Qualifications
I qualified as a registered nurse (RNMH) for people with learning disabilities in 1986, and have continued to work in this field ever since, in various roles. As a qualified nurse I have to constantly update my knowledge and skills, but I felt I needed more than that. I wanted to enhance my skills around communication, listening and realtionship building, and decided that counselling would enhance my skills appropriately.My counselling journey commenced in 2001, when I started studying for my first formal, counselling, qualification, and has continued ever since. I achieved a Diploma in Counselling from Southampton University, in 2005, and in 2010 I added the BA in Counselling and Psychotherapy.
In 2005 I was invited to join the Southampton Counselling and Psychotherapy Practice, and have worked there with individuals ever since. As well as having extensive experience of working with people who have very limited communication skills and carers, I have worked with people on issues such as grief, bereavement, disability, relationships, anger, low self esteem, and terminal illness. I work with adults of all ages
I am a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (link) and follow their ethical codes of practice. I attend for regular supervision. I am also a member of the Royal College of Nursing, which is a professional body.
I undertake regular training to uphold both my nursing and counselling qualifications.
