Jonathan Polverino
Hi , I’m Jon and I am volunteering as a person centered counsellor with Parental minds. I am in my second and final year of counsellor training with Exeter College.
Primarily I work face to face but am happy to see individuals online or over the telephone. I am registered with the NCS.
I am based near Honiton, but I am able to see clients in Exeter as well.
Evenings are best for me but I can also offer Friday afternoons.
I feel very privileged to be part of Parental minds and offer Person centered Counselling within the community.
Kate Haskell
I am very excited to be a part of Parental Minds. I have my own private counselling practice in Exeter but also enjoy being part of something as inspiring as Parental Minds Counselling. Talking with potential clients and seeing how best we can support them is very rewarding.
I have always lived in Devon and count myself very fortunate to be able to live here with my family and do a job I love.
Anne-Marie Lorenzo
Hi, I’m Anne-Marie and I have been volunteering as a person-centred counsellor for Parental Minds since May 2022. I am a fully-accredited registrant with the National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society (NCPS).
I see my job as helping you to “unpack” and explore your past, present and, possibly, your future. I offer a safe and supportive environment where my clients feel comfortable exploring their thoughts and feelings, and where they can develop the skills and tools they need to thrive.
You will find me warm, welcoming, curious, non-judgmental and compassionate. I don’t bombard my clients with questions – a silent moment or two can be quite illuminating.
I have one teenage daughter and a very fluffy husky/chow cross, Ted.
In our spare time, Ted and I volunteer for Pets As Therapy and currently visit a primary school and Exeter University on a weekly basis. I am hoping to incorporate Ted in my practice and offer canine-assisted therapy, and also have hopes to employ some guinea pigs too.
I have lived in many countries including Australia, Canada and Germany and spent 6 years at boarding school. I am Exeter-based but can, and do, travel to see clients.
Kristy Bale
Hi I’m Kristy.
I have almost 20 years of experience working with children and their families/carers, as a Nursery Nurse, Private Nanny and within the Devon Safeguarding Children Board.
Supporting families has always been a passion of mine so moving from Childcare into Counselling was completely natural for me; my existing listening skills and self-awareness have been enhanced to a much deeper, supportive, holistic level which I can share with others.
I am honoured to be part of Parental Minds and to have the opportunity to offer Person Centred Counselling within the community.
In my spare time my little boys keep me very busy and as a family we love being together, especially getting messy (inside and outside.)
I love dancing, yoga, baking cakes and spending time with those who mean the most to me.
Amelia Tucker Mear
Hi, I’m Amelia and I’m excited to be working with Parental Minds. I’m nearing the end of studying for my course in Integrated Counselling. Integrated means that, although the core of how I practice is “Person Centred”, meaning deeply listening and understanding, I also might bring in techniques from other counselling methods, according to what works best for you.
I grew up in Devon and, after some years living elsewhere, moved back to raise my kids in the county that has my heart! I love being outdoors, and my other great love is music.
I enjoy working face to face, but I can also work over the phone or online.
Charlotte Dinnis
Having heard first hand of the amazing work Parental Minds do, I am delighted to have been working with Parental Minds on Placement since November 2022.
I am a member of the BACP and ensure I work to their requirements and ethics. I have completed my Level 2 & 3 Counselling Qualifications and am in my final year of the Integrative Counselling Advanced Diploma and Counselling Young People with Iron Mill College.
As well as this I have taken further studies in Eating Disorders, Suicide, Anxiety, Grief and Anger.
Having required counselling myself, I understand how daunting asking for help or support can be. My aim is to be there to support you and provide a safe space throughout your journey wherever our sessions may lead. I take an integrative approach, which means I am able to adapt to each client to use the best methodology for the person and situation, rather than sticking to one Psychological principle. We are all unique so I believe that being able to offer a flexible approach to counselling is key to being able to offer the most beneficial counselling experience.
Claire Perrott
Hello, I’m Claire.
I’m a qualified counsellor. I volunteered at Parental Minds during my training and when I qualified I decided to stay on as a volunteer at Parental Minds because I feel aligned with the values promoted by the charity, I love the work and seeing results first hand. I have worked within the NHS for over 20 years and have witnessed a lot of changes during this time.
I run my own counselling business alongside this working in private practice with adults and young people (11-17). I work face to face, via Zoom and over the phone.
Check out my website for more information: claireperrottcounselling.co.uk
Rachel Tanner
Hi, I am Rachel Tanner, I am in advanced counselling training and a student member of NCPS.
Life does not always go quite to plan and I think that being a counsellor, a non-judgemental ear, to hear your story is going to be a huge privilege, as I have first hand experience of the life changing impact that Counselling has had for myself and my family.
I hope being alongside you for a short or longer period of time can make things just a little easier, provide a platform for exploration and curiosity to empower you to create the life that you would like. I am very much looking forward to hearing your story and supporting you on your therapeutic journey.
