Orla Gardam

I am BACP Senior Accredited and have over 25 years experience working in the field of counselling and psychotherapy. I use an eclectic approach in my practice, this means I can adapt my skills to the needs of individual clients rather than the client having to adapt and fit into my approach. I offer a reduced fee to student counsellors. I work with both brief solution focused therapeutic approaches and open ended long term basis. I have extensive experience working with addictions using the 12 step model alongside more traditional approaches to counselling. 

 I also have experience of working with clients with a variety of issues including; • relationship issues • stress • low self-esteem • depression •anxiety • panic attacks • self confidence • self-harm • anger • bereavement • work related issues I believe that my clients have the answers to ease whatever anxiety or chaos they may be experiencing. Using the counselling time to explore issues in a non threatening 'safe' environment can give clients the opportunity to explore feelings and fears. 

 I hope to offer a supportive environment that empowers the client to look at 'how' they are living their life and reflect on whether this is what they want or, what they think they should be doing. Daytime and Evening appointments available

I am a BACP Senior Accredited Supervisor of Individuals

I have been supervising Counsellors and Psychotherapists for over 20 years in a variety of settings throughout my career including a Drug and Alcohol Rehab Unit, within the NHS and in Private Practice.

I have a British Psychological Society approved Certificate in Clinical Supervision, SDS Accreditation in Clinical Supervision Level 2 (Assessed Academic Competence) SDS Accreditation in Clinical Supervision Level 3 (Advanced) with Assessed Academic and Clinical Competence.

For 6 years I was Clinical Supervisor for students on CPCAB L4 Diploma in Counselling as well as part of the tutor team.

I offer Clinical Supervision for individuals and small groups.

I bring a flexible and understanding approach to my supervisory relationships offering a relaxed and supportive environment for Counsellors and Psychotherapists to explore the work they are doing with their clients. I am committed to supporting your ongoing development and learning as a practitioner.

I use Proctor's three-function interactive model as the core approach to my Supervision work. The Normative, Formative and Restorative (management, learning and support) elements of this model ensure that each supervision session meets your specific needs. I also use The Seven Eyed Supervision Model which helps give a holistic focus on the therapeutic relationship and therapy work.

Supervisor Collaboration

The importance of Supervision for our counselling work is a concept that is understood ethically and also to ensure the Normative, Formative and Restorative needs we have are being met.

The Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions tells us the following as part of the Supervision section.

62. Supervision requires additional skills and knowledge to those used for providing services directly to clients. Therefore supervisors require adequate levels of expertise acquired through training and/or experience. Supervisors will also ensure that they work with appropriate professional support and their own supervision.

My practice offers dedicated space for supervisors to bring their supervision work for Collaboration to ensure continued professional and personal development.Wokingham Supervision Individual and Groups

1 hour - £65

1.5hour - £75