Waves to Willows Counselling

As an integrative therapist I recognise that there is not one single approach, as the reasons for pulling will be different for everyone. It is important to understand what the urge to hair pull means to then help you gain some agency over how you respond to it. Together we can explore what happens and how you feel before, during and after pulling. This can help us understand triggers, whether the pulling is automatic and identify the changes you would like to see. Some people might work with me using CBT techniques to identify triggers and patterns, experimenting with different ways to break habits and respond to urges. Others might feel they want to explore what is happening for them around the pulling such as stress, anxiety, low self-esteem or historical trauma. They may want to find new ways to soothe or regulate their emotions. Many feel that they would like a mix of both approaches and that is why it is important that we work at your pace and in a way which feels comfortable and safe for you at all times. When working with young people, I work alongside parents so that they can support their child without the pulling becoming a source of shame or family conflict. Most of all, I work from a place of warmth and connection, supporting clients to move from distress and shame, towards self-awareness and self-compassion.

Hi, I'm Deb, a BACP registered integrative counsellor working with young people (12+) in Newcastle and online across the UK. I work for charities, schools and in my own private practice. As an integrative therapist I have trained in a range of therapies, including humanistic, CBT, psychodynamic, outdoor and art therapy. I recognise that everyone has different strengths and difficulties so always tailor my approach to your needs and preferences. I believe that building a strong relationship, and working collaboratively at your own pace, will help you to feel safe to explore your feelings and find ways to change habits and any unhelpful patterns. I specialise in anxiety, trauma-recovery, loss, life transitions, domestic abuse, workplace stress and supporting those with visible difference and long-term health conditions. I work in a neuro-affirming and gender-affirming way. I know how daunting it can feel to consider therapy so I offer a free initial, no-obligation telephone conversation so that you can decide whether I'm the best fit for you.

• BSc Psychology
• Primary PGCE
• Postgraduate Certificate in SEND Education
• Forest School Leader Certificate
• Diploma in Counselling
• ADHD Practitioner Certificate
• Autism Education Trust Training
• Calming the Trauma Storm Training
• KIT CBT Training Course
• Papyrus SPEAK Suicide Prevention Certificate
• Child and Adult Advanced Safeguarding Certification
• BCTS Attachment and Trauma Training
• ACORNS TIME Trauma- Informed Training

I offer a free no-obligation telephone discussion for you to decide whether I could be the right therapist for you or your child. If you would like to go ahead, we can work on-line or face-to-face in Newcastle on Thursdays, Fridays or Saturday. I also offer some evening and Sunday appointments. Most sessions are weekly 50-minute appointments but some clients prefer longer 90-minute sessions instead. We can decide on the length and frequency of sessions to work flexibly around your life and what works for you.