Hi, I’m Helena (she/they)
I am a BACP registered Humanistic and Integrative Counsellor & Psychotherapist. I have experience working with people who have decided to seek out therapy for a variety of reasons, including anxiety, self-esteem, depression, burnout, trauma and identity.
My particular areas of interest are neurodivergence, gender and sexual identity, and religious/spiritual trauma.
My therapeutic approach is down-to-earth and collaborative. I value each client’s unique experience of the world and believe that therapy works best when we can meet on a genuine, human-to-human level.
I see therapy as a space to explore who we are, process our experiences and reflect on how we relate to ourselves and others.
My role is to support you in this, with curiosity, honesty and compassion.
My Therapeutic Approach
I trained in Humanistic and Integrative therapy, so my approach is based around the idea that all human beings have inherent worth and that each of our experiences in the world is unique and valid.
I draw from Person-centred, Gestalt and Existential therapy theories, which all emphasise the importance of an empathetic, non-judgemental and secure therapeutic relationship in creating space for self-awareness, healing and growth.
My approach is also informed by trauma theory, attachment theory, and concepts of intersectionality, social justice and anti-oppressive practice.
My approach is LGBTQIA+, kink and polyamory affirming.
If this aligns with what you’re looking for in a therapist, I’d love to hear from you.
Qualifications and Training
BSc (Hons) Counselling & Psychotherapy
Sherwood Psychotherapy Training Institute (in partnership with Staffordshire University)
CPD: A Humanistic and Integrative Approach to Working with Young People
Sherwood Psychotherapy Training Institute
I also have further training in:
Working Therapeutically with Adult ADHD; Minority Stress Theory; Trans Health; Understanding Kink; Mental Health First Aid.
Professional Experience
Volunteer Counsellor at Trade Sexual Health, Leicester, UK
Volunteer Counsellor at Choose Therapy, UK (online)
Volunteer Student Counsellor at Bilborough Sixth Form College, Nottinghamshire, UK
As a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), I work in line with their Ethical Framework.
A little more about me…
I know it can be helpful to know a bit about who your therapist is as a person, so here’s a little more about me. My parents are Brazilian and German, and I’ve spent time living in London, Nottingham, Lancaster, Manchester and Berlin. Before training as a therapist, I worked in the specialty coffee industry for many years (so there’s usually decent coffee in my therapy room). Outside of my work, I enjoy running, wild swimming, film photography and learning about folklore.