I am an experienced Counsellor working on general cases like Depression,
Childhood Centred Issues as well as my specialised area of Loss and Bereavement.
My work has taken me into surgeries, homes and schools/colleges in Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire.
It was after having children that I decided to follow my heart and retrain
as a Counsellor, so privately I gained my qualifications. As well as my Counselling Qualifications I am Cruse trained and
I also attend professional courses as part of my Continual Professional Development.
Whilst studying and training I had to have counselling. Although at times the journey was difficult I was able
to turn my life around and use my past to help others. Because of that I can come alongside clients who are experiencing
times of Loss, Bereavement, Depression, Childhood Centred Issues and Eating Disorders.
I am a very good listener and communicator. I demonstrate empathy, acceptance, sincerity and can adapt my work
to fit the needs of clients. I am very passionate about my work and create a safe, non-judgemental environment in which
I can support clients to express their feelings and thoughts. I have high standards for what I deliver in sessions.
Counselling Areas
Bereavement
- Bereavement is the period of mourning and grief when someone loses a family member or close friend. Bereavement can
affect people in different ways, some experience intense anguish, while others may not show their grief.
There
are a number of stages that the bereaved may go through, these may include disbelief, anger, pain and guilt. However, symptoms
may vary according to the circumstances of the loss, such as the age of the person who has died and the manner of their death
(expected, accidental, sudden, murder or suicide).
Having counselling will help people to work through their grief,
providing a chance to explore feelings and acknowledge loss.
Depression - Depression can cause persistent unhappiness and distress. Sufferers may experience
negative feelings such as hopelessness, loss of confidence or feelings of guilt. Depression may also manifest itself in other
ways, like avoidance or loss of motivation for work or school. In some cases they might experience suicidal tendencies.
Depression can be triggered by upsetting experiences like bereavement, relationship breakdown or unemployment. It can affect anyone, although
certain people are more susceptible than others. Depression counselling can help people to work through their problems,
however it is advised to speak to your GP also.
Eating Disorders - Eating disorders are
abnormal eating habits which involve insufficient or excessive eating. If not treated, eating disorders can have serious effects
on an individual's health.
Common eating disorders
include Anorexia and Bulimia Nervosa. Both are triggered by an intense desire to lose weight. As well as dieting sufferers
can be obsessive with exercise. Main causes can include, social pressures about "being thin" or psychological
issues like depression, low self-esteem or control. Having counselling will help explore the reasons behind the eating
disorder and provide support in overcoming the problem. It is advised to contact your GP as well.
Childhood Issues - Childhood Issues in adulthood are the
result of a trauma or a memory that has occurred during childhood that impacts on the individual's life.
During our life we recorded, store and recall, thoughts, emotions, images
and behavioural impulses...memories. Memories are an integral part of how people see themselves and the world around
them. People may experience difficulties like, establishing stable relationships, trust or control. Talking with
a counsellor around these issues will give insight and a way forward.
