This is my first blog. Not sure that I had ever imagined myself writing those words! But, as it is my first blog, I thought this it would be a good time to share how I became a counsellor.
I started my professional life as a nurse, training as an SRN (State Registered Nurse) which had changed (in a very short time) to RN (Registered Nurse) when I qualified. There has always been two main things in life that I have enjoyed, being with people and learning. So after a period of time as a Registered Nurse, I started to look around and see what else I could learn, as long as it involved people and caring.
I found midwifery. I loved it. Being with a couple (whatever the parental combination) was such a privilege and a joy. Don’t get me wrong, it wasn’t always plain sailing, there were some incredibly tough times and times when a couple invited me to sit and cry with them. It was emotionally very difficult - but it was still an honour, to be invited to share some of the deepest emotional times we will experience in our lives.
As time went by and I grew personally and professionally, I came to understand that all women (and men) have a voice. Well, yes, they have a voice but their voice is not always heard, however I also realsed that this was something which I felt (and feel) very strongly about. I wanted to be able to help them find their voice and if they wanted, be their voice.
And that’s just what I did.
My role changed to “Specialist Midwife for Antenatal and Postnatal Mental Health”. Bit of a mouthful, but to those under my care, I was Katie. A woman who would be in their corner and support their needs and choices. I soon learned that, if I trained to be a Therapeutic Counsellor, I could support couples in the way that they needed.
So that’s where I find my self now, a Therapeutic Counsellor, I’ve completed some extra training in Infant Loss, Bereavement and Female Sexual Trauma and Coercion. But still finding out more! At the moment I’m doing a Diploma in Eating Disorders. I work with Cruse Bereavement Care and with East Kent Rape Crisis Centre as a
Volunteer Counsellor, along side seeing clients on a private basis. Am I still a midwife? Yes, I return to the hospital to spend time with parents for de-briefing (exploring their birth experiences) and with those who are scared of childbirth.
So I am doing my favourite things?, I am with people and I am always learning. If you feel that I can help , please do get in touch, we can meet and see if my way of working suits you.
Look forward to hearing from you,
Take Care
Katie
“Be you to the full”
MBACP, The Foundation for Infant Loss