I offer neurodivergent-affirming, trauma-informed counselling, working in a person-centred and relational way. I support adults who feel stuck in repeating emotional or relational patterns, often shaped by early experiences, misunderstanding, or long-term stress.
I am a registered member of the BACP – the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy – and work in accordance with its ethical framework. I have completed specialised training, which has enabled me to offer you a safe, ethical, and professional online telephone and email counselling standard. I’m registered with the ICO (Information Commissioner’s Office) and fully insured.
I offer counselling in Macclesfield, Cheshire and online across the UK.
A neurodivergent affirming practice
I have lived experience of neurodivergence. However, I am mindful that my experience may differ from yours. I provide a space in which you can explore what your neurodivergence means for you, whether that is being Autistic, having ADHD, or other differences. I am trained in Adaptive Therapy for Autistic Adults (ATAA®).
How I work
I’m a person-centred therapist, so I trust you to lead sessions with what you want to bring. I listen to your thoughts and feelings, often letting your voice take the lead in our sessions. My approach is gentle and collaborative. I don’t aim to change who you are; instead, we explore how your patterns developed, what they’ve been protecting, and how you can respond with more choice and self-compassion. At times, I might also suggest using creative tools and other techniques to help you discover or identify your feelings and find suitable coping mechanisms.
I usually like to use three main techniques in sessions, depending on what your needs are:
- Giving you the space to talk openly about the things you need to, without judgment
- Psychoeducation – learning about how our nervous system works, or why a trauma might stay with us after the event
- Learning some new skills and healthy coping strategies.
A lot of the work I do with trauma and neurodivergence is about working in the present – helping you to stabilise your nervous system, to understand your emotions, supporting you and building your capacity to tolerate challenges. I hope to help you regain your resilience and rediscover your true self. You will find my qualifications below, if you’re interested.
Qualifications and training
- MSC/PGDIP Counselling and Psychotherapy, University of Salford
- Certificate in Creative Counselling Interventions, CPCAB
- Certificate in Neuro-Affirming Practice, Free2bme (ongoing)
- Adaptive Therapy for Autistic Adults (ATAA®) Practitioner
- Domestic Violence and Childhood Sexual Abuse Training, University of Salford
- Certificate in Online Counselling, Counselling Tutor
- Level 2 and 3 Certificate in Counselling Skills
Trauma training
I’ve undertaken additional training over the years. Some of my training is listed below, enabling me to work safely and trauma-informed way. I am a member of the Complex Trauma Institute.
- Frank Anderson’s Master Class in Internal Family Systems Therapy, PESI
- TRE training, Richmond Heath, TRE Australia
- Rewind Trauma Therapy – Complex Trauma Institute
- The Flash Technique – Dr Justin Havens
- Foundation Certificate in The Application of The Polyvagal Theory in Counselling & Psychotherapy, Online Events
- Working with trauma stages 1 and 2 – Complex Trauma Institute
- Certificate in Trauma-Informed Practice, Counselling Tutor
Clinical placements
I have worked with several well-established counselling agencies, gaining a wide range of experience. I have worked on the women’s service team for the Salford Foundation, working with women who had experienced domestic abuse and sexual assault; many of these women were going through the family courts, fighting to keep their children. I’ve worked with Manchester Mind as a therapist on short-term therapy sessions. And, I have worked with men who have experienced domestic abuse and sexual assault at Salford University’s Domestic Violence Counselling Service.
In addition to my private practice, I currently work with teenagers and young adults in an educational setting.
Prior to my psychotherapeutic training, I have worked in mental health, for domestic abuse and disability charities and in social housing and the NHS. I continue to undertake personal therapy as part of my ongoing commitment to self-development. My experiences as a client have a profound impact on my learning, both personally and professionally.
Professional memberships
Articles
https://www.counselling-directory.org.uk/articles/working-with-dyslexic-clients