About Me

My work with you is under-pinned by three things:

Training / Experience/Registration

I have qualified as an integrative counsellor and coach from the University of East London. I trained as a doctor and practised in the field of Sexual Health for 25 years. I worked as a volunteer counsellor at Terence Higgins Trust, working with clients around issues of sexuality, gender and shame. I am registered with a professional body (the BACP) whose ethical framework I abide by (see it here).

Continuing Professional Development

I keep my knowledge up to date through continuing professional development (CPD) which is monitored by the BACP. This can be courses, books, lectures or conferences.

Supervision

As required by the BACP, I talk regularly to a trained senior colleague about issues arising in my practice, in confidence and protecting your anonymity.

How I work

Three things that are central to how I work are:

Relationship

There are numerous approaches to counselling and coaching. However, the research is clear – no one approach is better than another. The one thing that has been proven to work is a strong relationship between counsellor/coach and client, and this relationship is at the core of how I work. My aim is to provide a warm, compassionate, non-judgemental space for us to explore your story.

Mind-Body Connection/Neuroscience

I am particularly interested in the science behind how our brains and bodies work. My medical training means I have a clear understanding of the nervous system and how trauma or family/societal/cultural issues can affect it.

Psychoeducation

While hundreds of approaches exist, the psychology that under-pins them all is essentially the same. My aim is to de-mystify this for you, and give you the tools to understand how your unique psyche works.

My Core Values

We are all unique individuals with our own qualities, flaws, and experiences. I believe that one of the most important things we can do is get to know and understand ourselves better. One way we can do this is by knowing our core values. My top three core values are:

Authenticity

To me this means being true to myself and acting in alignment with my values, beliefs, and identity rather than trying to conform to societal norms or expectations.

Honesty

I value being truthful so I will always be honest with you. I understand that some people struggle with being honest and can work with you to figure out why that is.

Compassion and Kindness

I believe in being friendly, generous, considerate, and compassionate towards myself and others. My intention is to act with warmth and goodwill in my interactions with people. I believe being kind and compassionate towards ourselves is what enables us to be the same to others.

My Particular Expertise

I am comfortable working a wide range of issues. However, my 25 years working in Sexual Health and my experience working at Terence Higgins Trust have made me especially experienced with:

Issues of Identity/Sexuality

Do you feel ashamed of who you are? Do you struggle to accept yourself or your sexuality?

Health Anxiety

Are you worried about your health to the point where it is affecting your life?

Chronic Medical Conditions

Have you been diagnosed with a condition and are finding it hard to accept or cope with it?

Work with Me

I offer a free 20 minute video call to talk through your needs and for us both to see if we are a good fit. Contact me by mobile, email or contact form.

Get In Touch