​listening-ear.org.uk

The way I work
I am an integrative counsellor. This means that I integrate more than one counselling theory in my work. The warmth and acceptance of Person- centred counselling is at the core of my practice, with its emphasis on the quality of the counselling relationship. I integrate Transactional Analysis and Psychodynamic Theory to offer a deeper understanding of your relationship history and your communication style, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Mindfulness, to offer an additional array of practical techniques to address depression and anxiety, which you are welcome to try out in the safety of the counselling room. In all cases, I tailor any counselling to your specific needs.

I work with a variety of issues, but specialise in anger management and anxiety disorders, whether generalised anxiety, health anxiety, OCD, panic disorder, anxiety related to specific events such as exams, or anxiety related to navigating Neurodivergence in a Neurotypical world.

I offer time- limited or open- ended counselling via online platforms or via Walk and Talk in the peaceful environs of Brill.

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Working with Young People
My main area of expertise is in working with young people, something I have been doing for nearly two decades in a variety of settings, six of those as a Secondary School Counsellor. 

Adolescence is a time of flux and I want to help you navigate what can be a confusing process. Whether you are struggling to manage anxiety levels as exams approach, or struggling with your self –image, issues around your identity or sexuality; whether you are coping with bullying, loss, bereavement, or difficulties in relationships at home or at school; whether you are feeling angry, depressed, overwhelmed, out of control, or struggling to cope; through the counselling process, I can help you make sense of what you are experiencing and support you as you work through it to effect a positive change. 

Working with Adults
In addition to offering counselling to young people from age 10-24, I also offer counselling to adults, especially those involved in Education, whether as parents, employees, students or counselling trainees. Having worked in Education for over twelve years, I am aware of the particular stresses involved in this field. Managing work- related stress, anxiety, bereavement and relationship difficulties are some of the key areas I work with most frequently.

Working with grief, in particular after the loss of a child.
Since completing Befriender training in 2006, I have also volunteered as a Befriender for SANDS (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Charity). As a bereaved parent of an infant with a life-limiting condition, I understand this very particular experience of loss and can support both parents and siblings through the grieving process.

Key Areas

• Anger management
  
• Anxiety, including Generalised Anxiety, anxiety related to Neurodivergence, exams, Health anxiety, OCD, Panic Disorder.
• Bereavement
• Bullying
  
• ​Depression
  
• Eating disorders in recovery, in particular Anorexia. 
  
• Gender Dysphoria
  
• Issues around identity, sexuality, self- image.
  
• ​Relationship issues
  
• ​Self- harm
  
• Work related stress.
  

Counselling is a collaborative process
It can come as a surprise that counselling can be hard work. Counselling is not a passive process, but an active one. These are YOUR sessions, for you to use as you see fit. While I will listen, guide the conversation and offer strategies where appropriate, what I cannot do is wave a magic wand. You are the expert on your life and any change will come from you. Sometimes counselling can be difficult or upsetting, but it can also be joyous and freeing, full of light- bulb moments. Your welfare is at the heart of what I do and I will support you so that any difficult times can be managed.