I believe that qualifications and continuous professional development are essential for any counsellor or therapist to be able to practice competently and ethically.

Scroll down to see details of my core counselling qualifications, additional qualifications gained, and relevant CPD I have completed.

The Importance of a Counselling Qualification

A counselling qualification is essential for ensuring that therapists have the knowledge, skills, and ethical understanding needed to support clients effectively. Professional training provides a strong foundation in psychological theory, therapeutic techniques, and essential communication skills, allowing counsellors to create a safe and supportive space for clients. It also ensures adherence to industry standards and ethical guidelines, helping to build trust and credibility. Whether working in private practice or an organisation, a formal qualification demonstrates commitment, competence, and the ability to make a meaningful impact in people’s lives.

My core counselling qualification was gained at ACT Counselling and Training Services in Rutherglen, Glasgow.

I first gained a COSCA Certification in Counselling Skills and then a Diploma in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy & Groupwork. The Diploma course is specifically written to meet with COSCA Validation guidelines. The course is validated by COSCA who are the professional body for Counselling and Psychotherapy in Scotland

Additional Qualifications

Certification in Online and Telephone Counselling

Delivered by Counselling Tutor, this fully online course offers over 80 hours of guided learning, mapped to the 2021 BACP and ACTO competencies for online and telephone counselling. It is designed for qualified therapists who hold membership with a recognised ethical body.

Continuous Professional Development

The Importance of CPD for Therapists

Continuous Professional Development (CPD) is essential for therapists to stay informed, skilled, and effective in their practice. As the field of therapy evolves with new research, techniques, and ethical considerations, CPD ensures that professionals remain competent and confident in delivering the best possible care to their clients. Engaging in CPD not only enhances knowledge and skills but also demonstrates a commitment to professional growth, ethical standards, and regulatory requirements. By investing in ongoing learning, therapists can provide high-quality support, adapt to emerging challenges, and maintain the trust of those they help.

CPD Completed

  • Delivered by AM Therapy & Training

  • Delivered by Jo Russell for LGBT Health - via NHS DEI Forum

  • Single Session Therapy: Maximise the Effect of Every Therapeutic Encounter

    Delivered by Windy Dryden for PESI Ltd

  • Delivered by Bespoke MH Events

  • Delivered by Scottish Asian Counselling Services - for those working with Children & Young People

Upcoming Training

  • Delivered by National Counselling Training Institute

    July 2025

  • Using the Mother-Daughter Attachment® Model (MDAM) for Healing and Empowerment

    Delivered by PESI Ltd

    September 2025

  • Autumn 2025

  • For working with clients who have attended boarding school and have unresolved issues related to this

    2026