Counselling Sessions~ Frequently Asked Questions

Working Together

I offer confidential counselling and clinical supervision in a comfortable, private setting in Plymouth, as well as online across the UK.

I work with individuals, couples, children, and adolescents, providing a calm and supportive space tailored to your needs.

Sessions last 50–60 minutes and usually take place weekly or fortnightly. Everyone works at their own pace, and the number of sessions is always your choice. I’m happy to discuss what might suit you best.

I offer a free 30-minute phone consultation, giving you the opportunity to ask questions and explore whether working together feels right for you.

Sessions are £60 payable at the end of each session. I also offer a limited number of reduced-fee spaces, including concessions for trainees.

Clinical supervision is arranged slightly differently, in line with professional guidelines, and typically takes place monthly for 1.5 hours.

I am fully qualified, insured, and hold an enhanced DBS certificate.

In our initial conversation, we begin to explore how counselling can best support you.

For some, this may involve gently reflecting on the past - making sense of experiences and finding a way to come to terms with them. For others, the focus may be more present or future-oriented, looking at goals, choices, and the direction you’d like your life to take.

Starting counselling can feel like a big step, and it’s natural to feel unsure at first.

Our first session is a chance for us to meet and begin to get a sense of whether working together feels right for you. There is no pressure to share anything before you’re ready.

You may want to talk about what has brought you here, or simply how things have been recently. I will listen with care and offer a calm, supportive space for you to begin.

We can also explore what you hope to gain from counselling and answer any questions you may have.

There is no single way to approach therapy. We move at your pace, in a way that feels comfortable for you.

My formal training and ongoing professional development include:

Core Counselling and Psychotherapy

• Graduate Diploma in Integrative Counselling (BACP Accredited), with Distinction - York St John University, 2010, Level 7
• Diploma in Person-Centred Counselling - Metanoia, London, 2008, Level 6
• Certificate in Integrative Counselling - York St John University, 2007
• Certificate in Couples Counselling - Cherished Family Project, Sheffield, 2020
• Certificates in Working with Children and Young People - The Relate Institute, 2010

Clinical Supervision and Specialist Therapeutic Training

• Advanced Diploma in Clinical Supervision - Devon Counselling College, 2023, Level 7
• Trauma-Focused CBT Certificate - Psychology Associates, 2022
• Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP) - Level 2, Psychology Associates, 2022
• Diploma in Hypnotherapy - Academy of Advanced Changework, Sheffield, 2012, Level 6
• Masters-level modules in CBT Therapy, Dramatherapy, Coaching, Psychology of Religion and Drama Therapy - Leeds Beckett University, 2012
• Certificates in Brief Solution-Focused Therapy - BRIEF Institute, London, 2008
• Transactional Analysis 101 Certificate - 2011

Trauma, Adoption and Family Work

• Professional training in working with trauma and abuse — Mindfields, 2020
• Certificate in working with adopted teenagers — Adoption UK, 2007

Mindfulness and Training

• Mindfulness Now — Teacher Training in Mindfulness, 2026
• 8-week MBSR Mindfulness Meditation Training — Leeds Beckett University, 2011
• OCN Accredited Trainer — 2016
• GamCare Certificates - working with Gambling addiction 2011

I am committed to continuous professional development and regularly undertake further training in areas relevant to mental health, counselling and clinical practice.

"As well as talking therapy I liked  that you offered me ways to calm and regulate myself and gave me tools that I could use at home such as breathing techniques."

"I will never forget the support you gave to me and my wife when we were at our lowest ebb. Thank you doesn't even cover it."

"You’ve really helped me with my anxiety and relationship issues and I could always tell this is more than a job for you. Your caring nature shines through.."

"You have a lovely reassuring calm presence, and I also like that you are not afraid to challenge me when I need it! For example when I am avoiding talking about the reason I came to counselling for."

"I enjoyed the laughs in our sessions as well as those lightbulb moments."

 "I woke up to the fact i don't have to be so down on myself."

"I appreciated that you listened to me and didn't rush me towards what now seem to be 'obvious' solutions!"

"Thank you for the difference you made to our son, we were so worried about him. now we can't believe he's the same boy."