I offer a professional, empathic approach, in which clients can explore their issues, without being judged or being offered advice. I believe that life events and childhood experiences can affect people's well being, emotional health and relationships. I strongly believe that people have the capacity to fulfil their own unique potential, and can be supported to find answers and a way forward which feels right for them. Each of us is different and has different needs at any given time and as an integrative counsellor, I am able to incorporate a range of "tools" from various models of counselling to suit individual needs. My therapeutic approach is based on Humanistic/Person Centred, Psychodynamic and Transpersonal theory; and I also have an understanding of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) techniques and am able to integrate these where appropriate.
Foundation Degree in Integrative Counselling (Greenwich University)
NCFE Certificates in Counselling Skills and Theory (Guildford College)
BA (hons) degree in English (Leeds University)
Post Grad degree in Human Resources Management (Leeds Met)
Accredited Member of British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)
I have received Continued Professional Development training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Couples Counselling, Drug & Alcohol Addiction, Domestic Abuse, Child Protection, Mindfulness, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Grief and Bereavement, Creative Counselling Techniques, Suicide and Self harm, Adolescent and Young People's issues, Transactional Analysis (TA) and working with Dreams amongst others.
I receive on going training to enhance my personal and professional development, and have regular supervision, in line with BACP guidelines.
I am a volunteer with East Surrey Domesic Abuse Service (ESDAS), working one to one with survivors of domestic abuse, and helping to deliver The Freedom Programme to groups of women who have experienced Domestic Abuse.
I am a trained addiction counsellor and work for CATALYST, offering counselling support for people with drug, alcohol, gambling and other addiction issues. I also work with family members or friends who may be affected by their loved ones' addiction.
I also worked at a Sixth Form College, providing counselling for students aged 16 to 19.
I have worked for an organisation providing short term counselling for Young People and Adolescents (age 12 to 25), based in various NHS settings
I have several years experience working as an Adviser at the Citizen's Advice Bureau, helping with debt, housing, family and other issues.
I worked for Familyline Surrey, a telephone listening service specialising in family/relationship issues.
My previous career was in in Human Resources, which gives me valuable experience and insight into work related issues such as stress/redundancy/retirement/career change, workplace bullying, etc.
© Niki Ridgley
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