I begun my career in a helping role 10 years ago, working across homeless hostels for a year, and then supporting young people in residential care for two years, before moving to my current position. This role is at a charity supporting survivors of Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence.  It was around this time that I completed my ISVA (Independent Sexual Violence Advisor) training, which has enabled me to support clients who are involved in an ongoing criminal justice process.   Starting my therapy training in 2017 with the University of Aberdeen, I qualified in 2019 with a BACP accredited PGDip in Psychological wellbeing, counselling and Psychotherapy.  I also experienced my own personal therapy along side this. More recently, I have completed a Level 1 in Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy and am completing a formal qualification in clinical Supervision

I see myself, and have been told by clients, that I am both warm and “unflappable”. I am a non judgmental and empathic person, who creates a therapeutic environment  where you can feel safe, listened to, held and confident in expressing vulnerability. In particular, I aim for my sense of humour to come across, and notice how shared laughter can be a powerful enabler of any relationship. Gardening, swimming, reading, fell walking, music and my motorcycle are some of the ways I self care and recharge, and are important parts of who I am.

Aside from offering private counselling, I am employed within the charity sector, and believe that everyone, regardless of wealth, income, race or background should have access to quality mental health support.