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 continue to deepen my skills through regular CPD, including:

Attachment & Shame, Trauma-Informed Counselling, ADHD & Relationships, Birth Trauma, Eating Disorders, Grief & Loss, Psychopathology, How Trauma Affects the Body, Games in Relationships, and more.

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

My counselling training with Astranti Connect (formerly Devon & Cornwall Counselling Hub) nurtured my deep interest in people and behaviours. I’ve always been drawn to understanding what shapes us, and how we can move forward through pain, confusion or loss.

Life can be hard sometimes. Admitting this can be the first step toward healing. I won’t judge or advise - instead, we’ll gently sift through your thoughts, feelings and experiences together. Through this process, you can move toward rebuilding and restoration.

As partner to a RN Veteran, I have an understanding of the isolation and pressures which can arise.  

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.


Let’s find out together if we’re the right fit.

A Bit About Me

I offer trauma-informed, integrative counselling in a safe, confidential space for individuals and couples. I work from home in Plymouth and specialise in support for:

  • Pregnancy-related crises (including loss, infertility, IVF, abortion, TFMR, stillbirth)

  • Pregnancy support

  • Creating family differently including support for adopters, SGO & foster carers

  • Trauma and attachment (developmental trauma)

  • Bereavement, grief, anxiety and depression

  • Health and special educational needs challenges

  • Military Families

You're not a statistic. You will be seen. You will be heard.

 

My Approach

As an Integrative Counsellor, I’m trained in a number of evidence-based modalities including:

  • Person-Centred

  • Gestalt

  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

  • Transpersonal Therapy

Each of us is unique, with different thoughts, feelings and responses to life. My approach is to creatively tailor our work together so it reflects your personal needs. I believe that when mind, heart, body and soul are in connection, overall wellbeing is improved.

Experience

I bring together years of experience in Adult and Children’s Social Care and Education, where I’ve worked with families navigating complex challenges and developmental trauma. I am a member of Adoption UK, familiar with the National Therapeutic Parenting Network and the PACE approach (Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity, Empathy) – all of which help build emotional safety and connection.

Since qualifying, I have supported clients through:

  • Pregnancy-related issues and baby loss

  • Grief, trauma, PTSD, anxiety and depression

  • Historical and childhood trauma

I understand the impact of compassion fatigue and burnout, especially for parents, carers, and professionals navigating health, education or social care systems.