About Me
Working with Depression and Anxiety
I often get asked why I do the job I do and although it can be difficult the reward of being part of a process where a person improves their mental well being often from a very low point is what drives me to continue. Anxiety and depression can have a huge impact on life and can sometimes make people feel like it can't or won't get any better but counselling can often be a turning point towards a different happier path. There is still stigma around mental health and getting support through counselling which is why I am also passionate about removing the stigma and this passion drives me in my work to make every client feel safe, accepted and able to be heard freely.
I began my academic training with an honours degree in Biomedical Sciences from the University of Sheffield. I then went on to work in various fields from the care sector, to teaching, finance and sales. None of the jobs I had fitted who I was and my own struggles with anxiety and depression meant holding down positions was hard.
I finally had counselling myself and found the right counsellor who worked with me to tackle my anxiety head on and find my true passion in helping others with anxiety and depression. I decided to begin training as a psychotherapist and achieved a Level 5 Professional Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling. This was one of the best decisions I ever made and I now work privately providing counselling and training to assist others with their mental health.
Supervision and Self-Care
As part of the role as counsellor I need to attend regular supervision with a qualified supervisor to ensure I am working ethically and also maintaining my own mental health. I am also part of the National Counselling and Psychotherpay Society and being part of this ethical body means completing regular training to ensure I am up to date with my skills and new research. The role of a counsellor can be difficult so to ensure I also look after my own anxiety when not working I can be found with my head in a detective novel or at the allotment enjoying being outside with nature.