Fiona Rickson
I’m Fiona, a trainee integrative counsellor. I’m passionate about supporting families in the community and delighted to be part of Parental Minds. I am a student member of the BACP training at Iron Mill College and heading towards my final year. I chose to train as an integrative counsellor because it allows me to adapt my counselling approach to suit the individual I am working with so they can get the most out of counselling. I am warm, empathetic, compassionate and accepting. I aim to create safe and non-judgemental space where we can work at your pace. I have done additional training in Neurodiversity and Inclusion, Anxiety, Pilates and an introduction to Arts therapy.
When I am not working, I like to walk, draw, doodle and paint and spend time with family and friends. I use mindfulness, Pilates and breathwork as part of my day to day routine.
As a former teacher and parent of three adult children I understand the challenges many families face. My aim is for every person I work with the feel heard, valued and empowered whatever they may be facing.
Gareth Osment
Hi, my name is Gareth and I am in my final year of a Level 5 Advanced Professional Diploma in Counselling Theory and Therapeutic Practice at Exeter College. I am a member of NCPS and I work to their ethical framework. My approach is person-centred at its heart, and I believe that incorporating aspects from different approaches – tailored to the individual – can support a person to make sense of their feelings, emotions and behaviours, leading to a better understanding of themselves and their relationships.
I understand how daunting it can feel to reach out for support and realise the importance of a safe, confidential space to explore the issues bringing a person to counselling. I wholeheartedly believe in the value of a therapeutic relationship built on empathy and compassion.
During challenging times in my life I have benefitted from personal therapy and the impact has been powerful and life changing.
I live with my partner in Exeter. I co-parent my two daughters, and we enjoy getting outdoors together playing sport, exploring and swimming. I love to read and learn about counselling and therapy generally and I am developing my meditation practice.
Gerry McVey
Hi, my name is Gerry, I am a Qualified Counsellor (since 1998) Clinical Supervisor (since 2000) . I am currently studying at Ironmill College in Exeter on a postgraduate BA honours degree in Integrative Counselling (accredited by Worcester University). I am a BACP member, working within their code of ethics.
I have worked for big organisations including NSPCC and National Autistic Society as a Children’s Counsellor.
I have 5 grown-up children and 2 grandchildren we are all neurodiverse with a variety of other disabilities.
I am a campaigner for Disability rights and Access for All.
I have lived experience of being a young Disabled parent raising children on the ASD.
I have been an animal therapist and I love to work creatively to help people tell their story.
In my spare time I love going to live music gigs and festivals.
I am honoured to be part of Parental Minds offering Person Centred Counselling.
Georgina Deverell
I’m embarking on my final year of training as a counsellor at Exeter on the Advanced Professional Diploma, having already completed Levels 2 & 3.
I’ve been working in supportive and caring roles for more than ten years, including running my own business as a Life Scribe, and encouraging older people in exploring their stories and experience.
I’m a mum of three and have over twenty year’s experience of dealing with children and their changing and evolving challenges and issues; not only my own kids, but their friends and the children of my friends too. The process of accompanying others through difficulties, and of having therapy myself has served as an invaluable backbone from which to begin my counselling journey.
I’m so excited to be joining such an amazing service as Parental Minds, which provides much needed support for those caring for young people in all their diversity and complexity.
I love spending time outdoors with my youngest daughter as well as doing yoga, listening to music, reading, writing poetry and dancing in my kitchen!
Giselle Michel
Hi, I’m Giselle, a student counsellor and member of the National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society (NCPS) in my final year of my Level 5 Diploma in Counselling at Exeter College.
I work from a Humanistic Integrative approach, with a focus on Person-Centred therapy. This means I offer a compassionate, non-judgemental space where clients are supported to explore their experiences and reconnect with their inner strength. I’m here to walk alongside you at your pace. Creativity is also an important part of who I am, which could be integrated into the work if it felt right.
I can work over Zoom or on the phone or face to face appointments in Exeter or Honiton.
My own experiences as well as working with teenagers and young adults in both teaching and learning support roles have led me to do my placement with Parental Minds. After being very involved in supporting and caring for my younger siblings, it shaped my deep empathy for parents and carers who are doing their best, often while feeling isolated or unsure. I am passionate about helping people feel empowered, seen, heard, and reminded that they are enough.
Graham Bailey
Hi, I’m Graham (or Bails being my more popular name!), and I am currently studying towards qualification as an Integrative Counsellor with Heartwood. I am also a Teacher and Houseparent, and have taught Biology for over 25 years, with a degree in Applied and Human Biology. As a Human Biologist, I have a deep interest in neuroscience and brain physiology, and from this I have developed a much deeper appreciation of the biology of mental health issues. I have many years’ experience working with children of all different ages and staff and colleagues, helping with their mental health journeys. The key for me is human connection, and I am keen to help people understand the importance of this.
I am fascinated with how an integrative approach (using different counselling techniques) can be incredibly powerful, and aim to help clients understand which approach they prefer, using this with them on their journey. I am a member of the NCPS (National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society) and work in line with their ethical framework. I am very happy to work face-to-face or online, daytime, evening or weekends.
