I originally studied Community Theatre Arts and went on to work in a variety of theatre companies, touring both theatre and issue-based workshops to community settings and schools around the country. It was through working with young people that I went on to train as a Drama Therapist. I was keen to create a safe space to explore the sometimes, difficult issues that were being presented through the theatre drama workshops. After I qualified as a Drama Therapist, I went on to work as a therapist in a wide variety of settings, working with children, young people and adults in the public health and education sectors which have all informed and developed my professional skills over the last thirty year.
I have gained further specialist therapy training and I am qualified in Interpersonal Psychotherapy and EMDR, which I have integrated into my creative therapy practice. I have a particular interest in working with trauma and have undertaken further advanced education in attachment and trauma.
For the last thirteen years I worked for the NHS within CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health), as a Therapist and a Primary Mental Health Practitioner, working with local schools, offering staff training, consultations and group supervision. I currently work in private practice alongside my role as a Psychological Therapist in Adult Mental Health for the Devon Partnership NHS Trust.
I undertook Integrative and Transpersonal training in supervision at the Manchester Institute of Psychotherapy and I am also a registered and BADth (British association of Dramatherapy) accredited Dramatherapy Supervisor. I have extensive experience as a supervisor both for individuals and with groups for a wide range of professionals and students (including teaching staff, psychologists, arts therapists, social workers and mental health nurses).
Through Individual and Staff Reflective Practice Groups, I am keen to provide a supportive space to reflect on systems, processes and relationships that are active within the organisation. Through my own supervision experience, I know how important it is to have a safe and confidential place to explore and develop further understanding of our professional roles, relationships and the impact our work can have on us.
