About me:

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Hi, my name is Nikki and I've been a practising, qualified counsellor since 2012. As well as being a counsellor, I am also a qualified counselling supervisor. I hold a Batchelor of Arts in Counselling and I am a registered member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP). I’d love to think that my clients would describe me as a warm, relatable, down to earth and approachable therapist. I have over 10 years experience of working with children and young people, with particular extensive experience of counselling in a primary school setting.

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Specialist interest:

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I’m passionate about both play and art therapy; sometimes it can be hard to talk about the way we feel but may find it easier to express within the metaphor of play or with paint strokes on a canvas.

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Clinical experience:

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I have been a school based counsellor for over 10 years now. During this time I feel very privileged to have been a part of so many powerful counselling journeys with the children I have worked with. Working with children of various ages (from 4 to 16) with ever changing needs and presentations means I adapt my approach to best suit each individual client. Whether that be play therapy with a younger child who finds it hard to articulate how they feel, a more traditional view of counselling with a 16 year old where issues are verbalised, or the melding of the two. No matter your age, we will work together to find what approach best suits you! As well as having extensive experience in play therapy, art therapy and sand tray work, being predominately school based also has brought therapeutic group work, specialised focused class work and whole school assemblies on mental health to my table. Working with children also has brought me experience in working with families; working closely with parents/carers or having a family sessions.

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Clinical approaches: 

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Having originally trained using the psychodynamic approach, I now draw firmly upon humanistic qualities such as the importance of the therapeutic relationship, unconditional positive regard, congruence and empathy in my practice. Attachment theory and psychoeducation also have a place in my counselling room.

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Qualifications and Training  (not including CPD):

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Diploma in Counselling Supervision - 2020

Batchelor of Arts – Counselling – 2013

Foundation Degree in Arts – Counselling – 2012

Level 1, Level 2 & Level 3 in Counselling – 2009 to 2010

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What are you passionate about:

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I am passionate about many things in my role. From the use of metaphor to express conscious or unconscious feelings to psychoeducation to help you understand why you may be feeling the way you are. As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community myself, I have a particular interest in LGBTQIA+ issues and experiences.