whole and half day ‘retreats’.

As a clinical supervisor I provide supervision and training to experienced counsellors and trainees.

Philosophy on Counselling and Psychotherapy

I create a safe space, which is non-judgemental and completely confidential, providing the opportunity for a client to explore and reflect on past experience, current issues and hopes or fears for the future. Through this the client can feel more in control, develop a new understanding of themselves and discover the potential for making new and positive choices.