Helen Pons
Integrative Counsellor
Training & Qualifications
Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling (CPCAB & BACP approved)
Level 2 & 3 Certificates in Counselling Skills and Studies
BACP Certificate of Proficiency
L3 Awards in Pregnancy Choices & Post Abortion Support
BICA Foundation in Infertility Support
I undertake regular CPD to deepen my skills and understanding:
Attachment & Shame, Trauma-Informed Counselling, ADHD & Relationships, Birth Trauma, Eating Disorders, Grief & Loss, Psychopathology, How Trauma Affects the Body, Games in Relationships, Neurodivergence in Counselling, Trauma Awareness & Nervous System Regulation for Therapeutic Practice…
I have an enhanced DBS, full insurance, and am registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) for GDPR and Data Protection.
Why I Do This Work
I like people (!) and am fascinated by why we do what we do. My counselling training with Astranti Connect (formerly Devon & Cornwall Counselling Hub) has deepened this interest adding understanding of what shapes us, and how we can move forward through pain, difficulty or loss to achieve improved wellbeing and connection.
Life can be so hard and admitting this can be the first step towards healing. We will gently sift through your thoughts, feelings and experiences, sometimes unearthing things which you may have forgotten or which seemed unimportant, but which when identified and brought into the open, mean you can find release moving towards restoration.
A Little Personal Note
When I’m not counselling, I love being outdoors - walking the coast or moors with my dog, gardening, reading, or spending time with family and friends. Nature helps me restore balance and wellbeing - something I hope to help you find in your own way, too.
Ready to Talk?
If you’d like to explore whether counselling with Trust Counselling South West is right for you, I offer a reduced price, no-obligation initial consultation. I recognise it can be daunting to ask for help and support but it can be far harder to walk alone. I am here for you.
A Bit About Me
I offer trauma-informed, integrative counselling in Plymouth for…
Bereavement, grief, loss
Anxiety, depression, low self esteem
Pregnancy-related crises (incl loss, infertility, IVF, abortion, TFMR, stillbirth)
Pregnancy support
Family & Parenting - for all parents including prospective adopters & adopters/foster/kinship carers
My Approach
I’m trained in several evidence-based approaches (Person Centred, Gestalt, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Transpersonal). I work creatively using things like sand tray, cards, artwork, metaphor, visualisation etc which can really help when words are hard to find. My role is not to advise or direct, as you know yourself best and hold all your own answers already. I support you to find your answers, empowering you to move forward.
My belief is that our overall wellbeing improves when our mind, body, heart and soul are well connected so I help you to listen to your whole self and to focus on your own needs which sometimes can get lost or forgotten. Counselling can reduce anxiety, help you to better manage stress, improve confidence and self-esteem and lead to you finding your best way forward.
Experience
Having worked in the private and public sector, social care education and in a charity, I am experienced in supporting people navigating difficult life experiences, traumatic events, (historic and current), bereavement, grief, loss and many other challenges.
I am a member of Trauma Informed Network, Adoption UK, familiar with the National Therapeutic Parenting Network and the PACE approach (Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity, Empathy) which helps build emotional safety and connection in relationships.
As a veteran partner I understand military family life and offer empathic understanding of the challenges and isolation this can involve .