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Michael Forrest portrait

Michael Forrest

Trainer, Counsellor and Psychotherapist
Speaks English
Current Country: United Kingdom
Certified Trainer since 2009
"Zen is the art of waiting in the stillness at the Core of your Being"

Working in an embodied and relational way, I offer a safe, empathic space for you to explore anything that may be troubling you - it may be a challenge or difficulty you're currently facing, a feeling of unease and dissatisfaction with your life or the need to come to terms with something from your past.  Over time, I aim to help you develop a greater self-awareness and inner resilience to meet life.  This is based on my experience of working as a therapist with individuals and couples for 20 years, someone who's had 35 years’ mindfulness experience and as a supervisor and certified trainer in NVC (Nonviolent Communication).

In my work, I integrate the approaches I've been trained in - some of which I first met and received in order to heal my own trauma.  I am a BACP Accredited counsellor, psychotherapist and supervisor.

My Specialisms Include:

Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Anger Issues, Relationship Issues & Relational Dynamics, Couples, Loss & Bereavement, Confidence & Self-Esteem, and Mindfulness.

I have previously  worked in a Hospice as a Bereavement Counsellor, as well as the NHS supporting individuals with complex trauma.  I also worked for Social Services out-of-hours Emergency Duty Team for 12 years, supporting families in crisis, through conflict resolution and mediation.  

My Approach:

I recognise early life experiences and relationships may have shaped how you see the world.  They can also have a profound impact on your sense of self.   You may have needed to disconnect from your experience at times just to survive emotional pain.  This is a natural way of coping for a time but if left in place permanently can reduce your ability to be spontaneous and fully engage in life.

I have compassion for others who are struggling as I've had a deep therapeutic journey myself.  My presence supports you to meet your challenges.  I recognise it's important to develop inner resources before working with strong emotions that can arise in therapy.  Any resources and skills you develop whilst with me, add to your on-going inner resilience.

Professional Membership:

I am an accredited member of British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP). 

Training, qualifications & experience:

Advanced Diploma in Relational Supervision (2021 - 2022, Severn Talking Therapy)

Certificate in Relational Therapy (2020 - Relational School of Therapy)

Embodied Dance Journey Facilitator (2015-2017, The Dancing Heart Path CZ)

Advanced Diploma in Integrative & Humanistic Counselling (2009-11, Dartmoor Centre for Counselling & Psychotherapy)

Certified Trainer in Non-Violent Communication (NVC) (2001-05)

Certificate in Focusing Skills (2001)

Foundation in Core Process Psychotherapy (1998-99, Karuna Institute)

Previous Experience

35 Years Mindfulness Practice, also Co-Facilitator of Mindfulness Courses for Devon Recovery Learning Community (2014)

Trainer in NVC (Nonviolent Communication), working with individuals and small groups (2005 - current)

12 Years - Torbay Social Services, Emergency Duty Service, providing mediation, conflict resolution and crisis support for families in need, as well as supporting individuals with mental health issues (2002-14)

Bereavement Counsellor, Rowcroft Hospice - Torquay (2010-13)

Counsellor for NHS Devon Partnership Trust - Torquay (2009-11)

Facilitator of Trauma Skills Training for Counsellors - Battiacaloa, Sri Lanka (2005-07)

Co-Founder of Floatation & Complementary Health Centre - Exeter (1996-98)

Buddhist Monk, Thai Forrest Tradition, Mindfulness Training - English Sangha Trust (1988-95)

“If you just set People in Motion, they will Heal Themselves”

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TRAINING FOCUS:

  • Conflict Resolution
  • Counseling & Coaching
  • Facilitation
  • General
  • Health & Healing
  • Intimate Relationships
  • Mind-Body-Spirit
  • Parenting & Family
The only real way out, is through

Contact Michael Forrest