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Could you provide me with details of your qualifications?

I started studying for counselling qualifications in 1989. I did numerous small courses i.e. Working One to One with Drug and Alcohol Users, the Certificate in Counselling etc. These courses inspired me to apply for higher qualifications. I began with a Diploma in Clinical and Pastoral Counselling. After this I did a Degree in Psychology. I also trained as a teacher in adult education and completed the Certificate in Education. Following this I did a Postgraduate Diploma in Guidance and Counselling after which I decided to train as a psychotherapist. I have now completed four years of training as a psychotherapist with The Northern Guild for Psychotherapy and obtained an MSc. in Integrative Psychotherapy.

 

Could you provide me with details of your practical expereince?

I have been working and training as a therapist since I commenced my training in 1989 with the North East Council on Addiction (NECA). During this time I did placement work at Durham Drug and Alcohol Advice Centre, Newcastle Mind, St Nicholas's psychiatric hospital & Durham Prison. After leaving NECA I continued practising as a counsellor. I have now been in private practice since 1996. I work with a wide range of clinical problems and with clients interested in their personal development. Some of the issues I deal with are; anxiety, depression, drug and alcohol related issues, relationship problems, abuse and personality disorders. I am prepared to discuss any problem and give a decision as to whether I am able to be of any assistance, if not I may be able to provide you with details of someone else who may be able to help.

What can you expect to happen in the first session?

During the first session, I will give you an account of the way I work and the therapeutic orientation I use. After this we will go through a contract which addresses confidentiality, frequency of sessions, payment & cancellation of sessions. This will be followed by an assessment. If thought necessary I will ask questions about your earlier experiences. I will also wish to know your understanding of the issues you wish to deal with in the therapy. This session will also give us both the opportunity to make a decision whether to continue working together.

 

How do I decide whether a client is suitable for counselling or psychotherapy?

The usual criteria I use to inform my decision is:-

Clients suitable for counselling will have a number of the following characteristics:

  • Person normally functions quite well
  • Can tolerate disturbing thoughts and feelings
  • Reasons for problems are clear
  • Is able to be in a relationship with another person
  • Prepared to acknowledge own contribution to difficulties
  • Recent onset of problems
  • Desire for change
Clients suitable for psychotherapy will have a number of the following characteristics:
  • Experienced problems for a long time
  • No clear reasons for the difficulties experienced
  • Does not form close relationships with others
  • Wish for deeper insight
  • Unable to trust or over dependent
  • Some acting out