My Background
I began my training in 2008 and I gained a joint honours degree in Psychology and Counselling in 2011 from the University of Wales Trinity Saint David based in Swansea, this was the platform for my training to become a psychotherapist. I continued my training after working for many years in the Third sector and have achieved a Post Graduate Certificate in Counselling Skills and a Post Graduate Diploma in Emotion-Focused Therapy, an evidenced-based approach combining elements of person-centred, Gestalt and existential therapies. This approach aims to help clients develop their emotional awareness, intelligence and understanding. The primary objective is to help clients gain access to the information implicit in their emotions so that they can use it to develop greater self-harmony and act in more robust and healthier ways.
Experience
I believe I am very much a people person having 20 years’ experience of working in a customer focused service role. My counselling experience, both pre and post qualification, includes work with the charities Action for Children, MIND and the Samaritans. I have over six years experience of working as a Family Support Practitioner within the Third sector and have gained extensive skills in working with families and young people with a variety of needs. Alongside my private practice, I have worked with children and young people in local GP Practices around Swansea. I have achieved positive outcomes for the young people I supported, by offering a positive and non-judgemental approach, to identify their needs and empower them to take opportunities that could improve their situation. I have a genuine warmth and energy which is reflected in my relationships. I am committed to maintaining my continual professional development and I will ensure that any professional and successful outcomes are met within the ethical boundaries.
Through my work at SBUHB, I have experience of working with clients experiencing the following: Anxiety and Panic Attacks, Loss and Bereavement, Depression, Post-traumatic stress, Personal development, Chronic Pain and Chronic Conditions, Self-esteem, Relationships, Anger management, Self-harm and suicidal feelings.
