I decided to train in Person-Centred Counselling as I believe it suits my personality well and feels like a natural fit for me. This means that counselling sessions are generally client-led—I work at your pace and with whatever you choose to bring. I don’t offer ready-made answers, but instead gently support you in developing greater understanding and acceptance of yourself, and where you are in your life right now. I firmly believe that you hold the answers within you, and that being able to explore your experiences in a safe and trusting environment can lead to new insights, personal growth, and meaningful change.
Over time, my practice has evolved into a more integrative approach. While the foundation of my work remains person-centred, I draw from a range of therapeutic models and mindfulness to support our work together. These include elements of CBT, and more recently aspects of the psychodynamic model. The psychodynamic approach can offer valuable insight into how past experiences may be influencing your present, if this is something you feel ready to explore.
At the heart of my work is a strong commitment to helping people build self-awareness, acceptance, and compassion towards themselves. I see therapy as a collaborative process, responsive to your individual needs and focused on what feels most helpful and relevant for you.
Trauma-Informed
In my work, I frequently come across the profound impact trauma can have on people's lives. Trauma can arise from many different experiences: a single event such as witnessing a car accident, or prolonged exposure to distress, such as living with an abusive family member. Each individual responds to trauma in their own unique way, and for some, the effects remain unresolved, held within the body.
Unprocessed trauma can lead to a range of chronic mental and physical health conditions, as well as survival strategies that may no longer serve a person’s wellbeing. This can include persistent hyper-vigilance (‘fight or flight’) or a numbed, shut-down state (‘freeze’ or hypo-arousal).
To support my clients more safely and effectively, I completed a Level 5 Diploma in Somatic-Based Trauma Therapy (2022-2023). This approach integrates body-based (bottom-up) methods alongside talking therapy. It may include psycho-education and embodied practices designed to help clients develop inner resources to calm and regulate their nervous system.
Grounding and a sense of safety are essential foundations for processing trauma. Supporting the nervous system in this way is a vital part of healing and recovery.
Equine-Assisted Therapy
I recently completed a Level 4 Diploma in Equine Facilitated Interactions with the Athena Herd Foundation and am now looking to incorporate the healing potential of donkeys into my practice. Donkeys are incredibly grounding and calming to be around. They live simple lives, fully present in each moment, and just being in their company can help us pause, slow down, and relax.
Many people who have spent time with the donkeys say they feel more able to let go of everyday distractions and clear their minds. As herd and prey animals, donkeys are highly attuned to their surroundings and sensitive to our energy and emotional state. They respond with gentle, authentic feedback, which can help us connect more deeply with our own emotions and physical presence.
Mindful practices or guided activities with the donkeys, often lead to personal insight and learning that can be applied to everyday life. These experiences can support the first steps toward meaningful and positive change.
You can learn more about Equine-Assisted Therapy on my dedicated page here