About me

My psychotherapy training began in 2015 when I enrolled on a four year clinical training in a type of psychotherapy called Transactional Analysis (TA). I successfully completed the course in 2019 and achieved a UKATA Diploma in TA (psychotherapy).

I am very committed to my personal and professional development and am currently in the advanced stages of working towards a masters level qualification called CTA (Certified Transactional Analyst). This is a rewarding and stimulating qualification which requires me to reflect deeply on my work with clients and on my own personal process.  

My first career was in healthcare as a team manager in customer service for over ten years and this gave me a great understanding of people of all ages and backgrounds and the pressures we are often put under in the workplace and in our daily lives.

Experience and skills:  

I enjoy integrating different techniques into my work. As well as using traditional ‘talking therapy’ techniques, I have a range of other skills to draw on which complement my practice such as using some CBT techniques and creativity.

I have experience in using mindfulness with clients and employees, to help enrich lives and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. I have run workshops throughout the country on Mindfulness & Resilience for AXA PPP healthcare and AXA Group. I have also facilitated mindfulness sessions to children and teachers in primary and secondary schools.

I am a naturally creative person and am experienced in using a variety of creative techniques (including using objects, metaphors, sand and creative writing) to help clients access repressed feelings and explore their emotions. These techniques are optional, if creativity isn’t for you that is fine!

I have worked with the following charities as a volunteer counsellor: Redhill Counselling Centre, Carers Support West Sussex and Headway (acquired brain injuries).

Qualifications:

I hold a UKATA Diploma in TA Practice (psychotherapy).

In 2020, I completed a Diploma in Trauma Therapy.

I attend regular ongoing professional courses to keep my skills up to date. I have undertaken extensive training including the following:

  • Transactional Analysis Advanced Clinical Training in Counselling and Psychotherapy  (2015 to 2019)
  • Diploma in Trauma Therapy (June 2020)
  • Safeguarding Children (yearly training)
  • Working with Couples in Therapy (August 2020)
  • Working Therapeutically with Teenagers (August 2020)
  • Working Therapeutically in an Educational Setting (August 2020)
  • Mindfulness Now Teacher Training (July 2021)
  • Certificate in Trauma Therapy (completed 2017) including Trauma & Recovery, Severe & Complex Trauma, Trauma in Children, Attachment and Attachment Disorders
  • Mental Health First Aid (completed 2016)
  • Counselling Skills Level 2 (completed 2011)
  • Masters in Creative Writing and Personal Development (completed 2005)
  • BA (hons) English and Creative Studies (completed 2001)

I have experience in working with clients experiencing the following difficulties, and more:

  • Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
  • Social anxiety
  • Depression
  • Low mood
  • Trauma / PTSD
  • Stress
  • Grief & Loss
  • Work-related issues
  • Relationship difficulties including divorce
  • Family issues
  • Low self-esteem
  • Low self-confidence
  • Identity issues including sexuality
  • Self-harm in teens and adults
  • Clients with life-changing brain injuries
  • Carers who are caring for family members

I am fully insured, enhanced DBS checked and am supervised by qualified and experienced Transactional Analysis Supervisor & Trainers.

I have a keen interest in TA and am editor of The Transactional Analyst, which is a 60 page quarterly magazine for UKATA members. I also regularly contribute articles on psychotherapy and write book reviews for the magazine.

I am a registered member of BACP. I am also a member of UKATA, the professional body for TA psychotherapy, and EATA, the European body. I am a member of ITAA and Lapidus. I adhere to their Code of Ethics and Professional Practice.