I have thirty years previous experience of supporting people through stressful times. Initially, as a psychiatric social worker, then psychological therapist, manager and senior practitioner in NHS mental health and a maximum secure forensic hospital. I have supported individuals, parents and young people through traumatic life events, childhood sexual abuse, bereavement following suicide and homicide, clinical depression, complex dissociative disorders and other emotional and mental health difficulties.
I work as a consultant psychotherapist for social services and the NHS, and as supervisor and psychotherapist for various agencies. I have worked jointly with child and adolescent mental health services to provide therapy for parents in emotional crisis. I bring a wealth of understanding and experience to help you work through your issues and life experiences. There is not a lot that would shock me, I am approachable and have a sense of humour.
I have been interested in relational therapeutic work throughout my working life and I'm also qualified in cognitive behavioural therapy, dialectic behavioural therapy and psychodynamic psychotherapy (whilst working in the NHS).I was awarded the Harry Guntrip memorial award for my work linking psychoanalytic ideas with patients experiencing severe and enduring mental health problems at the State Hospital, Carstairs. I have supported families where an admission to hospital has been needed. I have learned the most from clients in extreme states, and people struggling with transgenerational trauma. Working in inner city environments with folks experiencing multiple deprivations has been, since my early 20's, the most respectful and deep learning about resilience, our common humanity and the courage for one generation to pioneer with change.
I have a special interest in working with complex trauma and dissociative disorders that are often associated with the identity fragmentation that can follow childhood abuse. I see the two areas as linked and pay attention to attachment patterns and particularly to very early history. I work with the effects of shock and trauma from a body/mind perspective. Using a depth psychotherapy model rooted in awareness, and at the same time integrating Western psychotherapeutic skills and practices, the therapeutic alliance welcomes the whole person as well as addressing particular difficulties. I am interested in the night journey of dreams that can illuminate so much of the psyche, and may encourage journal keeping. I have trained extensively in the structural model of trauma and dissociation, and the three phase treatment that works towards co-consciousness or integration. Having become accredited as a child and adolescent psychotherapist has enhanced work with young parts or alters.
I seek to bring psychotherapy into the public domain, to people who would not normally attend by continuing voluntary and public service work, avoiding jargon, and reviewing accessibility and anti-discriminatory practice. I hold a full DBS check.
I offer a confidential, clear and contained space for reflection, deep listening, respect and welcome for whatever it is that you wish to explore. I am resourced by the spirit of horses, wild animals, and riding my bicycle in Devon and wild places in nature. I am a parent and lean into that journey. I have a meditation practice. I am vegetarian trying to be vegan. My Portuguese rescue dogs Mr.Fox a podengo, and Jimbo a galgo, have taught me about trust, relationship, and running off anyway. They are a great resource.