QUALIFICATIONS
BA(Hons) History, York University, 1985
PGCE, 1989, Cambridge University, (DFES/GTCS - DBS check)
Diploma in intuitive massage, MTI, 1990
Diploma in Counselling BACP 1993, CSCT, Cambridge, accredited 2023
MAEd, Open University, 2005 (PATOSS member)
PG Conversion Diploma Psychology, Open University, 2013, GBPS
Mindfulness teacher training, Mindfulness Scotland, 2020
MA in Creative Writing, Middlesex University, 2021
IAYT Diploma in Yoga Therapy 1000+ hours, Paramanand Yoga, India, 2023 (& 500+ hours Yoga TT/200 hrs Yoga Nidra teacher training)
Postgraduate Diploma, Art Psychotherapy, Metafora, Barcelona, 2023-2024 - ongoing
Diploma in CBT, University of the West of Scotland, BABCP, 2023-2025
Full indemnity insurance
PSYCHOTHERAPY
I employ the three main proven approaches used in psychotherapy—psychodynamic, person-centred (sometimes called humanistic), and cognitive, behavioural (CBT). This provides you with more options for exploring your problems, which, in turn, offers greater flexibility to progress towards your personal goals at a pace that suits you.
COGNITIVE BEHAVIOURAL PSYCHOTHERAPY
If you choose to undergo Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy, it is essential to understand the commitment involved. CBT is similar to going to the gym - we identify the areas we both believe need change, set goals, and develop a plan to achieve them. Then, we work in a structured way during each session, using tasks between sessions to maintain momentum. It requires dedicated time each week and offers a transparent, well-researched approach to changing habitual behaviours and thought patterns that no longer serve you. It can be challenging as you move away from old ways of thinking and acting into a healthier way of living. If you do not commit to the sessions and tasks, you will not see the changes, just as you would if you missed a personal training session at the gym. The aim is for you to acquire skills and insights that enable you to sustain these changes over time. CBT is a shorter-term therapy but more intense, therefore it is more expensive.
COUNSELLING AND PSYCHODYNAMIC PSYCHOTHERAPY
I also offer counselling using a psychodynamic approach. This method tends to be longer-term and provides a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your past at your own pace. You may examine past attachments and how they have influenced your current relationships. You might explore emotional dysregulation, unhelpful thoughts or behaviours, and find the best ways to accept and release them. Alternatively, you may simply need a space to talk, grieve, or connect with yourself and the world around you with compassion. Either way, I offer you a space that is yours to shape as you wish, while asking thoughtful questions to help you see connections, themes, and validate your chosen path.
Lastly, as a qualified yoga therapist, mindfulness teacher, and art as therapy practitioner, I can integrate a variety of practices into whichever journey you choose to undertake. Whatever interventions we decide upon, it will be collaborative, informed and carefully woven into your therapy.
For therapy to be effective, it is essential to focus on the relationship between the client and psychotherapist. Research indicates that the connection with your psychotherapist is as crucial as the techniques they employ. As your psychotherapist, I will provide a non-judgmental and impartial space where you are heard and respected, regardless of what you bring and whichever path you choose to take.
BACP Definition of Counselling & Psychotherapy
"Counselling and psychotherapy are umbrella terms that cover a range of talking therapies. They are delivered by trained practitioners who work with people over a short or long term to help them bring about effective change or enhance their wellbeing."
DYSLEXIA ASSESSMENT
Assessment is an opportunity for you to investigate how you learn and work. You may have noticed that you struggle with specific things when studying or working or even at home - memory, speed of completion of tasks, literacy, attention, coordination, organization, etc. An assessment for dyslexia uses both background information and your experience, as well as psychometric tests to evaluate areas of resilience and challenge so that you better understand your cognitive profile. This is a collaborative process where you are listened to so that the final report is clear and meaningful and offers you a realistic and informed path forward.
Before the assessment, you will be asked to complete a questionnaire, followed by an informal interview. On the day of the assessment, you will work through a series of psychometric tests. The whole assessment takes approximately 3 hours and can be split into two sessions if needed. You will receive a detailed and comprehensive report within two weeks
ADHD SCREENING (adults)
Screening for adult ADHD involves various steps. I use questionnaires and interviews to gather information about symptoms, such as inattention, impulsivity, and restlessness. I assess the impact of these symptoms on daily life and rule out other possible causes. The process involves understanding the history of symptoms from childhood to adulthood. Collaborating with a provider who specializes in ADHD can lead to an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options if needed.

