My name is Alex, I am a qualified integrated counsellor and a registered member of the BACP (British Association of Counselling Psychotherapy). My core model is person centred, which means exactly what is says, my approach recognises we all have the skills to be personally motivated to grow as a person. You can read more about my approach in the “Counselling with me” section if you want.
A bit about my background, before qualifying as a counsellor I worked in the NHS for +20 years as a Radiographer, before specialising as a Sonographer. I have a Bachelor of Science in Radiography followed by a Postgraduate in Ultrasound, both from London South Bank University. During my time with the NHS, I worked all over the UK from Scotland to Sussex, as well as internationally in Australia and Zanzibar. I very much loved my work, caring for people who needed my help, it was a very rewarding experience.
My path to moving into counselling was a very natural one, it had always interested me, particularly after experiencing counselling myself. It seemed a very obvious choice, putting my skills learnt over many years as a healthcare professional to good use.
My more recent experience of working as both an advocate and as a counsellor includes working for mental health charity Journeyman (NW England), domestic abuse charities (male and female) and Age UK (nationally).
I also have had personal experience of counselling in my life so I understand you may feel unsure in starting counselling. However, my own counselling journey helped me so much and I would like to give you the time, support and help to complete your counselling journey, whatever and wherever that may take you.
A bit about me personally, I love travelling and have done volunteer work in Zanzibar, setting up an ultrasound service in 2 of their local Hospitals. I also volunteered in Nepal, working in a children’s home for orphans and teaching English to Buddhist monks. On the more madcap side I’ve completed 12 bungee jumps on my travels around the world and I walked on the Great Wall of China for 12 days to raise funds for the MS Society. I am an active supporter of my local foodbank, collecting donations and raising funds.
You also may be wondering about the blue penguins, in Māori they are called Korora (pronounced Core-Roar-Raah), and they are very dear to me. Be sure to ask me if we talk and I’ll tell you all about it.
You can also find me on the BACP's Therapist Listing, Psychology Today, NHS Talking Therapies and Professional Standards Authority directory.