I am married with two children (14 and 11), and our two dogs – Maggie the beagle and Poppy the cocker – play a huge roll in our lives! Hobbies involve being active (preferably outside) and reading deeply into the fascinating world of counselling and therapy. I also study and practise breathing techniques and mindfulness.
Jade Howe
Hello! I’m Jade. I’m a Trainee Psychotherapist and I’ve been working in this field for over ten years. I gained a lot of my experience working as an Independent Mental Health Advocate, meaning I know the mental health system and all of its challenges. I also supported many parents in this work, as well as young people experiencing distress.
I love being a therapist. I will be alongside you, as you explore yourself and your reasons for arriving into therapy. I’m warm and curious, and through working with me; it is possible to live your life with more ease, comfort and choice.
Rebecca Colwill
Hi, I am Rebecca and I am a qualified Level 4 Integrative Counsellor as well as currently studying Level 5 counselling for children and young people.
I am currently volunteering with Parental Minds after almost twenty years working as a teacher in primary and early secondary schools.
I am a member of the NCPS (National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society) and work in line with their ethical framework.
Having experienced the value of counselling myself, I know how daunting it can be to take the first step to seek support. My approach is to listen with compassion and in a non-judgemental way, helping you to understand what is on your mind right now, exploring feelings on a deeper level and offering empathic support in challenging times. Together, we can talk openly and honestly and discover your path to meaningful change.
I would love to work face-to-face or online with clients, offering a safe space where you can feel confident and supported.
Louise Buckingham
Hi, I am Louise, a trainee integrative counsellor studying a Level 4 counselling course. I specialise in Gestalt, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and person-centred approaches. I am also progressing in my certification as a Narcissistic Abuse Treatment Clinician (NATC) designed by Dr. Ramani, focusing on supporting those recovering from narcissistic abuse.
As the founder of Narcology, Pride, I have established a supportive network for individuals affected by narcissistic relationships, offering resources and empowerment for those on the path to recovery. As a single mum, I bring a deep understanding of the complexities of family life to my practice, providing invaluable empathy for the challenges faced by families and single parents.
My approach to therapy is tailored and empathetic. I focus on each client’s needs and utilise evidence-based practices to ensure a therapeutic environment that fosters healing, growth, and well-being, including the option of ‘walk and talk’ sessions.
Megan Benham
Hello, I’m Megan and I’m a student counsellor from Iron Mill College in Exeter.
I’ve completed the taught element of an Advanced Diploma in Integrative Counselling and am now on placement, volunteering with Parental Minds.
I’m a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy.
I love to work in a face-to-face setting with clients.
My approach is rooted in compassion and non-judgement, and I endeavour to cultivate an environment where the client feels valued and understood. This way, we can work through whatever is going on for them collaboratively and spark meaningful change.
Sarah Clarke
Hi, I’m Sarah and I’m really happy to be on placement at Parental Minds for the final year of my Advanced Diploma in Counselling with Exeter College.
I am training to be a Person-Centred Counsellor, which means I offer a non-judgmental, supportive and compassionate listening approach, working with you so that you feel truly listened to and understood.
In my spare time I love being with my young children and running in the countryside around Exeter.
Siân Lewis Bending
Hi, I’m Siân and I’m currently completing my Level 4 Advanced Diploma in Integrated Counselling and very much looking forward to beginning my placement with Parental Minds.
At the heart of my work is the relationship between myself and my client. I use a range of counselling approaches to tailor each session to your individual needs, creating a collaborative, supportive space where you feel heard and understood.
With 19 years of experience as a teacher and as a parent to three children, I bring a deep understanding of the challenges faced by families, children, and young people.
I’m a member of the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS) and work within their ethical framework. My sessions are available face to face or via Zoom.
Lynn Vatter
Hi, I’m Lynn and I am delighted to be part of the Parental Minds team.
I am an experienced Integrative Therapeutic Counsellor and Creative Supervisor. I am a registered member of The National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society and always work within their professional code of ethics.
I have been working in Health and Wellbeing for nearly 30 years, working alongside and supporting Families, Adults, Children and Young People.
My roles have included working as a Family Support Worker, SEN School Governor and Special Needs Educator, Public Health Trainer, Sexual Health Advisor (NHS), School Counsellor, University Student Counsellor and I also have a Private Counselling Practice in Honiton.
I have a passion for working creatively which offers and provides an alternative channel for communication, emotional and self- expression, which in turn can significantly enhance well-being, self-assurance and connection in our inner world.I have both lived and professional experience in working alongside Neurodiversity and in all of my practice I aim to create and hold a safe and inclusive space for clients to be able to understand, explore, support and nurture their experiences and their world as seen through their lens.
Outside of work I am a Mum of 4.. now adult children, a Nanny to 2 amazing boys (both Autistic). I have a lovely four legged friend called Oreo, and so walking/exploring is a big part of my life. I also play Tennis and Sea Swim which keeps me active.