Hi, my name is Sarah-Jane.

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Whether you are new to counselling, or returning, meeting a new counsellor can be daunting, and so I’ve written a few words, to give you a flavour of how I work. The most important aspect of counselling is whether we are a good 'fit' for each other. I'm an experienced, compassionate, down-to-earth counsellor, so hopefully we can work together to explore whatever you want to talk about. 

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You are welcome to email, text or call me for more information.

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I have always been interested in people; how their lives and choices are shaped over the years, and how people make sense of the world, respond to one another and behave in relationships.

Originally I studied Psychology and then mental health nursing, but was looking for something less medical and clinical; more individualised, caring and empowering. The path led me to counselling.

The Person-Centred way of counselling attracted me because I believe real and lasting change comes from within. In this approach, the counsellor doesn’t advise or direct, but instead offers a genuine, empathic, non-judgemental relationship, and a safe, thoughtful space to explore and reflect. 

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I feel that one of the most important aspect of counselling is the relationship between client and counsellor. It is therefore important that you find the right counsellor for you, at this time. You may wish to have a one off session with a few first, to gauge who you would feel comfortable working with. 
 

Experience:

In addition to my private practice, I currently work part time as a counsellor at a local university. Prior to this, I worked for 5 years as a counsellor at a charity for children and young people aged 12-26. I am also a clinical supervisor for other counsellors. Over the years I have been a counsellor for CRUSE Loss & Bereavement, Southampton University staff and students, ‘It’s your Choice’ for young people, and ‘City’ community counselling. I have experience working in NHS mental health settings, (forensic, substance (mis)use and community).

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I hold professional indemnity insurance, and have a current enhanced DBS check.

I comply with General Data Protection Regulation (2018) and am ICO Registered.

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I am a registered, Accredited member of the ‘British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy’ (BACP), and am bound by their professional code of ethics.

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Qualifications:

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These include:

BACP Accreditation,

a BA (Hons) Degree, (1st), in Person-Centred Counselling and Psychotherapy, 

OCN Diploma in Supervision

a Psychology BSc (Hons) Degree,

a Post grad Diploma (partial) in mental health nursing,

and a P.G.C.E. (Qualified Teacher Status).

 

I have further training in Person-Centred Couples Counselling, and have completed 

the CRUSE Awareness in Bereavement Care Foundation Course.