My Supervisory approach 

I am an integrative supervisor and practitioner hence I able to adapt supervision to meet the needs of my supervisee’s chosen therapeutic approach (where appropriate), their developmental needs and unique preferences for supervision.

I strive to offer supervision that supports reflective practice and continuous development within a relationship that aims to be collaborative, restorative, empowering, informing and supportive (and creative if this is something supervisees desire- I am trained in the CRAFTS creative approach to supervision as well as my original COSCA supervision training). I consider myself to be down to earth, warm and flexible in my approaches to clients, supervisees and life overall. I am also influenced by Hawkins and Shohet’s 7 eye model of Supervision.

My therapeutic Approach

Having originally trained in the Person Centred approach my practice has transitioned to incorporate elements of approaches such as CBT and Third Wave CBT, including Compassion Focused Therapy, ACT, DBT, Schema therapy and Mindfulness. I also incorporate creative elements to my practice and I am a member of the Creative Counsellors Group.

I have training in Schema therapy and have a particular interest and experience in supporting those affected by developmental trauma, clients with anxiety related issues, working with clients experiencing addictions and with male clients. I have also completed an extensive certificate in working with CPTSD through the Complex Trauma Institute, which delivered competencies in Herman’s staged approach to trauma recovery. I am a member of the Complex Trauma Institute attending specialist training, group supervision and I am a member of their trauma research group, with my present research focus being related to adapting safety and stabilisation work to those with ADHD. I have a keen interest and training in working with neurodivergent clients -and supervisees- especially those who identify with ADHD traits and symptoms. 

I may not be a good fit for those who prefer a heavily structured approach to practice and supervision, and please note that I would not meet present BABCP CBT supervisor requirements, as my practice/qualification is not purely CBT. I have experience supporting a range of both qualified and trainee counsellors in particular those with PCT, Pluralistic, Integrative, CBT/Third Wave CBT and Trauma-informed or specialist trauma approaches. Please note I do not have experience in working with children or couples.

My Experience 

I have worked and volunteered across a variety of counselling agencies supporting various client groups including those experiencing issues related to addiction, bereavement, work related issues, general mental health and wellbeing issues. I have also worked with the student population and with those experiencing issues in relation to housing and homelessness. 

I work part -time as a Development Officer for COSCA coordinating counsellor and trainer accreditation systems and course validation, across Certificate, Diploma, Supervision and Specialist level courses. This gives me extensive knowledge of ethical practice, the needs of trainee counsellors and the expectations and demands of Diploma level Counselling courses and the typical challenges that may be faced in meeting these. I also have extensive knowledge of counsellor accreditation systems, in particular supporting counsellors towards COSCA Counsellor Accreditation.

My role has given me exposure to a range of different therapeutic approaches, and I have been fortunate to work along experts within the field to support them to develop their courses and to promote the continued development of COSCA, it’s validated courses and counselling practice within Scotland. Previously working at COSCA in a different role overseeing the Recognition Scheme for organisations also helped to give me an advanced understanding of the demands of counselling within an organisational setting and the voluntary sector.

Availability and Costs

I offer supervision to qualified and trainee counsellors within my offices in Cumbernauld Town Centre and I have availability weekday evenings, and Wednesday day times and Friday daytimes. Please note that I only have availabilty at present for one monthly supervision slot on Wednesday AM’s.

I charge £40 per hour and £55 per 1.5 hours.