Hello,
I'm Carly
BSc Hons, MBACP, GMBPsS
My approach
I am an integrative counsellor registered with the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (MBACP). I am passionate about working with you as a whole person, by integrating your mental, physical, and emotional experiences into our work. I connect science-based interventions with mindfulness techniques to enhance my holistic approach to therapy. This enables me to stay consciously connected with you and empowers you to transform your self-awareness moment to moment.
People work with therapists for a variety of reasons; all of which are unique to the individual. I will personalize therapy to meet your specific needs, whilst working at your pace. We will work collaboratively and creatively with your needs, in a way that is effective for you. I am trained in several approaches to therapy including person-centered, existential, psychodynamic, and cognitive. Here you can find some additional information on the different approaches to therapy.
My philosophy
I believe that all humans have within them a natural capacity for positive change. Sometimes when we are faced with overwhelming stress, we can lose sight of our inner strength. Your therapeutic hour is a dedicated time and space for you to freely process your thoughts and feelings. I believe that the most important part of the therapeutic journey is the relationship between the therapist and the client. My mission is to establish an authentic and meaningful therapeutic relationship with you.
You are the only person who truly knows how you are thinking and feeling. I will be guided by how you understand yourself and the world around you, with a focus on integrity, empathy, and compassion. Whilst I cannot give you advice or tell you what to do, my counselling training allows me to work in a flexible way and tailor therapy to your needs. Together, we will discover your inner resources, find new ways of coping, and explore your relationship with yourself and others. This flexible and personalized approach lends itself to sustainable growth and authentic positive change.
My professional experience
I am a passionate professional with two decades of international experience in uniting communities, building individual capacity, and fostering personal growth across corporate and charity sectors. My career spans roles in luxury retail and health club management to leading youth mentoring programs for under-served communities, driven by a commitment to empowering people through evidence-based practices. Holding a BSc (Hons) in Psychology, I’ve dedicated my work to enabling individuals to make informed decisions, embrace healthy practices, and contribute to better societies.
I am currently working with Self-Horizons affordable counselling services as an Integrative Counsellor. Alongside this work, I offer individual, face to face counselling at my private practice in Hythe. Online counselling services are also available. Please contact me here to make an enquiry.
Qualifications
2024
Level 6 diploma in integrative counselling
Inter-Psyche Training Institute for Counselling & Psychotherapy – NHS and Social Care
2022
Level 3 certificate in counselling skills
Inter-Psyche Training Institute for Counselling & Psychotherapy – NHS and Social Care
2017
BSc (Hons) Psychology
University of Derby
Memberships
Registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP)
Graduate member of the British Psychological Society (GMBPsS)
I adhere to the BACP and BPS ethical frameworks and codes of conduct.
Publications
Cowling, C., & Van Gordon, W. (2021). Mindful parenting: Future directions and challenges. International journal of spa and wellness, 1-21
Cowling, C. & Van Gordon, W. (2018). Effects of a brief online mindfulness Intervention on Mindfulness, Psychological Distress and Parenting Stress in Preschool parents. Mindfulness & Compassion, 3(2), 55-70.