A bit more about me and my story

I have always worked with people in some capacity, whether helping with personal care, supporting someone through a mental health crisis or pouring a pint! Having been a family carer for most of my life, supporting others came naturally so it's no surprise that after school I very quickly moved into care work after a stint in hospitality. I worked with adults with learning difficulties and behavioural challenges and was determined to find better and more human ways of supporting the individuals through their most challenging moments. After about 7 years I took on a new challenge working in a mental health employment service. To help me support the people I worked with better I undertook additional training and qualifications and discovered a real passion for working within mental health. I also began to write and deliver group work sessions as well as mental health awareness training for local organisations and employers. 

It was during my time at the mental health service that I began my counselling training in 2005 completing my level 2 and 3 qualifications. I then took some time out to manage my own health and wellbeing after being diagnosed with a chronic illness. I eventually returned to counselling training in 2017 and qualified just over 2 years later. I set up a private practice whilst maintaining my counselling placements and providing care to a family member. During the pandemic I had a lot to juggle but I also had time to reflect on what I would like my life to look like. Over the next few years, I made some significant changes in my life and here I am still running a private practice and working in a therapeutic role in the NHS both which fit with my values and ethics.  

I wanted to share my story, tell you some of the narratives that have been given to me like; 'carer', 'chronically ill', 'not good enough', but these do not define me as a person. I am more than these narratives, and they are not how I now see myself. I'm passionate about helping others explore their narratives and rediscover themselves and their stories as well as heal from past traumas. Therapy isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it.