My training and experience
I've always had a strong interest in psychology, neuroscience and what makes people tick.
My professional journey into counselling began with foundation training in psychodynamic counselling, followed by a Diploma in Integrative Counselling, which I completed in 2018.
During my training, I volunteered as a student counsellor at Longfield in Minchinhampton and Listening Post in Stroud, alongside completing additional training in bereavement and grief counselling.
My interest in working with young people led me to undertake specialist training with Teens in Crisis (TIC+), where I gained experience working with young people in school settings.
In 2019, I completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Child, Adolescent and Family Well-being with the Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, University of Essex.
Following this, I worked as a therapeutic counsellor at Novalis Trust, initially with young people and later at Paradise House, supporting adults with a variety of learning disabilities.
During the pandemic, I completed an 80-hour course in Online and Telephone Counselling with the Counselling Tutor.
I subsequently completed a Level 4 Certificate in Trauma Informed Care with Crossfield Institute and a Level 4 Certificate in Family Work.
I began my private practice in 2022 alongside my work with Novalis Trust. When my time there came to an end in 2024, I was able to devote myself more fully to my private practice.
My interest in trauma, mental health and the science behind how the brain functions also led me to train as a BrainWorking Recursive Therapy (BWRT) practitioner in 2023, under the guidance of T. Watts, MCGI.
Alongside my private practice, I work as a counsellor at Minchinhampton Surgery, providing short-term support, and with Listening Post Stroud, offering short-term sessions for carers.
I have also undertaken specialist training relating to pregnancy loss, baby loss and infertility.
I'm a member of the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS) and abide by its Ethical Framework.
I'm DBS checked and undertake regular continuing professional development (CPD) to keep developing my knowledge and practice.
I believe that being a good therapist means continuing to learn, reflect and develop — not simply completing a qualification and stopping there.
Bruce Perry