About me
Qualifications and Experience
I trained at The Minster Centre in London, a leading integrative psychotherapy and counselling training institute.
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Postgraduate Diploma in Integrative Counselling (BACP accredited, validated by Middlesex University)
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Motherhood Studies Practitioner Certification (sociology of motherhood, by Dr Sophie Brock)
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Petals training on Supporting Parents Following Baby Loss (including subsequent pregnancies)
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Advanced Certificate in Online and Telephone Counselling
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Certificate in Bereavement Counselling
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My ongoing professional development includes specialist training on many areas including: working with trauma, shame, perinatal mental health and neurodiversity-affirming practice.
I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy and abide by their high professional standards and ethical codes.
In addition to my private practice I have worked in an NHS-funded bereavement service and a low-cost counselling service. Before training as a therapist I studied English Literature at university, was briefly a primary school teacher then built a career as a manager in university admin, supporting academics and students in lively English, Fine Art and Psychology departments.
I am a qualified counsellor with over 10 years of experience. I have two primary-school age children.
When I had my first child I became interested in the psychological transition into motherhood. I saw lots of baby classes advertised, but nothing aimed at mums who wanted support for their personal process. There is still a taboo against mothers having mixed feelings about mothering and finding it hard. Which is outrageous because it's absolutely normal. Mums deserve support not shame.
I am an integrative counsellor, which means that I am influenced by a range of psychotherapy theories and techniques and tailor my approach to each client. I believe that you are the expert in your life. My role is to provide a warm non-judgemental relationship which helps you to be yourself, as together we explore what is troubling you and how to feel better. I bring curiosity and kindness to each therapeutic relationship and love meeting people from all walks of life. I am a divergent thinker, which means I am good at holding complexity, questioning norms and offering you new perspectives.
I value the diversity of minds, bodies and families and work in an LGBTQ+ and neurodiversity-affirming way.
I believe that children should be seen and heard, and that raising them is very hard, very important work.
I love trying new foods but my children do not. Luckily they do share my love of learning, stories and small adventures.
Contact me if you'd like to arrange a free introductory chat.