B.A. Sociology ( First Class Honours )

M.A.  Sociology of Education 

One year clinical internship in Family Systems

Mindfulnessinschools Training

One Year Foundation Training in Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy,

Oxford Mindfulness Center

Mental Health First Aid Certificate

Registered Clinical Counsellor - BCACC  # 20669

I had already been trained in Family Systems and as a group counsellor had conducted workshops in the family, self-esteem, relationships, etc.  And then, in the more recent past, I faced a health crisis like nothing I had ever faced before. Due to stress in my life at the time, my blood pressure spiked and anxiety attacks followed. 

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My cardiologist at the time suggested that I look for a way to relax and to deal with my anxiety. It was around that time that I discovered Mindfulness, something that I had heard about but really did not know very much about. However, the more I learned, the more I started to integrate the approach into my life, including a daily mindfulness meditation practice. All I can say is that it made a massive difference in my own life. I was able to quit my medication soon after and I have never looked back. Afterwards, I was able to get training in Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy at the Oxford Mindfulness Centre which is part of the University of Oxford.  Mindfulness shows us that thoughts are not facts. And it can help us become more aware about the choices we make in life. It enhances focus and emotional resilience.

My life experience has taught me that none of us has all the answers. It is estimated that one in four of us will need help with our mental health, at some point in our lives. For me, counselling is all about an authentic relationship between client and counsellor. That relationship needs to be based upon trust, honesty and mutual respect. Like with any relationship this takes time, but on this basis self-awareness can grow and personal change becomes possible. Together, we are able to explore difficulties, bounce ideas off each other and to be creative in finding solutions that can work.

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Issues

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I believe that we are all unique and therefore have different issues. The initial phase of counselling is often focused on finding out more about the client's own issues.

 

Issues that I specialize in include: Anxiety, Stress, Depression, Addictions,  Relationships, ADHD, and Mindfulness.

 

I work with both individuals and couples.