I have spent over twenty-nine years working in a variety of roles within the voluntary and health and social care sectors, specialising in the field of substance misuse for over 9 years.  I feel privileged to have worked with diverse groups of people experiencing difficult and complex issues, who have shared their experiences and made some difficult and painful changes.

In 2008, whilst working in a residential drug and alcohol project, I decided I wanted to gain a better understanding of the reasons that some people remain stuck and unable to move forward.  I also wanted to feel better able to support those people, so I began studying on a BACP Accredited Diploma in Counselling Course at Sheffield Hallam University.  The course was an invaluable experience, both personally and professionally. I not only gained counselling experience both on the course and at Barnsley Mind, I also gained greater self-awareness and an understanding of how different and unique human beings are and that the ‘one size fits all’ approach is not particularly helpful.

Since completing the course I studied on another course in Education Studies with Psychology and Counselling which has helped me understand the powerful impact the education system has on young people.  I then continued to gain valuable experience working as a counsellor at Dearne Valley College counselling young people aged 16-18 years old.

However, my desire to provide therapy that respects a client’s individuality and allows them to go at their own pace encouraged me to start my own private practice in 2016.  I consider myself very fortunate to now work from a room that has beautiful views across Endcliffe Park which reflects my own interest in the therapeutic benefits of nature.

As well as working in private practice, I also work part time as a Specialist Mental Health Mentor, supporting university students.

I am a registered member of British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and I work within their ethical framework.  As well as ensuring that I work safely and ethically it also means that I have regular supervision and engage in continuing professional development.  I also possess an enhanced DBS certificate and have indemnity insurance.