
Claire Eva Shepherd
Counsellor & Psychotherapist
Reg MBACP

My Experience
I have been working as a counsellor/ psychotherapist since 2004. My training is as a person-centered counsellor. I would describe myself as Integrative as I use more than one methodology in therapy according to your needs. I have worked in agency placements for young adults, for local communities, as a senior school counsellor, as a CPD group facilitator, in private practice, within a mental health and wellbeing team in the NHS, and most recently as a tutor for the Iron Mill College in Exeter.
I believe absolutely in a holistic approach that sees you as a whole; no healthy body, without health thoughts, without balance in mind, body, and spirit. Always keeping an awareness that everybody's point of balance is different and unique to them. I understand the need for medical terms, but often find mental health labels unhelpful as once a label is given it is usually paired with a certain course of treatment. I strongly believe each persons healing path is unique and should not be set or limited according to a diagnosis.
I have for many years supported counselling students through their studies by offering reduced rates according to their course needs. Helping students to understand course group dynamics, power imbalances between tutor and students, and to explore learning placement experiences. If you are a student please call to discuss your needs.
As with all therapists my personal and professional development is ongoing, here is a brief list of some of the courses that I have undertaken to improve my understanding and ability to help clients: -
Brain, Gut Relationship Facilitating Group Work
Children Young People – Loss, Death & Grief Couples Counselling
Creative & Focus Approaches ADHD
Working with Self-Harm Dyslexia in Children & Adults
Early Intervention in Psychosis Drug Awareness
Issues of Depression Speaking Sexually
Exploring Spirituality Art Therapy
How Colour Affects You Anxiety
Origins of The Human Mind Stress and Your Body
Philosophy as A Guide to Living Food & Mood
Supporting Dementia The Family System
Foundations in Dementia Arts4Dementia
Emotional Regulation in Autism Childhood Adversity
PTSD A Global View Depression or Low Mood
Equality & Diversity Understanding Brain Health
Carer Awareness Creative Problem Solving
I have a keen and special interest in supporting parents who are home educating, and adults who are diagnosed with or suspect they have neuro-diverse brains, often referred to as learning difficulties these include Dyslexia, ADHD, OCD etc... I have been a home educator, and have a personal investment in neuro-diversity as it runs in my family, giving me first hand experience of many of the issues that a neuro-diverse brain struggles with as a child and as a adult. Through my work with the NHS I have supported many parents requesting an AS/ADHD assessment. Waiting for a diagnosis can take years, for children and adults I strongly recommend looking into your right to chose -https://adhduk.co.uk/right-to-choose/ If you're struggling at work ask about 'reasonable adjustments'.
Contact
Information
Email, Text, or Call.
I try to respond as quickly as possible to all contact.
Contact For A Home Visit, Phone or Online Therapy
Call: 07841-474398