Kindness · Grace · Faith
What does KGF mean?
The philosophy of my work stems from the concepts of ‘Kindness, Grace, Faith’.
Three elements that you will perceive in a confidential setting with empathy and non-judgment. Through counselling you will learn to accept yourself with the same Kindness, Grace and Faith as you go deeper in your therapeutic journey.
Journey into Mental Health
My journey in mental health began with an interest in the science of human mind and behaviour. This inspiration led to further understanding about the complexities of mind and mental health. The focus of exploring Family Systems arose through professional and personal experience with generational trauma and the impact of east and west cultural influences. Combining both personal and professional knowledge enables me to help people with a range of issues stemming from internal family systems. Most of the time our behaviours and patterns of relating have been inherited through generational imprints that have been passed down. Through counselling you will be able to identify root causes paving the way to feel liberated and self-assured.
PostGrad Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling. Certified in Psychodynamic Counselling and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy. Certification in Mindfulness obtained from the British Mindfulness Institute and qualified Reiki healer. MSc, BA (Hon) Psychology (with Social Studies). Adhering to continued professional development to enhance my trainings and knowledge within the mental health field.
I’ve had the privilege to learn from experts in family systems, trauma and somatic practices including LIVE workshops with Dr. Peter A. Levine, pioneer of Somatic practices and treating trauma and stress. Mentored by a Coach trained by renowned psychiatrist Bessel van Der Kolk and Internal Family Systems founder Richard C. Schwartz.
I empathise with you taking the first step towards managing your wellbeing and putting your trust in a therapeutic relationship. An experienced counsellor equipped in helping people better understand family dynamics with a focus on cultural influences. Exploring issues arising from family systems, stemming from cultural to generational gaps that lead to anxiety or trauma affecting overall wellbeing.
The term family is derived from the Latin word ‘familia’ denoting a household that refers to a “group of individuals living together during important phases of their lifetime. Typically bound to each other by biological and or social and psychological relationship.
My role is to facilitate the session, to listen, understand and meet you where you are at.
Through the therapeutic process I identify and help break down unhealthy patterns of relating, challenge negative beliefs and help you to create healthy boundaries.
The aim being that you become accountable for the change you seek by unravelling old patterns of relating to reveal your authentic self and empowerment.
Whilst the therapeutic relationship is integral to this work, you know yourself best and are the expert on your self.
My approach to counselling
Holistic ‘whole self’…
My approach is holistic, meaning l look at the ‘whole self’, the therapeutic journey conceptualises your lifestyle, circumstances and environment. In particular exploring family dynamics and your relationship with your family members.
The early years play an integral part of your growth from childhood to adulthood. A time where parental styles shape your behaviours, mindset and conditioning. This experience forms the basis of your outlook in life into adulthood.
As an ‘Integrative counsellor’ trained in various therapeutic models, I will apply the relevant therapeutic modality to your counselling. This will be based upon your needs, the presenting issue and your goals and aspirations from counselling.
Counselling is not ‘one-size’ fits all…
You are invited to keep an open mind during the therapeutic process. Counselling is not a 'one-size' fits all, there is no magic wand or quick fix in counselling, the journey is a process and trust within the therapeutic relationship. The onus is on you to work towards the change you desire with help of counselling.
As a culturally informed counsellor I am aware that some western philosophy's are geared towards the ‘individual’ and may not translate to traditional norms of the ‘group’ or ‘the family’ that are quite integral in some cultures. When an ‘individual’s experience enmeshes as part of the ‘group’ or ‘the family’ my expertise in this area provides a sensitive and understanding approach to counselling clients.
‘‘Psychology and Spirituality is a combination of the 'whole self' and my Mindfulness practice is another dimension I can offer in your therapeutic journey’’
Integrating Spirituality
I provide space for my clients to explore faith if they so wish…
This aspect of my work is ‘Spiritual’, exploring a ‘way of life’. Through skills and experience my work incorporates secular psychological theories with spirituality.
Themes a client may wish to explore or may find helpful in their process can range from client beliefs, values, their upbringing and whether that was informed by faith. They may wish to explore their relationship with God in relation to the anxiety or trauma they are experiencing.
Clients are provided the space to explore their faith or spirituality alongside mental health issues.
Spirituality can be thought of as a search, a process, seeking, or to discover, which I have found aligns with the process of Psychology and managing mental health issues.
Kind Client Words
‘’I would just like to Thank you very much for the excellent support you have offered me over these past number of sessions. There is definite progress and a clear path to ‘recovery’. I wish you well in your future and the essential work you are doing’’ All the best.
(Client anonymous for confidentiality reasons)