Michelle Dunne
Authentic . Diverse . Relational
Being heard in a safe and confidential space where you are met with warmth, compassion and acceptance is, in my experience, invaluable. This is what I aim to offer to the people I work with.
A space and time set aside, just for you, to be how you need to be - without judgement or anyone else’s agenda placed upon you.
The quality of the therapeutic relationship between client and counsellor is one of the key factors in achieving effective outcomes and I believe that my existing clientele would assert that they feel cared for and valued in their work with me.
My practice is based in Person-Centred theory and the majority of my training has been undertaken with Lifetime Learning on their CPCAB certificated courses. I am a registered member of the BACP and work to the standards of their Ethical Framework and have recently started my level 6 Clinical Supervision qualification.
In previous careers, I have worked with people experiencing crises and trauma, especially with sudden and violent deaths. Grief and loss are areas close to my heart and come up for people all the time in many different ways. Having space and time to grieve with someone to be next to you whilst it’s painful, can really offer comfort and movement towards some healing over time. I really acknowledge that losing our beloved pets can be just as devastating as losing a person and I can support you if this is something that you are going through.
As a late-diagnosed AuDHD woman, I work with a large proportion of neurodivergent clients who might have already received a diagnosis or be on a pathway towards it.
I consider myself to be open-minded and embracing of different kinds of lifestyles and family configurations. My own path has encompassed both same-sex and heterosexual relationships and a lot of my work is with people who identify within the LGBTQIA+ community. I work with many university students and support them with the variety of challenges that they face whilst they are away from home. Working with students means a lot to me as I can remember how difficult I found it to be hundreds of miles away from home and trying to manage everything that life was throwing at me without my usual support network on hand.
My own life these days pretty much centres around my three dogs and enjoying the outdoors with them. Eco-therapy and working outdoors with clients is something I really enjoy. I’ve found the power of walking and fresh air very therapeutic for myself, and I believe that when we look after our bodies, we really do look after our minds at the same time. I love to travel, adore the sunshine and feel grateful to be able to work with all kinds of people who are brave enough to be vulnerable with me. What a privilege that is. I hope to meet you soon.
Qualifications:
Level 5 Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling (currently studying) - Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling - Level 2 Motivational Interviewing DBT - Level 3 Counselling Studies
Level 3 Diploma in Policing - Level 2 Counselling Skills - BEd (Hons) QTS English and Education
CPD: Safeguarding Adults & Children Certificates - GDPR Certificate - Equality, Diversity and Discrimination Certificate - Suicide Awareness Certificate
Public Liability Insurance held
BEd (Hons) Dip Couns
Member of the BACP