We’re all on a Journey

People are fascinating. We are complicated and confusing and can appear very unpredictable. Many years ago, intent on understanding why I am like I am, why the people around me are like they are, and if there’s any hope for us all, I studied a Psychology degree. I even taught Psychology for a while. But Psychology couldn’t explain enough, so I trained as a counsellor. Still seeking insight, several years later I trained as a mental health nurse. Having approached human understanding from scientific and analytical perspectives, I finally trained in aromatherapy, adding a more spiritual element. More than thirty years after this line of enquiry began, I am a counsellor with an interest in aromatherapy and I have a brand-new website!

My journey

Was it really that straightforward? No, that’s not the full picture. I have taken many twists and turns, often necessitated by the demands of family life. But my experiences have helped me to learn a lot along the way.

Counselling

In terms of studying, the counselling diploma provided the deepest dive into the human psyche, including my own. Turns out counselling training is not for the faint-hearted, because in order to understand and support others you first have to take a long, hard look at yourself. Strong self-awareness and an ongoing commitment to addressing what you find is key to ensuring that the counsellor’s “stuff” is not impacting the therapeutic relationship. We’ve all got “stuff”, but a counselling session is a safe space for the client to be supported in exploring solely their own issues.

Aromatherapy

Whilst mental health nursing provided valuable learning and an opportunity to use my counselling skills in a different setting, I felt that I had moved in a very clinical direction. Seeking some self-care, I treated myself to an aromatherapy massage. And a new passion was born! I trained as an aromatherapist and continue to use essential oils to support body, mind and spirit.

So what?

So now, I have a lovely room in a Therapy Hub in Haworth where I offer face to face and online counselling sessions. It has been a long and interesting journey to get here, but every experience is valuable and there is always something to be learned. I’m looking forward to developing this space and seeing where the future takes me.