I use an integrative approach to counselling which means that I draw from several well-established therapy models, adapting my approach to suit you. “I'm really happy I have found you! Your counselling approach is well rounded ..... I already feel stronger and capable!” G (age 41)
Many studies suggest that the quality of the therapeutic relationship is the main healing ingredient in psychotherapy. Central to my approach is the importance of a genuine, accepting relationship with the people who come to me for counselling. “I felt so heard and held and comforted, like you were really there for me ….. Thank you ….." L (age 57)
I aim to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment in which you will be given time and space to understand and gain insight into your situation. This process can foster growth and lead to positive change in your life. “I found it cathartic to work on my ‘life graph’ ..... I shed a lot of tears and that was healing.” P (age 48)
"Counselling has made an important difference in my life. My counsellor was patient, knowledgeable, and open-minded. Talking to my counsellor gave me hope and confidence to continue helping myself. My counsellor gave me practical strategies to continue navigating my healing journey successfully." O (age 33)
I work with individual adults across all age ranges both in a private and community setting, online and by telephone. I offer short-term and long-term, open-ended counselling.
I believe it is important for counsellors to have had a broad life experience as well as the relevant professional experience and qualifications.
In my own life, before changing direction to become a counsellor, I worked from home as a freelance journalist for many years while raising a child with severe learning disabilities.
I also work part-time for The Challenging Behaviour Foundation co-delivering Positive Behaviour Support, Whole Family Approaches and Trauma Awareness workshops and providing a 'listening ear' service for family carers. I previously worked with the Care Quality Commission as an 'expert by experience' inspecting care homes.
I have also worked on a voluntary basis as a volunteer counsellor for Frontline 19, which involved offering psychological support to people working in the NHS and frontline services in the UK during the COVID-19 pandemic, and as a Christian in counselling for All Saints Counselling Service in Portsmouth working with Christians and non-Christians..
MSc in The Applied Psychology of Intellectual Disabilities, with Distinction, at Portsmouth University. My study about parenting a child with learning disabilities is published here
Diploma of Higher Education in Counselling, gained from Waverley Abbey College, Farnham.
These include working with the unique issues that parent-carers of children/adults with additional needs face and with neurodivergency. I share my thoughts and reflections on my own life experience in this area in my blog and my research study citizen-network.org/uploads/attachment/532/parenting-chrissy.pdf
I am author of a 'Parent's Perspective' chapter in an academic journal on genetic causes of learning disability and a self-help book Bringing Up a Challenging Child at Home
My training and experience allow a flexible, holistic, client-centred approach that includes working with people who hold religious/spiritual beliefs, which they may or may not choose to explore in counselling. I only incorporate these areas in my practice if people specifically ask me to because they find them meaningful and helpful. As a member of the BACP Spirituality Division, I provide a safe, reflective space to explore both psychological and existential challenges. I recognise that spirituality, faith, meaning-making and deep personal values play a vital role in how we experience life and navigate hardship. My approach is holistic and collaborative, whether you are processing spiritual distress, questioning your beliefs, drawing strength from your faith, or seeking a broader sense of connection and purpose.
I am registered with the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (BACP) Reg no. 384363 and the Association of Christians in Counselling and Linked Professions (ACC) Reg. no. R001401. I am an Accredited Counsellor, which means that I voluntarily applied to join a register that has been recognised and accepted by the Professional Standards Authority and met their rigorous qualifying criteria. Therefore, you can have confidence in me as a properly trained counsellor, who has met certain professional, competency standards, and is committed to good, safe, ethical practice. Find out more about Accreditation here.