VICKIE HANDS (MBACP)
I consider the therapeutic relationship at the heart of the counselling work as it is through the relationship with others that we create meaning and our view of self-worth. You will be welcomed into a warm, empathic, non-judgemental and genuine relationship helping to build a safe space to explore and unpick past or present experiences, allowing for reframing and re-experiencing.
As an Integrative Counsellor working with children, young people and adults over the long and short term, I work within the Relation Integrative Model which bring together aspects of the three main branches of counselling theory – Humanistic, Psychodynamics and Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy, integrating them into an approach that is flexible and tailored to meet the specific needs of the client.
As well as using verbal ways of communication, I work creatively with those who may find it hard to express their thoughts and feelings verbally, or are looking for alternative ways to express and explore. If appropriate to the client, this creativity evolves through the work with an individual and can incorporate, for example, sand tray, imagery, metaphor, modelling clay and art. I believe exploring, either creatively or verbally, can bring about understanding and acceptance, helping to heal and move through current difficulties.
I am knowledgeable and fully committed to issues surrounding Child Protection and Safeguarding across all my work, and ensure ongoing and regular Continued Professional Development, keeping updated with research across the counselling and psychotherapy field.
I am a registered member of the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists and adhere to the BACP Ethical Framework for Counselling Professions and complaint procedures.