Our Counsellors
Frome Birth Talk currently have seven counsellors, all of whom take a person-centred approach to therapy. You can read about our counsellors below.
Helen
I joined Frome Birth Talk in June 2018 as a counsellor. I find working with women in pregnancy and the perinatal period very rewarding, and I feel proud to be connected to Frome Birth Talk. Every area should have an organisation like FBT! While pregnancy and early motherhood can be a wonderful time for women, it can also be a time of deep anxiety, trauma, confusion and struggle. We know that help given promptly at this time is often very effective in supporting women towards a better experience of having a baby, and I feel privileged to be involved in this process.
I’ve been working as a counsellor since 2003 in a variety of settings, including higher education, cancer support, workplace counselling, sexual abuse, and general private practice for individuals and couples. A fascination with the workings of the human mind had taken me into a psychology degree in the early 90’s, and after having my family I trained as a counsellor – work which is always enriching. When not working with clients I love to read and listen to audiobooks, and I’m outdoors as often as possible – walking or gardening. I love dancing too - Lindy hop, salsa, or just jigging about in the kitchen – it never fails to lift me. |
My background is in Nursing, this experience has shaped my ability to develop strong and trusting therapeutic relationships with my clients based on compassion and empathy. I work in an integrative way, which means that I use a variety of therapeutic approaches to suit you as an individual. I have a special interest in perinatal support and have been a counsellor for Frome Birth Talk since May 2019. Additionally I work for a children and young peoples charity and have a private practice.
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Tracy
Jane
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I have been working as a counsellor since 2013 and joined Frome Birth Talk in the summer of 2018. I enjoy working with Frome Birth Talk because it seeks in a practical way how to make the world a better and kinder place for parents and their babies.
In one sense, becoming pregnant and looking after a baby should be the most natural thing in the world, but that doesn’t mean it is easy! While often a source of joy, parenthood can be exhausting and frustrating. It can stir up uncomfortable feelings and vulnerabilities, challenging our closest relationships. These things can be difficult to talk about. As a Frome Birth Talk counsellor, I seek to create a warm and non-judgmental place where mothers, potential mothers (and fathers too) can safely explore and navigate the transitions, the struggles and the emotions that accompany the journey of parenthood. |
Lisa
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I’m a counsellor in training at Bath Centre for Psychotherapy and Counselling, and I have over 25 years’ experience of working with people of all ages in a wide variety of contexts, particularly education.
My training is in Humanistic and Integrative Counselling which means I work collaboratively to explore the difficulties parents and families are experiencing, finding ways to facilitate understanding and supporting you as you make changes if that’s what is needed. When we work together, we might talk about your life and relationships now and in the past, including from childhood. I aspire to create a warm and empathic environment in which you can bring whatever feels important to you. |
Melina
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I’m Melina and I was born in Bolivia but now live in Frome. I started working with Frome Birth Talk in November 2021 as a trainee counsellor and I am currently studying for my diploma in Humanistic and Integrative Counselling at Bath Centre for Psychotherapy and Counselling.
Having studied the process of child development during the early years and during pregnancy, I came to realise that the support I can offer parents can provide wide ranging and long-lasting benefits for the whole family. I’m grateful to be able to contribute to the Frome community via Frome Birth Talk. |
Lucy
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I began my career teaching languages both in the UK and abroad. My work was exciting and rewarding in many ways and my love of the nurturing, pastoral side of my role coupled with my interest in human psychology led me to counselling. I am currently studying for a diploma in Humanistic and Integrative Counselling at Bath Centre for Counselling and Psychotherapy.
I joined the team at Frome Birth Talk in October 2021 and feel privileged to be working with a passionate team of people who offer people in the community much needed support at a time of fundamental change in their lives. One day I hope to combine my counselling role with my love of the great outdoors. |