I have a special interest in the sociological, political genesis, and implications of racism, and the impact of this on society and individuals. This understanding and interest is a constant and significant feature of my counselling practice and my everyday life. An awareness of my own unconscious bias in relation to race and other equality … Continue reading Race and equality
LGBTQIA+ clients
It is absolutely essential in any therapeutic relationship that the client feels totally accepted, whatever their sexual orientation or gender identity. As an ethical practitioner, it is my responsibility to ensure that a client’s personal issues are understood within the context of their individual sexuality and gender identity, and this includes a willingness to hear … Continue reading LGBTQIA+ clients
Help with childhood abuse
I have worked with many clients who are struggling with the effects of the abuse they experienced during childhood. These effects can manifest in unexpected ways, and the survivor of abuse can feel isolated and misunderstood, particularly as they may struggle to discuss their past with their close family and friends. I understand the impact … Continue reading Help with childhood abuse
Help with addiction and compulsive behaviours
Addictions and compulsive behaviours can manifest in many ways; for example, through the use of alcohol, drugs, gambling, smoking and sex. There are also compulsive behaviours relating to cleaning, ‘checking’ activities and physical compulsions such as picking skin or hair, nail-biting and self-harm, for example, by cutting or scratching. Sometimes people believe they don’t need … Continue reading Help with addiction and compulsive behaviours
Help with parenting issues
Parenting is complicated and stressful. People often feel that it should ‘come naturally’ and when difficulties are encountered, parents can feel an overwhelming mixture of guilt and failure. This can lead a person to become trapped in a cycle of behaviour which seems to make the problems worse. It can be hard to maintain perspective … Continue reading Help with parenting issues
Help with relationship issues
It can be hard to maintain perspective when trying to understand and respond to difficulties in our personal relationships, particularly with regard to romantic relationships and marriages. Conflict can become a part of daily life, and it can feel like there is no solution. Some of these issues will benefit greatly from couple’s counselling, but … Continue reading Help with relationship issues
Help with infertility
Well-meaning family and friends may not fully appreciate the unique pressures of infertility, which can bring feelings of loss akin to bereavement, leaving you angry and depressed. People experiencing infertility need support and understanding, and years of battling infertility can take its toll on mental health and relationships. Counselling can equip you with the resources … Continue reading Help with infertility
Help with workplace conflict and stress
The workplace is a social context in which a person can find themselves feeling powerless and overwhelmed, and it can feel difficult or impossible to take control of the problems which arise. When there is bullying or an excessive workload, this can lead to severe anxiety and depression, and the conflict can feel like it … Continue reading Help with workplace conflict and stress
Help with bereavement and loss
I have worked extensively with grief and this is a special area of interest for me. It is one of the few forms of psychological distress which will affect us all at some point, and the way in which a bereaved person is supported can dramatically affect their future happiness. Losing someone we love is … Continue reading Help with bereavement and loss
Help with Autistic Spectrum Disorder
I have a special interest in ASD (including people with a diagnosis of Asperger's Syndrome) particularly as it affects women and girls. I understand that a girl or woman with ASD can feel unacknowledged and misunderstood. She will often be skilled at concealing, or ‘masking’ the most serious of her difficulties and can find herself … Continue reading Help with Autistic Spectrum Disorder