I have a background in Education, Training and Adult Mental Health.  In addition to working with Adults, Couples, Families, Young People, Children - from five years, I have worked in a Secondary School as a School Counsellor and in a primary school dealing with children who have behavioural and special educational needs. Therefore, I am experienced in managing challenging behaviour and have specific expertise in Autism and Asperger's.

 

Other specialist areas include Relationship Difficulties, Depression, Bereavement, Addiction and Abuse. I embark upon monthly supervision to ensure I am offering you a professional service and attend regular training's to keep my practice current.

 

I worked for several years as a Voluntary Counsellor at Off The Record. I supported both Young People, Adults and Parents and supervised support workers in managing the above issues. I helped assess candidates who were transferring into a counsellor role and delivered a workshop on Depression. I also trained new volunteers entering the service, offering information on how to deal with Relationship Difficulties, Suicidal Intentions and Abuse.

 

My work at Portsmouth Counselling Service with adults gave me valuable experience in working with individuals suffering from addictions. I also received training on Domestic Violence and Alcohol Counselling, so this has helped me understand the issues involved in such situations.

 

I also volunteered for over two years at The Rowans Hospice. I worked alongside patients, staff and visitors on the Ward, Day Centre, Reception and Coffee Shop. Therefore, I have much experience and knowledge in dealing with life limiting and terminal illnesses.

 

I have delivered training to a variety of organisations and professionals working in Mental Health. Some of this training has involved an element of Personal Development, so I am able to facilitate individual and group processes. Topics have included Depression, Attachment, Self- Harm, Relationships with Food, Depression in Young People/ Children, Eating Disorders, Building a Successful Private Practice, Dealing with Difficult Behaviours, Co-dependency, Suicide and Mental Health Awareness.