Michelle

I am a caring and compassionate counsellor who is deeply committed to supporting adults in developing greater self-awareness and understanding, so they can move toward becoming the version of themselves they most want to be.  

I hold a Level 4 Diploma in Psychodynamic Counselling and work integratively, underpinned by Person-Centred principles, drawing on

approaches such as DBT and CBT, where appropriate.

My practice is collaborative, respectful, and grounded in the belief that lasting change begins with insight, reflection and self-compassion, developed within a trusting therapeutic relationship built on client-led goals and desired outcomes. I have extensive knowledge and training in neurodiversity (ND), particularly ADHD and Autism, and work with diagnosed and undiagnosed individuals.  

I have experience supporting adults with a wide range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, emotional regulation challenges, depression, trauma-related challenges, dissociation and bereavement.  

Using psychodynamic principles, I help clients explore how early experiences and defences, familial cultures and scripts shape present-day thoughts, feelings and relationships, creating a safe space for reflection, healing and growth.

I am known for my warmth and approachability, quickly establishing trust and rapport to support clients through life’s transitions, relational difficulties, and emotional challenges with understanding and care.

Key Experience and Skills — Adults

• Qualified Counsellor with a Level 4 Diploma in Psychodynamic Counselling, practising integratively and underpinned by Person-Centred Counselling.

• Skilled in using psychodynamic principles to explore early childhood experiences and trauma, helping clients understand how past relationships and defences may influence current patterns and behaviours.

• Extensive experience working with neurodivergent adults, including those with late-diagnosed ADHD, Autism, and a range of other neurodevelopmental profiles, with a deep understanding of the lifelong impact of unmet needs, masking, and internalised experiences. Recognises the emotional toll of rejection sensitivity dysphoria (RSD) and

The challenges that can arise in establishing and maintaining relationships, whether through efforts to blend in, impulsive responses, or difficulties with trust and belonging, can support individuals in understanding these patterns with compassion, developing self-acceptance, and building more authentic, supportive connections with others.

• Experience supporting adults with a wide range of mental health difficulties, including anxiety, depression, trauma-related challenges, dissociation and loss.

• Volunteered with Wirral Mind, working with adults experiencing varied mental health challenges and vulnerabilities and its impact on their significant relationships.

• Trained with Cruse Bereavement Service, providing specialist, sensitive support to adults navigating grief and loss.

• Experienced in supporting adults to recognise and reframe maladaptive coping mechanisms, developing healthier, more adaptive ways of managing emotional distress.

• Skilled in supporting adults transitioning to new environments, for example, students moving to university, adapting to new routines, responsibilities and social contexts, and navigating increased challenges related to sensory and executive functioning differences.

• Experienced in helping clients explore and strengthen interpersonal relationships such as family and/or romantic relationships, building greater self-awareness, communication, resilience and emotional regulation.

• Sensitive to cultural diversity, identity and difference, ensuring an inclusive and affirming practice that respects each individual’s background and lived experience.

• Described as warm, approachable, and easy to be around, building trust and rapport quickly to create a safe, grounded therapeutic space.

• Knowledgeable in working with complex presentations, including trauma, dissociation, and long-term emotional difficulties, offering containment and insight-focused support.