Jackie Parkes - Accredited Counsellor in Birmingham
I am a qualified, professional and highly experienced Counsellor. I have in depth understanding of human problems, and am passionate about my work. I qualified as a Humanistic Counsellor in 1999 when I was awarded a Diploma validated by Warwick University.I have been working full time as a counsellor since then. I have also been influenced by the Psychodynamic and Jungian approaches. I undertake ongoing professional development.
Originally from Bristol I came to the Midlands many years ago to study Social Science and Social Work. I have prior experience of community work and management in the voluntary sector.
I have a warm and approachable style. I offer a considered and reflective environment.
I believe in the capacity of people to change, and am passionate about the potential of therapy to help you find more compassionate ways to relate to yourself, and others and to live a richer life. I have always had a great interest in people.
I practice as a Counsellor with couples and individuals from two locations in Birmingham both accessible by public transport.
In addition to training and experience, I have experience of working on my own issues as a client. I consider this as an essential part of what I can offer you as a Therapist.
My approach is tailored to your needs. I do not diagnose but recognise that an understanding of your problems will be unique to you.
I undertake longer term counselling as well more short term focused work.
Most of my work is in private practice, people self refer and I undertake Employee Assistance Counselling. I am also an affiliate counsellor for Workplace Options, Help EAP. Mind Matters, Right Management, Validium and Health Assured. Part of My EAP work has involved working in-house for a hospital within their Occupational Health Department. I have worked at GP surgeries in different parts of Birmingham (Smethwick and Northfield) and had a contract with the Local Authority counselling young people. I have prior experience of management and community work in the voluntary sector.
Counselling is underpinned by a theoretical framework, If you are looking for counselling which is not limited to one school of counselling then my way of working may suit you. From my degree and management days I recognised that it was important to take an overview and I recognise that different approaches all have something to offer. I have studied in some depth the different counselling frameworks and looked at how theory can be applied in practice. I have been influenced by the Humanistic, Psychodynamic and Jungian Approaches to Counselling. I also use skills from the cognitive Behavioural Approach and Transactional Analysis (Parent, Child, Adult) I have integrated these approaches into my practice enabling me to respond with appropriate skills and depth to your individual needs.
Counselling can be a very courageous journey, sometimes painful and scary but ultimately a rewarding journey. For me I find counselling a very enjoyable and valuable occupation. I feel fortunate to have shared in the lives of so many of my clients.