Hello. I am an experienced Gestalt psychotherapist (UKCP accredited) and Integrative counsellor (BACP accredited).

‘Hope Matters Therapy’ evolved from my deep belief that finding and holding onto hope is essential for our wellbeing. I am often told I have a deep level of empathy and understanding, which I attribute to having worked through my personal historical traumas in my own therapy. My own journey also influences my passion, further training, and experience in supporting people bringing complex trauma, dissociative conditions including DID, and attachment related issues.

As a therapist, I draw from different ways of working, (see FAQs). However, most importantly is the relationship you and I build. Through paying attention to what is happening between us, and inviting you to do likewise, I can support you to find new and more creative ways to be in relationship with yourself and others.

In 2024 I took an ADHD coaching course, which I am in the final stages of completing the written assessment for. My intention is to offer ‘therapeutic coaching’ to people who are neurodiverse. My preference is to offer a combination of coaching and therapy, which allows people to gain greater awareness and also support through skills and strategies. Both individuals and couples find this approach helpful.

I also have much former experience of working with agencies and organisations, including as:

• A senior peripatetic counsellor, and clinical supervisor, with Talk Well (formerly TIC+), a Gloucestershire charity offering counselling to young people aged 9 – 21 years.

• A volunteer counsellor (5 years) with Willows Counselling Service in Swindon, where I gained a wealth of training and experience in working with trauma, dissociation and disrupted attachment.

• A residential facilitator for counselling students at the London School of Theology.

Prior to training as a therapist, I was a primary school teacher, before gaining a Post Graduate Diploma in Special Educational Needs and working as a teacher of blind and visually impaired 0-18 year olds. As a therapist, I welcome anyone with learning, physical or sensory disabilities.

As a Christian working holistically, I am interested in the impact of my own and other’s spirituality in the therapeutic journey. You are welcome to explore your faith and spirituality as an intrinsic part of your therapy.

I live, with my husband Paul, in the beautiful countryside on the fringes of Malvern, a setting which allows us to work therapeutically outside. I believe nature enables greater insight into how we experience life, relationships, love and connection, which in turn enables greater emotional health and wholeness.

I am a wife, a mother to three adult children, my youngest of whom was adopted internationally, and also, since 2024, a grandmother. My family is becoming ever more multicultural, with four different countries being represented, reflecting my love for difference and diversity. After many years of living away, I notice how my birth county of Cornwall has become again my favourite place for restorative holidays.

Being with my animals is an important part of self-care. My Romanian rescue dogs teach me about survival, learning to trust again, healing from pain and unconditional love. My chickens make me laugh, so releasing my natural endorphins, great for reducing stress and boosting mood. My cats remind me of the importance of balancing energetic activity with much needed relaxation. My two cheeky but adorable Shetland ponies, who I bought in 2024 after doing a Fundamentals of Equine Assisted Therapy course, teach me about relationship, attachment…and establishing healthy boundaries. Please ask if you would like any of my two and/or four legged companions to join us as part of your sessions.