As a person centered counsellor and psychotherapist I am here to listen and support you during this difficult and emotionally draining time in your life.  There is no judgement made by me, I take the view that each and every one of us has the right to be who we really are rather than constantly trying to meet the expectations of others.  You have the right to be really heard, understood and believed.  This is rooted in the knowledge that we all have the potential within us to grow, develop and be happy given the right conditions. I provide quality time and encouragement for you to explore how this can be achieved.  

I do not have fixed ways of helping; it is dependent on what you as an individual needs.  You are the expert when it comes to knowing what you feel and I am here to help with identifying what may work for you.  Being able to speak freely, without inhibition and knowing that you are believed and understood, our collaboration will identify the way forward.  Also, I know from my own lived experience that it is possible to heal.

My experience includes helping those in crisis to cope with their "here and now" stress and trauma, followed by ongoing support to find practical ways to deal with this over time.  As a veteran I have a special interest in this area of therapy and continue to research, for example, what can be helpful to those who have longstanding PTSD residual symptoms that continue to be intrusive and disrupts their day to day life.

Many of us have had experiences as a young person that have deeply damaged us, there just seems to be something that has been locked away and not dealt with ("unfinished business").  I am able to help you to look back, unlock the memories and gain an understanding of these experiences and how the distress and emotions they stirred up can be dealt with. This is done in a safe and sensitive way by, for example, using a tried and tested narrative exposure therapy (NET) approach where appropriate.

Everyday life these days is full of many challenges which can cause stress, anxiety and powerful mood swings. I am also able to provide practical suggestions on how to cope with these and go on to develop healthy mental health habits.

I am a military veteran and may be able to provide my services at a reduced rate to ex military personnel.  Sadly veterans who are suffering from what is deemed to be a non-military related experience find it difficult to find support and unfortunately funding for this is rare.  Contact me for an initial session free of charge to discuss a potential way forward.

Finally, working over the last two years for a local charity has given me an understanding of how best to support ex-offenders and those who are on probation - people who are unfortunately often left to fend for themselves.

Enhanced DBS certificate (001522957279) held since March 2016 - expires 22nd March 2022.

I have treatment and professional liability insurance through Hiscox.