Working Collaboratively in Therapy

At the heart of my work, whether as a therapist or supervisor, is a belief in the importance of relationships, reflection and feeling understood. I believe meaningful change and professional development happen when we have the opportunity to explore our experiences openly, feel supported and develop a deeper understanding of ourselves and others. I offer a collaborative approach to both counselling and psychotherapy, and clinical supervision for counsellors and psychotherapists. Although these are different professional relationships, both are underpinned by the same values: openness, curiosity, respect, trust and a commitment to ongoing development.

One of the questions people often have when considering therapy  is, "How will I know if it's helping?"

Therapy is not always about finding quick solutions or achieving clearly defined outcomes. Sometimes changes are subtle and develop gradually over time. At other times, clients notice significant shifts in their relationships, confidence, emotional wellbeing or understanding of themselves.

From the beginning of our work together, we will regularly review how therapy is progressing and whether it continues to meet your needs. I believe it is important that we can openly discuss what is working well, what might need adjusting and whether the focus of our work remains relevant to you.

Reviews may include reflecting on:

• Changes you have noticed in your thoughts, feelings and behaviours.
• Improvements in relationships and communication.
• Increased self-awareness and understanding.
• Emotional wellbeing and resilience.
• Progress towards goals identified during therapy.
• How you are experiencing the therapeutic relationship and the work itself.
• New insights, connections or perspectives that have emerged.

Sometimes people begin therapy with a clear goal in mind. Others arrive simply knowing that something does not feel right. Both approaches are equally valid, and goals often become clearer as the work develops.My approach is relational, integrative and trauma-informed. I draw on different therapeutic perspectives, including Relational Psychotherapy, Transactional Analysis, Psychodynamic, Systemic and Person-Centred approaches, alongside EMDR where appropriate. I am interested not only in the difficulties you are experiencing but also in understanding the experiences, relationships and patterns that may have shaped how you see yourself and the world. The therapeutic relationship is central to this process. Having a space where you feel heard, respected and able to explore difficult experiences without judgement can create the conditions for meaningful change.

Clinical Supervision for Counsellors and Psychotherapists

Alongside my therapy practice, I offer clinical supervision to counsellors and psychotherapists, supporting both trainee and qualified practitioners in their professional development. I see supervision as an important and valuable part of therapeutic practice. It is more than a space to discuss client work or consider ethical and professional responsibilities. It is an opportunity to pause, reflect, think more deeply and develop a greater understanding of ourselves as practitioners and the work we undertake with others. My approach to supervision is collaborative, relational and reflective. I aim to provide a supportive and thoughtful space where you can bring your client work, questions, uncertainties, challenges and successes openly.

I recognise that working as a counsellor or psychotherapist can be rewarding, meaningful and, at times, emotionally demanding. The relationships we develop with our clients can bring up complex feelings, questions and challenges. Having a space to explore these experiences can help us remain curious, grounded and connected to our work.

Supervision may provide opportunities to explore:

• Your therapeutic work and the relationships you develop with clients.
• Recurring patterns, themes and dynamics within client relationships.
• Emotional responses, personal processes and the impact of the work on you.
• Ethical dilemmas, professional boundaries and clinical decision-making.
• Different therapeutic perspectives and ways of understanding client experiences.
• Areas where you may feel stuck, uncertain or challenged.
• Your confidence, professional identity and development as a practitioner.
• The emotional demands of therapeutic work and the importance of looking after yourself.

I believe supervision should be a space where you feel able to bring both your strengths and your uncertainties. It is not about having all the answers or feeling that you need to demonstrate competence. Rather, it is about developing the confidence to think critically, remain curious and reflect honestly on your practice.My aim is to work alongside you, offering a balance of support, reflection and thoughtful challenge, helping you develop your own understanding and confidence in your work.

My Experience and Approach to Supervision

My approach to supervision is informed by over 17 years of experience within the counselling and psychotherapy profession. I spent 12 years working with Relate as both a practitioner and Training Lead, gaining extensive experience in relationship counselling, therapeutic practice, training, supervision and professional development.Alongside my private practice, I have also worked as a Lecturer and Tutor at Iron Mill College, teaching on the Advanced Diploma in Integrative Counselling and supporting the development of trainee counsellors and psychotherapists.These experiences have given me a particular interest in how we develop as practitioners, how our personal and professional experiences influence our work, and how we continue to grow throughout our careers.My own therapeutic orientation is integrative and relational, drawing on approaches including Transactional Analysis, Psychodynamic, Systemic, Object Relations and Person-Centred perspectives. These influences inform my interest in relationships, attachment, patterns of relating and the ways our experiences shape how we understand ourselves and others.I bring this experience into supervision with an emphasis on reflection, curiosity and developing a deeper understanding of the therapeutic process, humanistic the foundation. 

A Collaborative Relationship

Whether you are coming to therapy or seeking supervision, I believe the quality of the relationship matters. Feeling safe enough to talk openly, ask questions, explore uncertainty and consider different perspectives is important. I value an approach that is collaborative rather than prescriptive, where we can think together and remain open to what emerges. In therapy, this means working together to understand your experiences and what you may want to change. In supervision, it means creating space to explore your clinical work, develop your thinking and strengthen your confidence and professional identity. In both settings, I believe reflection and self-awareness are essential to growth. There is always more to understand, and I see ongoing learning and development as an important part of being a therapist.

Taking the Next Step

Whether you are considering therapy for yourself or looking for a clinical supervisor to support your work as a counsellor or psychotherapist, finding the right professional relationship is important. If you would like to explore working together, ask questions about my approach or discuss what you are looking for, I welcome you to get in touch for an initial conversation.