A bit about me.
My name is Karen. I am a passionate, qualified, and experienced Integrative counsellor who works with individuals aged 16 and above, couples, and families. I am a member of the NCPS and work within the ethical framework. My aim is always to help others, as it was in my previous career in nursing and midwifery; this gives me great satisfaction and fuels my passion for the counselling service I offer.
I am passionate and value the importance of listening to and validating your concerns. My core values are rooted in compassion, empathy, trust and treating others with dignity and respect.
I hold a master's degree in Relationship Counselling and feel privileged to work with couples and families, which requires an open and trusting therapeutic relationship between all parties involved. Any relationship can be complex, and sometimes we need help from someone we are not familiar with. I know how difficult it can be to attend counselling and admit that there are issues in a relationship or, indeed, individually that you need help with. Still, it can help you make changes and build a stronger relationship. We are all different and unique, and sometimes relationships get stuck in negative cycles. However, we can move towards positive changes with help in understanding these cycles, our emotional responses, and behaviors. It is a privilege for me to share this journey with you. There are many reasons couples and families attend counselling, a few of which are conflict, communication issues, infidelity, intimacy issues, and trust issues. Sometimes couples who say they are "stuck" will attend and need help to identify why. I can also help support couples who feel they cannot rebuild their relationship and need some help in the process of divorce or separation, if this is your chosen path.
I believe that everyone can explore their inner resources with the help of a counsellor and achieve positive changes to relieve their concerns, improve their general well-being, and /or their relationships, offering increased future happiness.
I offer a safe, confidential, calm, and nonjudgmental space for you to share your concerns openly. I am a quiet, empathic, genuine, and warm individual, and my passion is to help you overcome any difficulties or concerns you may be experiencing.

My Approach
I am an Integrative counsellor who adopts different theories to suit the client's needs. I particularly adopt a systemic approach, which means I explore the influences of family, community, and broader society that make up our individuals and can impact our relationships. There are so many challenges in life today which can ultimately affect us as individuals and in our relationships, causing concerns and difficulties. These can cause us to feel overwhelmed and unable to manage.
Everyone is unique and possesses strengths, some of which we don't always realise, or maybe we are unsure how to use them in certain circumstances. We might know concerns, but we cannot communicate them effectively, resulting in behaviors that can lead to further conflict in relationships.
I can help by working with you openly, exploring any concerns you may have, and finding ways to move forward. This involves an initial assessment and planning goals together. I am experienced in using a variety of theories, which can help achieve the changes you require.
I have previously worked with Individuals, couples, and families at Relate and other organisations. I continue to access regular professional development courses to ensure I offer you the best possible service.
I particularly specialise in the following:
Anxiety, Depression, bereavement, anger issues, relationships, infant loss, postnatal depression, termination and infant loss, PTSD and abuse.
Couples & Families.
If you would like to talk please contact me: info@collective-thoughts.org