For over twenty years I enjoyed a career in the NHS as an Intensive Care Nurse. By its very nature this form of nursing allowed me to provide support to those who had lost a loved one.  I continue to be passionate about working with bereaved adults, now within a counselling space rather than the clinical area. For some, loss can add an extra weight to already existing problems such as anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. It can be further complicated by emotions of anger, guilt, and can have an impact on family dynamics and relationships. Loss is a universal experience, but each of us will have our own story to tell. If you are struggling with your grief, or perhaps unresolved grief that you are now ready to begin to process, I am here to support you.  

In my mid-forties, my nursing career was cut short. I descended into what I now know as the Peri-Menopause, but had no name for it at the time. I struggled to maintain a high-pressured job, whilst coping with varied symptoms that affected all aspects of my personal and professional life. For some women, this transition can be fraught with physical and psychological symptoms, such as brain fog, hot flushes, anxiety, low mood, and loss of confidence. In many ways Menopause can feel overwhelming, debilitating, and isolating. I am passionate about providing support for women, and their partners, experiencing Peri-menopause and Menopause. This was one of the driving factors that led me to retrain as a therapist. I hope that knowing a little about me, puts you at ease, and helps you choose a counsellor that feels right for you. I look forward to working alongside you soon.

Jo

Work Experience  

I currently work as a Bereavement counsellor at a hospice which supports adults struggling with grief and loss. I have also worked within Oncology and Palliative counselling at NHS Velindre Cancer Centre, counselling clients and relatives, helping them adapt and cope with their Cancer diagnosis, treatment, and End of Life.  As a private counsellor I have the opportunity, experience, and compassion to help you address a broad range of issues, in a safe and confidential space.    

My Approach

I work as an Integrative therapist. I believe that utilising a variety of therapeutic approaches, tailored to meet the needs of each client, creates a more individual and holistic experience of counselling. Therapy should not be a ‘one size fits all’ approach, because we are all unique in how we learn and grow. As a large amount of my work centres around loss, I work with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) Mindfulness, as well as using elements of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Person-Centred humanistic approaches.