Biography:
After 22 years of working as a Psychologist and Counsellor, in numerous community settings and in private practice, I remain as passionate about helping people to reach their potential by supporting them in working through life's challenges as when I first began.
I enjoy working with people with an interest in alternative health, diverse lifestyles and spiritual traditions.
What issues do I work with?
Fertility: Supporting women and their partners in attempting to conceive naturally and with IVF, and managing the difficult emotions that can accompany this quest. Managing the grief and loss associated with miscarriage, or inability to conceive. Dealing with expectations particularly where "things haven't gone to plan" related to pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding and having a baby.
Transition to parenthood: I believe in greater transparency about the joys and challenges that having young children can bring to parents and their families including; social isolation, changes to relationships, loss of libido, identity as a parent rather than working person, whether to have another baby and many other such concerns.
Transgender, intersex, bisexual, and same sex attracted people: I have substantial experience assisting these individuals in attaining the goals they have in their lives, despite often having to overcome discrimination and prejudice, from their closest family to the broader society. I have supported many transgender clients in their journey from “coming out” to family, friends and colleagues, to living full time in their preferred gender identity.
This has included navigating the complex medical system involved in gender reassignment including providing support pre and post surgery.
Other areas of Interest: Self esteem Personal empowerment Stress management Self care Assertiveness Relationship issues Trauma (including PTSD) Mindfulness/meditation Family/domestic violence Drug and alcohol abuse Depression and anxiety Managing difficult and painful emotions: Grief and loss, anger, disappointment.
Co-production of a Relaxation and Visualisation CD aimed at managing anxiety and depression.