Frances began working and training in psychotherapy and counselling 21 years ago in 1988. She has MAs from Oxford University, and the University of East London/Tavistock Clinic (Distinction), a Post-Graduate Diploma in Counselling from the University of London (Distinction), and professional training in hypno-psychotherapy from the National College of Hypnosis and Psychotherapy. She is currently working towards UKCP accreditation in hypno-psychotherapy.

Frances worked in mental health and social services for 10 years running groups and counselling services for a wide variety of individuals whose problems included depression, extreme anxiety, eating disorders and relationship difficulties. She has also provided counselling in GP surgeries, drama schools and to university students and staff.

Although her original therapeutic training was psychodynamic, in recent years, whilst moving between London, the USA, and now Bristol, she trained and worked in coaching using a CBT approach to problem-solving. She also has experience of working with Inter-Cultural therapy and Group Consultancy. Most recently she has trained in Cognitive Hypnotherapy as this new approach offers effective, evidence-based treatment for a wide range of personal problems. Over the years Frances has had more than 750 hours training in psychotherapy and counselling, plus over 150 hours of training in coaching techniques, and more than 200 hours of hypno-psychotherapy tuition.  She continues to update her skills with regular CPD.  In addition to her other skills she is currently studying for a professional qualification in CBT in order to be fully accredited with UKCP and BABCP.

Central to her way of working is Frances' belief that counselling and psychotherapy depend on creating an exceptional relationship with a client which allows them to explore any aspect of their behaviour, gaining new insights and freeing them to move forward. Whatever comes up can be addressed with sensitivity and understanding, and the benefit of many years experience.

Frances does not practice NLP in any shape or form as she remains unconvinced of its long-term benefits!