My Counselling
As a counsellor, I strive to offer professional, compassionate and inclusive support for adults, children and young people. Here's what you can expect when you choose to work with me:
Initial Assessment Session
The first session is an opportunity for us to meet and see if we're a good therapeutic match. During this time, we'll discuss in more depth what brings you to counselling, and you'll have the chance to ask any questions you have about the counselling process. This first meeting allows us both to get a feel for how we might work together and whether my approach aligns with what you're looking for. At the end of the session, we'll decide mutually if we want to continue working together and book a time slot that suits us both. This initial meeting is about ensuring you feel comfortable and confident taking the next steps in your therapeutic journey.
My Approach
As an integrative counsellor, I draw from a range of therapeutic approaches so that our work can be shaped around you as an individual. No two people are the same, and I believe counselling should reflect this.
I see counselling as a collaborative process, and together we can find a way of working that fits you. Whether that's exploring your past, focusing on the present, talking things through, being creative or simply having a space to be heard.
Creating a sense of safety and acceptance is at the heart of my practice, and I believe a trusted therapeutic relationship is central to meaningful work together. I aim to offer a space where you can feel truly seen, understood and supported, and where we can work together to understand and explore what's happening for you at your own pace.
Counselling for Children and Young People
When working with children and young people, my approach is centred on creating a safe, trusting environment where they feel heard and respected.
Our sessions are confidential, which means what we discuss stays between us. This confidentiality is crucial in building trust and allowing young people to express themselves freely. However, if I have serious concerns about safety, I may need to break this confidentiality. I always discuss this with the young person first if possible.
While the work is primarily with the child or young person, I recognise the important role parents and guardians play. With the young person's agreement, parents may be included in parts of the process. Any information shared with parents is discussed and agreed upon with the young person first. This approach maintains trust and respects the therapeutic relationship we're building.
If the young person is comfortable with it, we may have periodic review sessions that include parents or guardians. These can be helpful in supporting the young person's progress, but they always happen with the young person's consent.
For the first session, parents or guardians are welcome to join for the initial 5 minutes. During this time, we'll go through the counselling agreement, which I'll send prior to our meeting. This helps everyone understand how we'll work together and what to expect from our sessions.
In my work with children and young people, I often use creativity and play to enrich the therapeutic experience. Tools such as art and crafts, games, symbolism and psychoeducational activities create a safe space where young clients can express themselves freely. These methods not only foster engagement but also enhance self-exploration, helping to uncover feelings and thoughts that may be difficult to articulate. This playful approach supports deeper emotional connections and facilitates meaningful growth in therapy.
My goal is to create a supportive, empowering environment where young people can explore their thoughts and feelings, develop coping strategies, and work towards positive change in their lives.