About me…
Background
Prior to establishing my psychotherapy practise, I worked in various professional and cultural settings. I’ve been a Jockey, Teacher, Cabin Crew member, Business owner and full time mum. I feel one of my biggest achievements is integrating the French culture, and creating my own happiness and professional fulfilment here in France.
Education
After leaving school at 16 to pursue my dreams, I decided to embrace higher education when I was in my 40s.
I initially studied for my first degree in Psychology by distance learning with the Open University, and then went on to achieve my Masters degree at Leicester University. I qualified as an Occupational Psychologist, providing consulting services and resources to companies and their employees, helping to combine work place well-being and optimal performance. This eventually formed the basis of my dissertation for which I achieved distinction.
Psychology training and Experience
Ongoing training has equipped me with several cutting-edge approaches to help teens, adults and couples. I trained as a Coach in London, specialising in CBT techniques and Positive Psychology tools, such as goal attainment, accentuating hope, Strengths Based Development and Emotional Intelligence.
After achieving my Masters degree in Occupational Psychology, I went on to train for a further three years in Psychotherapy in France. The backbone of my approach is focused around Transactional Analysis, which is particularly effective in allowing me to understand what you are currently experiencing and how this may relate back to your past and unconscious influences. During therapy sessions, I provide you with simple clear explanations and diagrams of what might be going on in your relationships (with yourself and others), and what can be done to improve them.
I have now accrued considerable counselling experience, helping people manage and overcome stress, anxiety, anger, depression, loss of self, direction and meaning.
My Own Personal Development
I enjoy ongoing training and monthly supervision by a senior practitioner, in order to ensure my work is continually effective. I am also committed to my own personal therapy.
Finally, in combination with my skills and experience, I have over 35 years of inter-cultural experience, having lived and worked in Germany, France, and the Middle East. As a result, I have developed a sound appreciation of expatriate living and multiculturalism. This allows me to understand, guide and support you, the English speaking community in France.
My style is interactive and collaborative. This means I support you in finding your own solutions and answers, rather than giving you my advice. Clients have described me as “warm, and very friendly, yet challenging, immensely supportive, motivating and straight talking”.
To discuss your needs or to book an appointment, please email me.
My simple explanations are helpful in understanding the source of your issues.
This allows us to consider how you might go about things differently.