Zahida Abbas

I am an experienced and accredited Psychotherapist/Counsellor. I can offer Employee Assistance Programme to corporate organisations. I have an MA in Counselling studies, a PG Cert in Supervision and am a Suicide Prevention Trainer. I have worked in corporate, clinical, private and voluntary sector organisations. When 'life happens' - and it does happen to us all at some point in our lives - that is the time when we look for understanding, meaning and compassion. In other words, we look for humanity. I offer to be there when 'life happens' to you. When you look for 'Solace', you will find' humanity'. I promise to be there for you without judgment to HEAR you - not just LISTEN to you! I have over twelve years' experience of counselling and treating clients presenting with a range of complex psycho social issues in community, clinical and private settings. I have vast amount of experience working as a Clinical lead, Safeguarding Lead, Head of Psychological Services, Clinical services Manager and am able to bring this experience and working knowledge to my private practice. I have worked with complex needs and clients with co morbidity issues and supervise/mentor trainee therapists on placement. I am experienced in case evaluations, Psychological profiles and treatment plans for clients with a range of complex issues.  I am experienced in using a range of therapeutic approaches that allow me to positively impact on the difficult and stressful issues discussed within my safe and confidential counselling room.  My skills, expertise and knowledge focus on the promotion of health and wellbeing of my client whilst my compassion, vision and relentless enthusiasm focuses on their emotional and spiritual journey through the counselling process providing a truly holistic experience. .

My private practice is well located within 2 minutes of motorway access and excellent public transport links.  I offer wheel chair access and private parking .  I offer comfortable surroundings to enhance the therapeutic process along with a range of herbal teas. I offer a free 20 minute initial phone consultation before booking, to help you assess if the service feels right for you. Other therapies offered include Oncology support and Alternative/Complimentary therapies

I ensure client feels comfortable and their needs are met.  I have a duty of care to discuss and explore confidentiality, contracting and how sessions will be delivered taking into account clients' needs.  Sessions are a 2 way process, so please feel free to share your concerns with me initially so we can get it right from the start.  A copy of the Ethical Principles on which the practice is built, can be shared with the client if they so wish.  My aim is to make the session as comfortable as possible for the client so that we can explore presentations with the best possible outcome for us both.

I have been working within the field of mental health since 2002 and have varied experience with children, adolescents and adults. I have experience of working with people from a diverse range of backgrounds and have worked within the NHS, statutory organisations, the corporate world and the voluntary sector. This experience has enabled me to bring a wealth of knowledge and skills to my supervision practice. My approach to supervision is integrative, and focuses on the multiple levels of the client’s experience and the therapeutic relationship.I offer supervision of broad psychotherapies using a “seven-eyed supervisor” approach. I believe in the process of reflection and actively encourage my supervisees in partake in this process for a deeper and meaningful understanding to their presenting issue/s. My supervisory work largely focuses on the therapeutic relationship and dynamic processes occurring between the Supervisor and Supervisee.

Current research and practice evidence suggests that effective supervisors are those who have the required clinical and expert knowledge to assist supervisees in their work, provide emotional support and who have the qualities to develop positive working relationships.  I bring a wealth of knowledge and skills to my clinical supervision practice whilst maintaining a positive attitude towards my supervisees through the provision of empathy and compassion.  I am flexible in my approach and believe we can learn from each other as every supervision experience can teach us something new.  My supervision aims to provide accountability for both myself  and my supervisee exploring practice and performance.  I offer the following 5 key aspects within my clinical supervision practice in order to develop learning and inform practice:-

Clarity.

Empathy.

Courage.

Attention.

Persistence.

I can offer clinical supervision remotely via Zoom/skype as well as face to face.

I currently work with Universities and Clinical organisations to offer Clinical Supervision to employees as well trainee therapists.

I have a private clinic within easy access to the motorway and public transport as well as car parking available to my clients.  The clinic is wheel chair accessible.   I am flexible with my time and can offer meetings evening/weekends as well as during normal working hours.  My clinic is comfortable and inviting and there is always a range of drink options available!

First and subsequent sessions are agreed in terms of date, time and length of session (1hr or 1.5hrs).  Payment terms and price is agreed and set.  Clinical contract is read,  agreed and signed  with clarification where required.  Supervisee  provides an overview of their clinical background  and offers a way forward in how they perceive their clinical supervision to be delivered.  We mutually agree according to ethical practice and organisational requirements.  Note taking, recordings etc are discussed as well as how the supervisee will present/bring  their client work to sessions.  Risk and safeguarding is discussed and protocols agreed mutually.

Clinical supervision can begin in a relaxed and informed setting.