MY STORY
I am a qualified Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and a qualified Mountain Leader (Summer) registered with the Mountain Training Association MTA and the Mountaineering Council of Scotland.
I strive to work flexibly in ways best suited to your needs. It is imperative to me that my clients feel valued and respected during our professional relationship. I believe the therapeutic relationship between client and therapist is fundamental therefore I offer a free 20 min introductory telephone session to allow a connection to be made (or not) at no cost to the client.
I also offer a 'walk and talk' style therapy, where our sessions will be conducted in the outdoors, usually in and around the local nature reserve. I firmly believe that even the mildest form of exercise can increase mood and brain functioning, reduce anxiety and enhance self-perception, all of which support therapeutic change. There is no level of fitness required for this and the pace is set by you, the client. These sessions are available once the therapeutic alliance has been established and are completely optional and at no extra cost. In addition to this i offer Mountain Therapy within a group setting, throughout the summer months I run weekly workshops that take place in a mountainous environment (Pentland hills)
The counselling process offers a safe and comfortable environment where you are able to explore the difficulties that are causing confusion or distress and assist with seeking a greater balance in life. It is impossible for any of us to escape life's challenges and the negative impact they can have on us, it's what we do about it that matters! Change is possible and with the right attitude and support you can overcome any difficulties.
Training, qualifications & experience
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I have a varied background predominantly within the military and in outdoor education. I have worked with soldiers and their families on a wide range of everyday and complex issues. I also have experience of working in an outdoor environment with both adults and children. During both chapters I often helped individuals face their fears and push past personal barriers in order to achieve what they once considered unachievable.
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Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and group work
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Accreddited Member of the BACP
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COSCA certificate in counselling
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Certificate in Occupational Welfare
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Mountain Leader (Summer award)
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Outdoor first aid trained
Continued Professional Development
Protecting information - self-harm and suicide awareness - DASH risk assessment - Child & adult safeguarding & protection (GIRFEC) - SAFE TALK - Mental Health First Aider
I am committed to ensuring I am up to date with all research and development within CBT; I attend regular training courses and workshops to keep my practice fresh and up to date. Another role i participate in is Teaching Assistant on the 2 year diploma course, a role that keeps me up to date and contributing to the learning and development of up and coming therapist.
Professional Registration
I am an Accredited member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and work within their ethical framework and code of practice. I am currently working towards accreditation.
I am a fully trained registered member of the Mountain Training Association.
I have full professional indemnity insurance for both private practice and outdoor mountain therapy and i attend monthly professional supervision to ensure good practice.
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Governing body
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Accredited member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)
Registered member of the Mountaineering Council of Scotland (MCoS)
Insured by Howden
Supervised by Ashlie McVey (ACT Counselling Services)