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About Me

​My name is Gemma Collins, and I'm a counsellor here to help people reconnect with their true selves.

Perhaps, like me, you have a mixed heritage or feel disconnected from a part of your identity. Maybe you've experienced a difficult life change and are unsure who you are anymore.
 

My Story

I understand these feelings. I come from a beautiful blend of English and Barbadian heritage. We were close to our family in Barbados, but life took its course, and I slowly drifted away from that part of myself. I straightened my hair, worried about judgment, and unconsciously tried to fit in.
 

Then, a period of personal struggle led me to a time of reflection. It was during this time that I discovered counselling and began my own journey of rediscovering who I truly am.
 

Your Journey

Your journey may look different, but the desire to feel whole and connected is a universal one.

Together, we can create a safe space for you to explore your true self, build healthy relationships, and overcome internal conflicts. In our sessions, I can help you gain clarity and awareness, so you can live a life that feels true to you.

​

Sandstone

Frequently Asked Questions 


What jobs or careers have you had besides being a therapist?
I work part-time at Sefton CVS as a Community Development Inclusion Officer in The Diverse Ethnic Background Service. I am also the Chair of The Equal Voice Network, empowering and championing change for Sefton’s diverse community through the voices of our members.

What non-professional experiences have you had to qualify for the work you are doing?
I am the co-founder of SACHA - Southport African Caribbean Heritage Association. This has helped me to develop good listening skills. I have also engaged in advocacy by referring members to Sefton CVS. I have developed excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Given my mixed heritage, I am able to offer compassion and a deeper understanding of members' issues and barriers.

What was your training? What qualifications have you been awarded?
    • I complete level 2, 3 and  Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling at Southport College.
    • Introduction to Mabadiliko Intercultural Therapy Certificate 
    • Safeguarding Adults 
    • Child Protection  
    • Racial Cultural; Awareness Training 
    • Prevent Training  
    • Mental Health First Aid 
    • Make every contact count training (MECC) 
    • Hate Crime Awareness training  
    • Dementia Friends session 
    • Data Security Awareness
    • Debt and Mental Health 
    • Crisis Tools for Young people
  • Domestic abuse, Post separation abuse, children and domestic abuse  
And many more I AM CONSTANTLY LEARNING!

Are you a member of any professional organisations? 
I am an Registered member of the BACP - British Association for Counsellors and Psychotherapists. "The BACP Register is a public record of counsellors and psychotherapists who meet or exceed our recommended minimum quality standards. These standards cover training, supervision, continuing professional development and a contractual commitment to our Ethical Framework."bacp.co.uk

Have you treated other people with problems similar to mine? 
I have worked with a variety of presenting issues such as Work Related Issues, Stress, Childhood Related Issues, Self Harm, Depression, Relationship / Family Difficulties, Bullying, Eating Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD),Abuse, and Low Self Esteem, Racism. 

How do you determine how often we should meet?
I recommend that you have 1 session per week. We work in blocks of 6 sessions, but you are not limited to the number of sessions. We will work together and review progress regularly to establish your need. 

Can you prescribe psychoactive medications if I need them? 
No I cannot prescribe medications

Are you willing to consult with other mental health or medical professionals with whom I have worked?
With your permission I can consult with other mental health professions, this would be after I have discussed this in Supervision to ensure that there is no conflict to the ethical framework and that it is for the benefit of you, my client. 

Do you consult with other professionals regarding individuals on your caseload?
I have an ethical duty to have Supervision.  This is to ensure that I am practising ethically and to the benefit of you my client and myself. To ensure I am working safely and to gain guidance and greater understanding of your presenting issue

How do you safeguard my right to confidentiality in those situations?
The content of the sessions between us will remain confidential, however there are certain  limitations to that confidentiality. If you refer to any involvement or knowledge of:- 
• Acts of terrorism 
• Child protection issues 
• Drug trafficking (not personal use)
• Money laundering 
• Serious harm to self or others 
Any mention of the above would necessitate a breach in confidentiality between us and I  would have to act upon this and inform the relevant authorities. 

How do you describe your professional orientation to therapy?
Person Centered Counselling adheres to the belief that you are the best expert on yourself, it  is not driven by advice from me, the sessions will concentrate on you and we will work  together to explore your issues and difficulties using the core concepts of empathy,  congruence and unconditional positive regard. 

What is your fee?
Sessions are £40 per up to 1 hour session.

Are you able to accept medical insurance?
If your health or medical insurance provides cover for counselling, I can issue you with a receipt of your payment to claim back this against your insurance. 

How do you handle the paperwork?
I will store all your information securely and password protect the documents. I am the only person who has access to this. I am registered with ICO Information and Commissioner's Office:
Registration reference: ZB574799.

Do you or I have to fill out the paperwork?
You will just need to sign the working agreement at the first session. This will be fully explained during the initial assessment. 

What is your telephone availability?
I do not operate a service for in between sessions at this time. I do offer counselling sessions by telephone which can be pre-booked through the website or you can get in touch.
 
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