About

I am a BACP registered Integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist. I completed my training here at the University of Derby on the MSc Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP accredited) programme. After completing this programme I went on to complete a full-time clinical role with an Employee Assistance Programme provider.

I am now a Senior Lecturer in Counselling and Psychotherapy with a focus on online learning. This means I mainly work on the online courses provided by the University of Derby. Previous to this role I worked in the university as an Online Learning Adviser which has enabled me to develop a very student-focused approach to teaching.

Away from my teaching role I am also completing a Professional Doctorate in Health and Social Care here at the University of Derby as well as running a small private practice to keep my clinical skills current.

Teaching responsibilities

I programme lead and teach on the following courses:

• UB9AY University Diploma in Counselling Studies and Skills
• OLUBA Universtiy Advanced Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Studies and Skills (Not a Licence for Practice)
• OLUAO BSc (Hons) in Cognitive Behavioural Therapeutic Approaches (top up)
• OLPBP Postgraduate Certificate in Clinical Supervision

Research interests

My Masters research project focussed on muscle dysmorphia. From this, my interest in men's mental health (particularly body image) has developed and I am currently working on ideas for further research.

I am also interested in the role of exercise in talking therapy and this is forming part of doctoral research.

Membership of professional bodies

• Registered member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)

Qualifications

• DPrac Doctorate in Health and Social Care Practice, University of Derby, 2020-present day
• MSc Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP Accredited), 2017-2020
• University Certificate in Psychology, University of Derby, 2015-2016
• LLB Law, University of Northumbria, 2002-2007      

Experience in industry

I have a range of experience working in a range of settings in counselling, mentoring and IAG roles. These include working on a young person's support line, prison employment mentor, welfare to work adviser and a telephone counsellor for a private health company.

Whilst studying for my MSc I completed counselling placements with a bereavement charity, an eating disorder charity and a women's centre.

Recently I also contributed to a working group organised by Mind Charity developing an awareness month called 'Developing a healthy relationship with physical activity'.