Mary by the sea

It can feel like a big step coming to therapy so firstly I'd like to give you a warm welcome! I'm Mary - a mum, partner and wild sea-swimmer who is passionate about nature and cares deeply about equity and fairness. My relationship with the sea is hugely important to me, sustaining and holding me through life's challenges - hence Mary by the sea.

Why counselling?

Brené Brown wrote; “Connection is why we’re here - it’s what gives meaning and purpose to our lives”. So what happens when those connections aren't feeling right? Perhaps you can’t work out what needs to change, or need some emotional support to get you through a tricky patch, or maybe you're feeling stuck, anxious or struggling with relationships with others or yourself. Whatever it is that you bring will be met with empathy, gentle curiosity without judgment. 

We’re also living in times of great upheaval in what can feel like a scary and chaotic world. Perhaps this makes you feel overwhelmed, frightened, or disconnected from life, from others, or you’re struggling to find your place in it all. Whatever it is, I will support you as we work through these difficult emotions together.

When life throws curve balls it can feel like you’re struggling under a heavy load - but you don’t have to do this on your own. I’d like to support you, sharing your load and walking alongside you in order to understand what’s stopping life from feeling manageable, balanced and meaningful for you. In order to do this I will provide a warm, nourishing and safe space for you to bring whatever is on your mind. Being able to explore your thoughts and feelings in a safe and confidential environment is often the first step in making positive change in your life.

How I work

I’ve an advanced diploma in Person Centred Counselling (PCT) and believe that all of us, given the right conditions, are able to live in a more balanced and meaningful way. I will focus on accompanying you as you start to make sense of your world, building a strong therapeutic relationship so you feel truly heard, and empowering you to see your way through the muddle. I have a Trauma-informed approach and will be guided by the pace you want to work and what you want to bring.

As a creative person I can draw on different elements to help you but only if you’re comfortable with this - my focus is on you, and your needs. My aim is to help you understand yourself a little better so you can start to make the changes you want to make in your life and are able to move to living in a healthier, more fulfilling way.

Young people work

Life is often a roller-coaster for YP, it can feel hard, draining, overwhelming and scary for them, they can have little autonomy and huge peer pressure but they’re also incredible and have huge potential.  I’ve an Advanced Professional Certificate in working with young people aged 16 - 18, and work as a volunteer for Exeter College’s Counselling Team.  I’m passionate about supporting middle and late adolescents supporting the bridge as they move from childhood to adulthood and start to find out who they really are. 

Walk and talk therapy

I offer this around Exmouth, both beside the estuary, and at Woodbury Castle. I believe that being outdoors can be hugely beneficial and use the landscape to help you understand more about you and your inner self. 

Next steps

Fancy a chat? If you’re interested and would like an informal, free 15 minutes conversation to see if we're a good fit then please email me, [email protected] and we’ll take it from there!

Cost

£50 per therapy hour