Hello,
I'm Carly
BSc Hons, MBACP, GMBPsS
My approach
I am a neuro-affirmative integrative counsellor registered with the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (BACP). I am passionate about the body-mind connection, and I am committed to embracing the diversity in our individual experiences. I use an embodied approach to trauma, which means I work with the body to deepen healing, connect the body with the mind and increase self-awareness. Together, we will re-discover your inner wisdom, understand your personal experience and connect these with evidence-based counselling interventions and mindfulness techniques to enhance your self-awareness and your relationship with yourself.
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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 and I will work at your pace. I am trained in several approaches to therapy including relational, 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 and wisdom. Your counselling sessions are a private space for you to freely process your thoughts and feelings without judgement. My mission is to share a space in which you feel comfortable to explore and express your personal experiences.
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, I can work flexibly and creatively to tailor therapy to your unique needs. Together, we will discover your inner resources, find new ways of coping, and explore your relationship with yourself and others. This personalized approach lends itself to sustainable growth and meaningful 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, providing restorative support to young people who have experienced childhood trauma, abuse, and mental health challenges. I am committed to empowering people through evidence-based practices. Holding a BSc (Hons) in Psychology, I’ve dedicated my work to empowering individuals to make informed decisions, explore healthy practices, and contribute to healthier societies.
I work with Self-Horizons affordable counselling services as an Integrative Counsellor.
I offer individual, in-person counselling at my private practice in Hythe, Kent
I offer online sessions via Zoom, working both nationally and internationally
Please get in touch to make an enquiry.
Qualifications
Level 4, 5 and 6 diploma in integrative counselling
Inter-Psyche Training Institute for Counselling & Psychotherapy – NHS and Social Care
Level 3 certificate in counselling skills
Inter-Psyche Training Institute for Counselling & Psychotherapy – NHS and Social Care
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 & continuing professional development
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.
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Online Counselling: Getting started. Developed by The Open University (OU), in partnership with the Counselling and Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body (CPCAB). Aligned with the BACP online and phone therapy competency framework.
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An introduction to Autism & ADHD: Neuro-affirming language, theory, voices and practice. 1-day course with Long Valley Therapy Training