Frequently asked questions

What are your qualifications?

I am a qualified Children’s Wellbeing Practitioner which allows me to work in an NHS setting treating children and young people experiencing anxiety and low mood.  This qualification is a Masters Level (level 7) course from Sussex University.  I worked for the NHS as part of their school’s based team. I currently work for Nudge Education helping children who are chronically disengaged from school. I am experienced in neurodiversity and special educational needs.

I am an accredited, certified Positive Psychology Practitioner with the Positive Psychology Guild.   I received a distinction for my project-based strengths work with families.

I ran a coaching and mentoring business before re-training to work with children and young people and use some of these techniques where relevant.

I am DBS checked and fully insured.

How do you work?

My unique combination of training allows me to take a holistic perspective. I look at the whole child and the systems around them which includes family and school.  Mental health is traditionally viewed from a deficit-based approach, I am passionate about looking at what we already have within ourselves to help us navigate the world around us.  I take a positive, solution-focused approach and whilst we may touch on the past, I believe in looking at where my clients are in the present and how to help them move them forward in areas where they may be struggling.

The work I do tends to be short term with clear goals set by the client. Using a mix of evidence-based techniques we normally work together for 8-10 weeks.  I work with whole families, children and young people.  With very young children I work directly with parents.  Once our work has ended I am always happy to see clients again for one off sessions if they need help with anything.

Who do you work with?

I work with children and adolescents who are just not thriving, for any reason.  My focus is on low mood and anxiety but a few sessions can be transformational for anyone who feels they have an issue they want to work through.  I also work with parents who might be struggling with any aspect of family life.

My work always starts with a thorough assessment, which includes risk. If I am not the right person to help you or your child I will always help you find the right person either privately or through my extensive knowledge of NHS services.

Is your work confidential?

Confidentiality is a huge part of my work. Anything I discuss with a client is completely confidential unless that client is at risk in any way.  Should risk be established I work collaboratively with my clients to manage that risk and access the right support if necessary.  All therapists work in this way.

When working with young people it is important that they feel anything we discuss is confidential.  I will always encourage my clients to share with their families, where appropriate.  I understand as a parent how hard it is to trust a professional with your child, I do not take this responsibility lightly. 

Most therapists choose to work with a supervisor. I am supervised by a very experienced Clinical Psychologist for my private work.  This involves discussing cases using an initial rather than an identifiable name.  Supervision adds an extra layer of experience and risk assessment to my work. 

Where do you work?

My work is bespoke for each individual client. I don’t believe clinical settings are the best place for young adults to feel comfortable. I work throughout Surrey, Sussex and South London and at your home or school or can suggest venues based upon your needs. I have a beautiful garden room in Surrey where I also see clients. I do work on zoom following two initial assessment sessions to enable us to get to know one another.