‘Sometimes when you’re in a dark place, you think you’ve been buried, but you’ve actually been planted…’
— Christine Caine
ABOUT ME
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Listening has always been at the heart of my work.
Before undertaking my training in counselling and psychotherapy, I worked for more than 20 years as a broadcast journalist for an international news organisation. My role then was to look at events, question what was happening, and report what I saw, with care, attention, and seriousness.
In the UK and overseas, sometimes in hostile environments or places of conflict, I was committed to witnessing what unfolded as best I could and I developed a passion for pursuing truth and justice, whilst maintaining a balanced view; always finding myself drawn to the human story.
In 2013, my first book was published, with photographs by Bryan Adams, titled Wounded: The Legacy of War. I wanted to highlight the courage and resilience of wounded war veterans, to show not just what they had lost, but also what remained, and how they adapted. They were unflinching in their honesty as they told their stories, which were both a privilege to hear and humbling to encounter.
I realised that, across my work, I would develop meaningful and true relationships with those who welcomed a platform for their voice, often in hugely difficult circumstances; I wished to be able to offer something deeper and more significant in return. My experiences over two decades have informed my understanding of tough environments and trauma, and the way that I work now.
I found training in counselling and psychotherapy to be rigorous, and more challenging than I had anticipated. I loved the academic learning and intellectual application, but I had not appreciated the level of self-examination required; I embarked on personal therapy at the beginning of my training, and I continue with this now.
Therapy is not easy, and it can feel daunting. For me, it has become a discipline that I am committed to, as I believe that a deep connection with others begins with a deep connection to self, and that this is essential to be a grounded and effective practitioner.
I provide compassionate, professional counselling and psychotherapy either face-to-face or online using an integrative approach. This means that I draw from different models of therapy, enabling me to tailor sessions for each individual client. I work from a person-centred basis, so my focus is to create a secure, warm, and non-judgemental relationship, as well as a supportive space for you to explore any difficulty, confusion, or curiosity that you may be encountering.
I will offer you empathy, honesty and respect and I will listen carefully, beyond your words, to ensure that you feel heard and valued. We can work with both your present day experiences, and deeper emotional patterns so that together, we can develop an understanding of your situation. Feeling attuned to and not judged creates the conditions for healing; it is this connection that can empower lasting change at the deepest possible level. When you feel both safe and gently challenged, growth happens. Through trust and collaboration it is possible to learn to accept yourself enough to thrive and grow.
I draw on a blend of approaches, from an understanding of how the nervous system regulates itself and the deep connection between mind and body, to insights from attachment theory and child development, alongside cognitive behavioural techniques and mindfulness.
I believe that understanding the past helps us grow in the present; exploring our relationships with family and culture is integral to understanding how we relate to the world - and to our wellbeing.
MY APPROACH
To be truly seen and heard can be profoundly transformative, and a meaningful therapeutic relationship can enable insight, support change, and offer relief.
EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS
My Qualifications:
I have a NCPS Accredited Advanced Diploma in Integrative Counselling. I am also currently undertaking a Master’s in Integrative Psychotherapy, Counselling & Supervision.
Professional Membership Bodies:
I am a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), and I abide by their Code of Ethics. I am also an accredited registrant member of the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS).