Vanessa Black
MA BSc dip Couns MBACP
About us
During my time working as a Psychotherapist I have come to see psychotherapy as much more of an art than a science – a therapist is not a medical provider or a healer, but first and foremost a human being who engages in conversations with other human beings, in an attempt to make their lives better.
Psychotherapy is a collaborative process, and I believe that the quality of the relationship between the client and the counsellor is one of the most important parts of the therapeutic process.
Although I have listed all my qualifications and experience, they will tell you very little about how I actually work, or what it’s like to sit in the room with me. For that, I encourage you to call me, and you’ll get a better sense of whether you want to make the next step and set up an appointment.
In addition to my psychotherapy practice, I lecture and run workshops in the public, private and voluntary sector. I enjoy the challenges and creativity that are necessary when working with groups of people as well as the diverse skills that are important to run a small business. This helps me be more energised and focussed when I am with my clients.
How I work
I am interested in paying particular attention in the way that emotions such as anxiety and depression, get in the way of personal relationships, work or studies. These emotions sometimes can make people feel unhappy or angry and often hopeless and stuck.
Engaging in a meaningful relationship with a qualified psychotherapist will allow you to explore these emotions in a safe and confidential space, the opportunity to understand the different reasons why you might be struggling at the moment, and the tools to support positive change and build resilience.
Experience
I have a background of working in the NHS, voluntary and private sector. I have worked with people experiencing chronic mental health problems and addictions. Currently I am working as a Play Therapist, Child and Adult Therapist for a cancer charity in Manchester, providing support to families affected by a cancer diagnosis.
I describe myself as an Integrative psychotherapist and play therapist, drawing on different approaches such as Psychodynamic ideas, Person Centred Therapy, Cognitive-Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Mindfulness, and Systemic Thinking, as best suit each individual.
Qualifications
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MBCAP Registered Member of the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy
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MA Counselling (Merit) Manchester University
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BSC Psychology & Counselling Salford University
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Postgraduate Certificate in Therapy with Children and Families Brooks Creative Therapy
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Post Graduate Certificate in 3rd Wave CBT
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Certificate in Couples and Relationship Counselling
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Certificate in Essential Supervision Skills
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Compassion Focussed Therapy – Advanced Clinical Skills