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…
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 find people and their behaviours fascinating and 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. I won’t judge or advise, instead, we’ll gently sift through your thoughts, feelings and experiences moving towards rebuilding and 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 what if it is just what you need…?
A Bit About Me
I offer trauma-informed, integrative counselling to individuals and couples for a wide range of issues in a safe, confidential space in Plymouth including…
Bereavement, grief, loss, anxiety, depression, low self esteem
Pregnancy-related crises (incl loss, infertility, IVF, abortion, TFMR, stillbirth)
Pregnancy support
Family & Parenting issues - for all parents including prospective adopters and adopters/foster/kinship carers
Parents/carers of children with special educational needs and disabilities
My Approach
As an Integrative Counsellor, I’m trained in a number of evidence-based approaches (listed below), which I use creatively to address your specific, personal needs and support you in unlocking your potential. I believe that when a person’s mind, body, heart and soul are well connected, their wellbeing improves so I work with clients to help them listen to their whole self. I support clients to focus on their own needs which can get lost or forgotten, therefore improving confidence and self-esteem, reducing anxiety and managing stress.
Person-Centred
Gestalt
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Transpersonal Therapy
Experience
I have worked in counselling and in Social Care and Education supporting people navigating difficult experiences, grief and complex challenges including those of trauma and attachment.
I am a member of 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 .