Hello,
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I’m Joanne (you can call me Jo). I'm a Psychotherapeutic Counsellor, Hypnotherapist, and a Birth and Breastfeeding Practitioner based in a peaceful village nestled between Chelmsford, Dunmow, and Braintree. Living in the countryside, I find inspiration and a sense of calm in nature and creativity—both of which shape my gentle, compassionate approach to therapy.
After the birth of my three children, I felt drawn to follow my passion for helping others. Having experienced firsthand how powerful therapy can be, it felt like the right time to retrain as a counsellor, leaving behind my previous career in project management and marketing in the IT industry.
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I work with people navigating a wide range of challenges—whether you're adjusting to a new stage of life, healing from past experiences, managing anxiety or stress, or seeking personal growth. My own journey into motherhood, and later volunteering to support new mums in local children’s centres, sparked a deep passion for maternal mental health. As a result, I also offer therapy specifically tailored to supporting women during pregnancy, birth, the postnatal period, and beyond.
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I know that reaching out for help can feel daunting. Starting therapy is a big step, which is why I work in a relational and collaborative way—gently pacing sessions to suit your needs. My aim is to offer a warm, non-judgemental space where you can feel heard, supported, and able to be yourself.
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As a pluralistic therapist, I draw on a range of therapeutic approaches, which means I can adapt the way we work to suit what feels right for you. Sometimes that might simply be offering a space to talk and be heard. At other times, it could involve learning practical tools to manage anxiety or stress, or exploring deeper patterns shaped by your past. However we work together, the process will always be flexible and responsive—because your experience is unique, and your path forward should be too.​
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MY THERAPEUTIC APPROACH
I am a pluralistic counsellor, which means I believe there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. Each person is different—and what helps one person might not be the right fit for someone else. I take time to explore what matters to you, what you hope to get out of therapy, and how we can work together in a way that feels meaningful and useful.
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In practice, this means I draw from a range of approaches depending on your needs, preferences, and goals. These may include:
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Person-centred therapy – This is the foundation of my work. It’s about offering empathy, acceptance, and a genuine therapeutic relationship, so you feel heard and understood without judgment.​
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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – Useful for understanding how your thoughts and behaviours influence how you feel, and exploring practical tools for change.
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Psychodynamic therapy – This helps us look at how past experiences and unconscious patterns may be shaping your present difficulties.
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Hypnotherapy – As a qualified Hypnotherapist, I can also integrate hypnotherapy to support relaxation, access deeper states of awareness, or work with specific issues such as anxiety, phobias, confidence, or habits.
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Together, we’ll shape therapy in a way that works for you—drawing from different ideas and methods to support your unique journey
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TRAINING & EXPERIENCE
I am an Accredited Registrant Member of the National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society, which is accredited by the Professional Standards Authority.
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In addition I'm a trained Hypnotherapist and an Easibirthing® Hypnotic Birth Practitioner, I also have additional training in breadtfeeding support and perinatal mental health.
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My Qualifications and Training:
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Level 5 Professional Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling Practice
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NCFE Cache Level 3 in Perinatal Mental Health
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Level 4 Diploma in Counselling Skills & Theory
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Level 3 Diploma in Hypnotherapy and Counselling Skills
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NCFE Cache Level 2 in Mental Health First Aid
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​Hypnotherapy for Anxiety & Panic – The Hypnotherapy Academy
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Hypnotherapy for Phobias – The Hypnotherapy Academy
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The Rewind Technique for PTSD & Phobias – Uncommon Knowledge
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Easibirthing® Postnatal Mental Health & Early Parenting Relationships – National College of Hypnosis and Psychotherapy
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Easibirthing® Hypnobirthing for Practitioners Course – National College of Hypnosis and Psychotherapy
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Love Your Birth Hypnobirthing Expansion Course – Fendant Accredited, Love Your Birth Training School
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Mindful Breastfeeding Practitioner Training – The Mindful Breastfeeding School
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Mindful Breastfeeding Reflections: Breastfeeding Listening Service – The Mindful Breastfeeding School
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Breastfeeding Management & Relationship Building – Unicef UK
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Mother Supporter – Association of Breastfeeding Mothers
