My counsellor training had a specific and substantial focus on diversity and I have reflected extensively on such issues as culture, ethnicity, class, gender, sexuality and disability. We all hold prejudices to some degree but I aim to be aware of and attempt to minimise mine wherever possible. I am open to being challenged on this. I am aware that being from the majority white culture may impact on how people from different ethnic groups feel about working with me and am happy to explore this together with clients.
I feel a strong commitment to working with people who feel socially marginalised as I believe that we are all equal and deserve to be treated as such. I care deeply about social justice and my own feelings of marginalisation inform my work. When working with a client from a different background to me I try to gain an understanding about the individual rather than make assumptions. I am fascinated by what makes people different and have a respect for different cultures and experiences of living.
Working in a way that fosters equality is of the utmost importance to me. My therapeutic approach, Person Centred counselling, is based on the idea that we all essentially know ourselves better than anyone else and therefore ultimately know the right way forward. This belief means that I do not see myself as an authority who can tell people what they should do. Rather I see my work with clients as a collaborative process. Whilst I am a professional and I do have experience, I attempt not to impose anything on clients or hide behind a professional façade.
Wheelchair access may be possible at my premises in Burgess Hill - please mention if you have a mobility restriction when you contact me.
Working in a way that fosters equality is of the utmost importance to me. My therapeutic approach, Person Centred counselling, is based on the idea that we all essentially know ourselves better than anyone else and therefore ultimately know the right way forward. This belief means that I do not see myself as an authority who can tell people what they should do. Rather I see my work with clients as a collaborative process. Whilst I am a professional and I do have experience, I attempt not to impose anything on clients or hide behind a professional façade.
Wheelchair access may be possible at my premises in Burgess Hill - please mention if you have a mobility restriction when you contact me.