Hello, I’m Shirley, Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist

I have trained in a variety of therapeutic approaches and in 2013, I initially qualified in person-centred counselling and later qualified in pluralistic counselling. As Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a structured and evidence-based form of psychological treatment, which advances using both research and clinical practice, I completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Psychological Therapies at The University of Edinburgh, specialising in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). During this time, I worked as a School Counsellor and worked a couple of days a week as a Student Counsellor at a Further Education College.

Previously, I have worked for over 35 years in education and accredited learning, including coaching and mentoring. My work life has always involved developing individuals, whether it be academically or personally, and I have taken these transferable skills into my therapeutic work.

I have also blended this experience with my CBT practice to offer Cognitive Behavioural Coaching (CBC). Both approaches are goal-oriented and CBC integrates established management coaching techniques with evidence-based clinical experience of psychological approaches i.e. CBT

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I also believe in supporting others and have always volunteered as part of my belief in supporting young people through mentoring care-experienced individuals, befriending, and being on the Children’s Hearing System.

I offer a warm, genuine and compassionate approach and aim to create a non-judgemental, safe space where you can explore challenges and move forward using CBT techniques.

Throughout my life, I have been fortunate to meet and hear others’ stories and life experiences and really respect the personal resilience and courage that individuals demonstrate to overcome their challenges and the desire to be happy in themselves.

When I am not working, I can usually be found at the beach trying to run after my dogs, Luna and Mabel.

Qualifications

  • Postgraduate Diploma in Psychological Therapies (CBT) (Distinction),

    The University of Edinburgh

  • Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT),

    The Institute of Counselling

  • Postgraduate Certificate in Counselling Studies (Merit),

    Abertay University

  • COSCA Counselling and Psychotherapy Counselling Skills Certificate (1&2),

    University of Aberdeen

Previous Qualifications

  • Master of Laws (LLM) in Employment Law and Practice,

    Robert Gordon University

  • Postgraduate Diploma in Personnel Management,

    Robert Gordon Business School

  • BSc. Pure Science,

    University of Aberdeen

Professional Bodies

I am an accredited member of The British Association for Behavioural & Cognitive Psychotherapies (MBABCP) and registered member of The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP) and work to their professional standards of conduct, performance and ethics. I am on the Professional Standards Authority Accredited Register which ensures practitioners have met the Authority’s demanding standards including professional education and training.

I hold full Professional Indemnity Insurance and my practice adheres to the General Data Protection Regulations, 2018. I am registered with The Information Commissioner's Office Reg. No ZB454051. I am PVG registered to work with adults and children. The Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) membership scheme is managed and delivered by Disclosure Scotland.

Is my approach right for you?

Arrange a free 15 minute consultation to find out.
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