Michael Forrest
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