About Me
Hello, my name is Fran
Hello, my name is Fran
I qualified as a counsellor in 2022 with a Level 4 Advanced Diploma in Integrative Counselling, studied at Heartwood College in Dartington. I trained part-time for 3 years to become a qualified counsellor and am a registered member of the National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society and on their register as qualified to work with Children & Young People.
I offer counselling in my hometown Ivybridge, Devon or online. My main focus is children & young people from 8-18 but I can also support adults. I have experience and knowledge in supporting neuorodiversity and see clients with ADHD, ASC, Dyslexia, DLD and Dyspraxia.
My background
I have a wealth of experience working with children and young people. I work in education and have been a primary school teacher and leader for 35 years, as well as a Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENC0) for 20 years.
I have attended many training courses in neurodiversity, trauma, learning difficulties, attachment and anxiety in addition to my counselling training. Since 2021 I volunteered and worked as a counsellor with Young Devon, working with a range of young people from 11-15 years old. I have also volunteered as an online counsellor for a charity and worked with male and female clients from ages 25-75.
As a mum to three grown-up children myself I understand how important it is for you to find the right support for your child when they are having a difficult time.
Relevant Qualifications
March 2023 Drawing and Talking Practitioner (Foundation course)
August 2022: Diploma in Counselling Children and Young People. Registered on the Children & Young People Counsellors Register with NCS.
July 2022: Level 4 Advanced Diploma in Counselling (2 year course, qualifies to practice as a counsellor)
October 2021: Foundation in Sand Tray therapy
June 2020: Level 3 Award in Counselling
June 2010: Masters in Education (Distinction)
June 1987: Bachelor Education degree with qualified teacher status (2:1)
Important Information
I hold a current DBS Enhanced check and this can be seen on request. I have current Level 3 children and young people’s safeguarding training and Level 2 for safeguarding vulnerable adults. I also hold a current certificate for Emergency First Aid.
I am fully insured as a private counsellor and am a member of the NCS (National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society) and follow their Code of Ethics; they also have a complaints procedure and helpline if required. I undertake regular additional professional development and have monthly supervision sessions.
As a counsellor I do not deliver a 'quick fix' but I am here to listen, support and help you or your child find the best way forward so you have the skills to help you feel stronger and able to face future difficulties.
