Qualifications
Helen Donovan MBACP (Accred)
- Post Graduate Diploma in Supervision - The Minster Centre - 2022
- Advanced Masters Programme on the Treatment of Trauma - NICABM - 2021
- Sensorimotor Psychotherapy - Level 1 - Sensorimotor Institute 2021
- CBT for Therapists trained in another modality – Wimbledon Guild 2013
- Diploma in Integrative Counselling – Lambeth College 2009-2011
- Psychology of mental health – 2008 – City Lit
- Certificate in Counselling skills – 2006 – Lambeth College
- Introduction to Counselling – 2005 – Coombe CETS Centre
Experience
I am an integratively trained counsellor, which means that I use a mix of therapeutic styles based on each client I see. I have a strong background in psychodynamic work, meaning, if relevant, we can look at past experiences and see how they are having an impact on you today. I also use strong influences from humanistic and relational psychotherapy. This essentially means that I believe that the relationship between client and therapist is at the heart of the work and I feel if we can work well together this can help your relationships outside of the room. I hope that through this process together, you will be able to benefit from the empathy, warmth and respect you receive and be able to identify a stronger self as well as gain insight that helps you feel more balanced and empowered.
I have extensive experience supporting clients affected by trauma, anxiety, loss, illness and emotionally overwhelming life events. My work is trauma-informed, meaning I place a strong emphasis on safety, trust, collaboration and working at a pace that feels managable for each individual. Alongside talking therapy, I am trained in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy; an approach that recognises how trauma and stress can impact both mind and the body. This enables me to support clients not only in understanding their experiences emotionally, but also in developing greater nervous system regulation, grounding and resilience.
My 16 years' of experience spans working with clients both long and short-term in various settings such as counselling agencies, schools and the NHS.
I also worked for five years in mental health services. During that time I trained others to work with people experiencing mental health issues and particularly those who were suicidal.
I have worked for the past 7 years for an EAP; the first 5 years as a Case Manager managing risk, and complex cases. The past two years my role has been part of the clinical governance team writing and delivering training for all clinicans, 1-1 and group supervision. I also am responsible for highlighting how the business can be more trauma informed and championing that project forward.
I have worked with teenagers coping with their mental health. Providing them with on-line support as well as training volunteers to work with them.
Prior to working in mental health, I worked in the film and media industry. Creative imagery can sometimes be used in my work as a helpful tool to unlock thoughts, feelings and ideas.
Accreditation
I am accredited by the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (BACP) and adhere to its ethical framework. I maintain my counselling standards by regularly completing continual professional development (CPD) and report to a BACP accredited supervisor for support and guidance.
