I have over 15 years of experience supporting children and young people in pastoral education, with a particular interest in safeguarding and mental health.

My passion for mental health and wellbeing led to me beginning my counselling journey in 2021. I have worked therapeutically in a number of educational settings and within a specialist grief charity.

Alongside Creative Hearts, I currently work at a specialist SEND school as a School Counsellor. This work has allowed me to gain a strong working knowledge of neurodivergence and other SEN needs that is grounded in real world experience.

I am an integrative therapist, which means I draw on a variety of therapeutic approaches. My core theory is Transactional Analysis which explores how we relate to others and how this shapes our story. My overriding philosophy is person-centred. The client is at the heart of all the work we do together and the therapeutic relationship is the key component.

I am also passionate about working creatively in counselling, particularly with children and young people. Words can be hard to find however use of play and creativity can aid expression is a very powerful way.

Inclusivity is also really important and I welcome clients from all different backgrounds. At Creative Hearts, clients are accepted and celebrated for who they are.

I have specific training end understanding of the importance of working in a way that is flexible, sensory aware and low demand for neurodivergent clients, including those with Autism and ADHD and those with SEN needs.

• Level 6 Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling with Children and Young People

• BA (Hons) Creative Expressive Therapies

• University Advanced Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Skills

• University Advanced Diploma in Family Systemic Practice

• Ongoing CPD in areas such as trauma, neurodivergence,

• I am a registered member of the BACP (membership number 416909)

Creative Hearts Counselling is based at Willow House, Willowpit Lane, Hilton DE65 5FN.

It is easily accessible from Derby and other surrounding areas, including Etwall, Mickleover, Littleover, Hatton, Burton on Trent and many others.

The therapy room is bright and comfortable and filled with creative delights!

We have a waiting room for parents/carers and there is free on site parking

I understand what a big step it can be to reach out for counselling support and it is important to me that you and/or your child or young person feel supported every step of the way.

Support is tailored to the individual and I strive to create a safe, nurturing and calming space to allow my clients to feel able to share their difficulties. When life is challenging, having someone to sit alongside you and accept you without judgement is so important. The creative side of my approach is also key and allows for both conscious and unconscious processing. With children and adolescents in particular, this can provide a particular safety as there is no pressure to ‘get it right’ and allows for a deeper level of freedom of expression. This can also be powerful for adults if you feel comfortable to try it.

I adhere to the BACP ethical guidelines so you can be assured that I am working to a high standard

Sessions are weekly and last for 50 minutes and are charged at £65. Payment is made at the time of booking.

In the initial consultation, we will talk throught the challenges that you or your child/young person are facing and will discuss some initial goals for counselling. Please feel free to raise any questions or concerns and I will be happy to talk them through with you.

I currently offer appointments on a Friday between 9.30am and 5.30pm.

Ahead of beginning the sessions, you will be provided with a client agreement which will detail the terms and conditions.

If a child or young person would like their parent or carer to be in the room, this will be possible for the first session. However, this will be the choice of the child or young person as it is important they feel able to share openly.

Sessions are confidential between myself and the client. The only exception to this is where I feel there is risk to the client or another person or if the client requests I share information with a third party. There are certain legal obligations which also may override confidentiality. I will always speak with the client ahead of sharing any information

Counselling does not provide emergency or crisis support. If you feel you or your child or young person needs to speak with someone urgently please call 111 and select the option for mental health support or attend your local A&E department.

There are also helplines and online services which offer emergency support:

• Childline - online or call 0800 1111

• Shout - text 85258

• Samaritans - online chat or call 116 123