juleesmart1@gmail.com
+44 (0)7592 231883
About Me
I understand approaching a counsellor for the first time can be daunting. From the outset I offer a confidential, non-judgemental, safe and secure environment where you can talk about how you are feeling and gain deeper insight into any difficulties you may be experiencing. If you are unsure, or you have any questions about counselling, we can have a brief talk prior to committing to sessions. I will aim to support you to feel at ease in taking this first step.
I am a qualified counsellor, accredited and registered with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I have 15 years of experience working with adults with a wide range of presenting concerns including bereavement and loss, depression, stress and anxiety, trauma, obsessive behaviours, relationship difficulties, transition and major life changes, low self-esteem and self-worth.
I also offer couple and relationship therapy, facilitating and supporting with: identifying the underlying reasons for challenges within relationships; improving communication skills; understanding and resolving conflict; reconnecting and/or rediscovering moments of connection and attachment.
How I Work
Following an initial phone call (for which there is no charge) we may arrange to meet for an assessment session which will determine whether the counselling I offer is appropriate to your needs and also for you to decide if you would like to work with me. After assessment, and depending on your needs, I can offer short-term counselling which can be anywhere between 8-20 sessions with a focus on a particular concern, or open-ended counselling to explore deep-rooted feelings and past experiences that can affect daily life.
I have a professional practice room in Watford, Hertfordshire. As well as delivering face-to-face counselling, I am trained in delivering online counselling via telephone and webcam Zoom.
Training, Qualifications & Experience
I am a trained psychodynamic counsellor. I also work within an integrative model, incorporating different approaches in order to meet individual need. As an accredited member of the BACP, I work to their Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions which requires attendance at regular clinical supervision and continued professional development (CPD). I have in-depth understanding of the therapeutic process gained from 15 years of providing open-ended psychodynamic and short-term focused counselling to individuals presenting a broad range of concerns. I offer couple and relationship therapy having completed specialist training in Couple/Relationship Therapy accredited by COSRT at level 5. I also have several years experience in delivering clinical and emotional wellbeing supervision to staff and volunteers within the health care and educational sector. I work with clients from a diverse range of social and cultural backgrounds. I have previously worked in hospices, schools and counselling organisations.
My qualifications include:
BSc (Hons) in Reflective Therapeutic Practice (Metanoia Institute/Middlesex University)
Diploma in Psychodynamic Counselling (WPF/Herts and Beds Counselling Foundation)
Certificate in Attachment Narrative therapy theory and skills
Certificate in Couple and Relationship Therapy (The Grove - Accredited by COSRT at level 5)
Certificate in Online Counselling, Audio and Webcam (OCST)
