Hello my name is Helen. I am an integrative counsellor providing a safe and confidential space for you to be heard in a warm, understanding, non-judgemental and down to earth way. In order to assist you in developing a deeper awareness of who you are and resolving your problems, I will support you as you explore the less evident elements of your mind that you might not be consciously aware of.

A good therapeutic relationship is fundamental in this process (research shows that this is the most important part of therapy) so it is vital that we are a good fit. I will listen, reflect, sometimes challenge and most importantly be alongside you as a supportive and understanding companion as you go through this journey of self-discovery which can be rewarding, liberating and satisfying but can also sometimes be painful, difficult and overwhelming. We will be on the path together to effect the change you seek.

I have been volunteering as a counsellor (bereavement supporter and supervisor) for both a national Bereavement charity (for several years) and also as a counsellor for a local Eating Disorders charity.

My background is in Education and I have had a long and varied career as a modern languages teacher.

I am dedicated to continuing my own professional and personal growth. I participate in a variety of training and CPD programmes. Recent CPD (Continuing Professional Development) training has covered topics like mindfulness, working with transgender people, working with eating disorders, working with children and young people, and trauma awareness as well as data protection.

I take an intersectional and anti-discriminatory, LGBTQ+ affirmative, and neurodiversity affirmative stance and am dedicated to learning about the effects of discrimination in all its forms while also examining my own biases and assumptions in the process.

I abide by the National Counselling Society's (NCS) Code of Ethical Practice because I am dedicated to upholding the highest possible standards of professional conduct, morality, and ethics in my work. The safety and wellbeing of my clients are of the up most importance to me, and I have continuing professional supervision to ensure my work upholds these standards.

I have an advanced DBS certificate (Disclosure and Barring Service) and am fully insured.

Since the very beginning of human interaction with oak trees, a powerful symbolic picture of the oak has emerged, in which these trees have come to symbolise among other qualities, strength, stability, endurance, power, fairness, and honesty.

I am offering that haven of trust for you to explore and deepen your understanding of yourself and your issues, much like the symbolic shade and stability of the oak tree and its strong, extensive roots.