I have specialist experience and training in working with young people between the ages of 11-18. This experience has been gained during my work at HYCS, a youth counselling charity and through my work as school counsellor within a number of local mainstream secondary schools. My current position is as therapeutic lead within a local alternative provision (PRU). In this role, I am embedded within a team of specialists known as the ‘alternative provision specialist taskforce’. This initiative has been funded by the Department of Education (DfE) with the aim of improving student outcomes and reducing serious youth violence within alternative provisions.

Young people looking for counselling

As a young person, you can expect to be treated respectfully, honestly and kindly. My style of counselling is called non-directive, which means that I am here to really listen to what you want to talk about, I’m not here to give advice or tell you what to do. I commit to providing you with the same level of service as I do with clients over the age of 18, a confidential, safe and non-judgmental space in which you can explore your issues. I also have some resources available for creative methods of expression if preferred.

Parents & Guardians seeking counselling for a young person

Taking the first step into counselling can feel daunting for anyone, particularly for a young person. Therefore, I will accept first contact from a parent/guardian on a young person's behalf. For counselling to be really effective, it is crucial that the young person can trust that they are free to talk about anything, without the risk of other people finding out what they share. So, once I have met with a young person I will work solely with them and will not provide updates or insights into the work we undertake together.

Safeguarding

I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP) and I adhere to the BACP ethical framework for good practice. This means that I will not break confidentiality with a young person unless there are circumstances where I consider them to be at immediate risk of suicide or abuse. At the start of our work together, I will talk with a young person so that they are fully aware of the limits of my confidentiality.

I have an enhanced DBS check.