About Me: Your Qualified Relationship Counsellor
Hello, I am Nicola, a qualified relationship counsellor here to support you through life’s relational challenges. I offer both individual and relationship counselling to help you navigate these complexities. My practice serves both young people and adults.
Relationships shape every part of our lives, and when communication breaks down, it can lead to confusion, conflict, and emotional distress. Whether you're navigating a romantic relationship, a family dynamic, or your relationship with yourself, individual and relationship counselling provides a safe and supportive space to explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment.
Our relationships are a vital part of how we see ourselves. Very few people go through life without experiencing a difficult relationship at some point. We encounter many relationships from childhood to adulthood, and we all learn different relational scripts. Understanding yours may help you develop a deeper understanding of yourself. We carry unique relational patterns shaped by our past, starting from childhood to the present. Recognising these patterns can help you improve current relationships and respond differently moving forward.
In both individual and relationship counselling, a safe space is created to enable you to hear and understand yourself and your behaviors more clearly. In this environment, you can begin to feel more connected to yourself and make choices that align with your values. From this place of understanding, real change becomes possible. When exploring relationships—whether with a partner, parent, child, or sibling—we delve into shared goals, misunderstandings, and ways to communicate more effectively.
We are never completely the same person in each of our relationships, so reflection and understanding of ourselves is crucial. When a relationship breaks down, we are often left questioning ourselves, feeling confused and sometimes overwhelmed. In counselling, the communication breakdown can be explored. Often, relationships can be rebuilt, especially when new ways to communicate needs, desires, and goals are discovered. Sadly, not all relationships can or should be repaired, but with emotional distress support, you can find healing.
I draw from a range of therapeutic approaches, primarily psychodynamic and systemic theories. I will use my understanding and knowledge of different theories to help you navigate your way through difficult times.
Reaching out for counselling can be an important first step toward positive change. Counselling offers a safe and confidential environment where you can be vulnerable and share your story. The therapeutic relationship is vital in helping you feel safe. I’m here to walk alongside you, offering insight, compassion, and support, and to provide a space for you to find your voice as well as your ability to listen to yourself. Sometimes, exploring the possibility of a new story can be the road to change and a different journey.
The commitment to create positive changes is ultimately up to you. Learning that the choices we make will shape our lives is crucial. I rarely meet a person who doesn’t feel that counselling has helped them in some way. I hope that I can support you in building a stronger relationship with both yourself and others.
Training, Qualifications and Experience
I hold an Advanced Diploma in Counselling (Psychodynamic) from Anglia Ruskin University and a Certificate in Couple and Family Counselling from the Institute of Family Therapy in London. Additionally, I have completed Mentalisation Training, focusing on Mentalisation Based Therapy for parents under pressure at Tavistock Relationships. I am a qualified relationship counsellor with a Certificate of Proficiency as a Relationship Counsellor from Relate London. My credentials also include a Counselling Skills Certification in Bereavement Counselling and an NCFE CACHE Certificate in Understanding Children and Young People’s Mental Health. Furthermore, I possess a Certificate in Online and Telephone Counselling from The Counselling Tutor.
To provide effective support in my counselling, I engage in regular ongoing professional development to ensure my skills are continually maintained and refreshed.
Member of Organisations
British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) offers essential resources for those seeking emotional distress support, including access to qualified relationship counsellors who specialize in individual and relationship counselling. Additionally, the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) plays a vital role in safeguarding privacy in these therapeutic practices.