Maria T.
How would you describe your approach to counselling?
My approach to counselling is Humanistic, I’m a Person-Centred Counsellor meaning that I focus on the individual’s unique feelings, experiences and perspectives. I provide a safe, empathic space where you can talk confidentially free from judgement. We can work together at your pace, where you can explore, understand and share your difficulties. Together we can explore not what’s wrong with you but what’s happened to you. You know yourself best, so I aim to work with you to understand what life is like for you and to help you feel heard and empowered. I’m a registered member of the BACP and adhere to their ethical framework and bound by their principles and values.
What do you think are the most important factors in the counselling relationship?
My aim in the counselling relationship is to provide an environment that promotes autonomy, trust and respect. Providing an ethical and reflective approach to the work that we do together. I will work with you to build trust in the therapeutic relationship so that our time together feels safe and respectful, with no judgement. The sessions are tailored to your needs and working to your goals.
Do you have any special interests or client groups that you work a lot with?
I have worked with people from a range of cultural and diverse backgrounds struggling with life’s difficulties. These include anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem and confidence, stress, burnout, family issues, anger, self-harm, sexual abuse and domestic abuse.
What do you enjoy most about your work as a counsellor?
As a counsellor I am passionate about working with people to help them move towards a more fulfilling and empowering life. I enjoy working with people helping them to understand what is causing their problems and how they can resolve or manage them. Counselling is not about giving people solutions or advice but empowering the person to make their own changes.
Tell us something interesting about yourself.
Before I joined Cardiff Mind I worked with Cardiff Women’s Aid, supporting women who were survivors of domestic and sexual abuse. As well as my counselling work I also work with children with speech and language and communication difficulties.