Hi I’m Michelle, I am a BACP registered counsellor based in Angmering, West Sussex. I am passionate about facilitating a space where individuals can be heard and find meaning in the hardest of times.
I started volunteering at 18 offering musical activities for people living with acquired head injuries. I found each individual fascinating: their stories, their resilience, and their unique challenges.
This experience inspired me to pursue a career in the care and education sectors. However, over time, I found nothing ever felt truly fulfilling. I became increasingly tired and frustrated working within systems I had little control over, systems where individuals were not listened to. People wanted to share their problems with me, but I didn’t know how to help.
I decided to learn to listen, not just with my ears, but with my eyes, my mind and my heart. I chose to step away from the restrictive systems where individuals were not heard. This shift led me to become a therapist.
Ting – the Japanese symbol for listening
My Approach
I will work with you as an individual, recognising that therapy is not one-size-fits-all. The work we do together will be shaped around your unique experiences and needs.
My approach is relational; I believe the connection between us is central to meaningful change. I offer a genuine, non-judgemental presence and aim to create a calm, safe space where you feel truly heard.
I am passionate about working with people struggling with anxiety, burnout and loss.
I’m a Therapist But I’m Also a Person
You know your life better than anyone. I’m here to listen without judgement and to help you explore and understand what’s happening for you.
Things that make me human
◦ I care about people
◦ I care deeply about what I do
◦ I don’t care if you swear in a counselling session, sometimes I need to swear too
◦ I’ve made mistakes and I still do
◦ I’ve experienced loss and it still hurts
◦ I’ve experienced trauma
When I’m not being a therapist …
◦ Listening to music is a big part of my day: I like to dance in my kitchen like no one is watching
◦ I can find calm playing the piano
◦ I love to swim
◦ I love to read
Experience
Qualifications
NCFE CACHE Level 2 Award in Helping Skills
NCFE CACHE Level 3 Award in Counselling Skills and Theory
Level 5 Diploma Humanistic Counselling
CPD
Trauma & Risk
Brief therapy workshop
5 Practical trauma-informed interventions
Understanding & working with trauma
Exploring suicidal risk with clients
Introduction to suicide awareness
Assessing risk
Bereavement & Loss
Pregnancy and infant loss & infertility awareness
Bereavement awareness
Mental Health & Wellbeing
Working with clients with depression
Menopause and mental health
Understanding & managing loneliness
Stress & burnout
Introduction to anxiety disorders
Understanding Anxiety Disorders & Supportive Strategies
Therapy & the Arts
Neurodiversity & Specialist Areas
Introducing autism-informed practice Understanding Gender & Gender Identification
Email: Michelle@baresoulcounselling.com Phone: 07760 770736