I am a qualified counsellor, trained in the secular person-centred approach model, and a committed Catholic through conversion. Since my conversion I have come to recognise that much, if not all, modern counselling generally offers is suffused with ideology and quasi-philosophical New Age practices that directly conflicts with the teachings of the Church. As such, it can be very hard for a person of faith to trust a therapist whose own beliefs and way of life are so opposed to traditional Catholic teaching. Our faith is now regarded as part of the problem, rather than recognised as our guide and an enrichment to our experience as human beings created in the Image of God. My goal in working with my Catholic clients is to provide an integration of the principles found in the Catholic faith with professional therapeutic techniques.
Each of us is called to grow in our walk with Christ in our own unique way but sometimes we get stuck and need a little help. As an older therapist with six decades of life experience, I can offer some insight and help to my clients, whilst remaining an objective presence.
I cannot promise easy solutions to life's challenges but I can say that I will listen to you in a compassionate and non-judgmental manner. I try to find a bespoke way to work with each client, always remembering to bring a prayerful heart to every session.
Please note that counselling should never be a replacement for the healing of the Sacraments. Neither should a counsellor be a proxy for a priest in matters of doctrine or Church teaching. Rather, counselling can provide a complementary perspective and help you to come to your own decisions, supported by a compassionate, trained listener.
I work via Zoom/Skype but can see a limited number of clients in person. We can also have telephone sessions, if preferred - sometimes, it can be more reassuring to hear someone's voice alone rather than with visuals.
I know how important it is for each client to feel safe, respected and unjudged by their counsellor. I try to create an atmosphere of acceptance and unconditional lovingkindness for my clients, whether that's in-person or online. Our time in therapy together is precious and - dare I say - there is a sacredness to the trust which a client places in their therapist that I remain mindful of and humbled by.
I don't pretend to be an expert on you. You are the expert on you. But I am mindful of how grace may be invited into our therapeutic encounter and becomes a wonderful ally in helping you on your journey to healing. Sometimes, it can be hard to open up to a stranger, even a qualified professional, but I would like to encourage you to trust in the process and take the first step by getting in touch.
