Sometimes when going through a difficult time it can be easier to talk to someone who doesn't know you, won’t judge you or tell you what to do. The counselling relationship is confidential and gives you the space to say things you may not usually feel comfortable saying for fear of being judged or upsetting loved ones. You may not completely understand the way you are feeling, and you may find it
useful having someone to guide you through an exploration of your feelings and thoughts. It is important for you as the client to feel safe, in a trusting, honest and supportive relationship with your counsellor. The strength of the relationship itself is essential for the counselling process and for this reason it is really important that you find the right counsellor for you. Counselling can help with: relationship problems, anxiety, depression, bereavement, low self esteem, eating disorders, self harming, work related worries, stress, trauma, divorce, poor health, anger. Counselling is not just about listening, or about giving advice. The counselling relationship provides a secure base from which you can explore difficult feelings, experiment with different ways of being and start to make changes or work towards goals. I started training as a counsellor at Leeds Metropolitan University where I completed the CertHE in Interpersonal and Counselling skills. I completed my training with the DiplomaHE in Therapeutic Counselling, also at Leeds Metropolitan. The core approach I work from is the Relational Approach which maintains that the relationship between client and counsellor is of key importance. I may use other tools or theories where I deem it may be of use in a session. I’ve found working creatively in particular has been beneficial with a number of different clients. I am a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and therefore I work to their ethical standards. I am working towards BACP accreditation. In addition to my private practice I have gained over 3 years experience from working at Bradford Counselling Services. A project in Bradford City Centre offering counselling for all ages and various issues. Other courses I have completed include but are not limited to: Bradford Bereavement Support training course, Transactional Analysis (TA101), Basic Awareness in Domestic Abuse, CAMHS Introduction to Children and Young People, Self Management Coaching for Long Term Health Conditions, Working with Problem Gamblers and Affected Others
