About Me
My qualifications:
Level 4 Diploma in Counselling Practice
BSc Psychology
Clinical Psychology MSc
I have also completed many courses in relation to my work, such as:
I am also currently in the process of obtaining Level 5 Diploma in Psychotheraputic Counselling as continuous development is something I feel very strongly about and I am always on the quest to gain as much knowledge as possible.
What does counselling entail?
While I cannot speak for all counsellors, I can elaborate on what my practice is like. First and foremost, I lead with empathy and compassion for my clients and focus on creating a safe space to explore what may be troubling you. The initial session is typically spent going over what has brought you to counselling, what may be your predominant needs and aims for your sessions and any questions you may have. It is a great chance for me to get to know you and to begin the understand how to best help you.
Typically, sessions last 60 minutes (though I do offer 90 minute sessions if that is preferable) and can be weekly or bi-weekly, again, based on your preference. I will support you in talking about your life, such as relationships, culture, past events, unresolved emotions. I will also follow your lead, allowing you to explore what feels relevant at any given moment, to allow an organic and person-centred experience.
Successful therapy helps clients to be more self-aware and self-accepting and as a result, you may change your thought patterns and behaviours.
My role is to support you in gaining a better understanding of your emotions, thoughts and life situations.
While I may use techniques from other methodologies where relevant or useful, my work is predominantly based in person-centred counselling.
What is person centered counselling?
Person-centred counselling is client led. This means that while I may encourage further exploration in areas at times, our work is led by you. If something feels important and you wish to discuss it, you are free to do that at any point. We are not restricted to one topic, challenge or focus. It is an organic process whereby I am simply a facilitator of your self-exploration, steered by whatever thoughts and feelings may come up for you at any one time.
There are also 3 main core values of person-centred counselling that we commit to embodying as person-centred counsellors. These core values create a safe, non-judgemental space for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings and work toward change.
Empathy
Counsellors will be fully present with their clients, meaning that we have empathy for what clients feel and experience. It is our job to view things from the client’s frame of reference and fully understand what they may be going through.
Unconditional Positive Regard
Person-centred counsellors embody unconditional positive regard (UPR) meaning that we view our cliends are worth of care, support and respect, no matter what. We will not judge our clients, we are simply there to hold a space to listen and support.
Congruence
Congruence is often is seen as an honesty between what we may feel and what we show/say. Congruence allows us to work in the present and with honesty. If clients are struggling with congruence (a disconnect between what we feel and believe) then counselling can also help with this.
Diversity and Inclusion
As a counsellor, I am committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment for all, that is respectful and affirming of all identities and characteristics including race, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical ability, mental ability, sexual orientation, gender, health and socioeconomic status. I acknowledge and respect the similarities and differences within in our relationship.
It is part of my professional ethics and personal values to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion and to be aware of the impact privilege, prejudice, marginalization and discrimination have in the lives of individuals. It is part of my professional responsibility to gain continuing education for myself regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Contact me
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Other contact methods:
Email: bettiecolliercounselling@gmail.com
Text/call: 07432424692
Please note that due to the nature of the calls, I will not answer calls directly as I cannot guarentee I will be in a confidential space to chat. Therefore, please leave a message and I will return your call when I can do so in private.
I look forward to hearing from you.
