Maria howell

What do sessions look like with me: Our first session typically involves me gathering your history, which can ease the pressure on you initially, as I know it can be tricky knowing where to start, while we also discuss the areas you'd like to focus our work together on. From there, sessions take on a more organic flow. If you find it helpful, I’m happy to provide homework or share resources, but that’s entirely up to you and what works best for your process. I work in an open-ended capacity, meaning you decide when you're ready to conclude. More on my personal style: I’d describe myself as more conversational than the typical counsellor. I encourage a natural flow of dialogue during sessions and won’t leave you sitting in awkward silence—unless, of course, that’s your preference. I also enjoy sharing laughter with you during sessions where it feels appropriate, as I believe it helps balance the seriousness of therapy and makes the process more approachable and human. The Best Way to Understand My Style? Hear It from My Clients! To read the full reviews do check them out on my website: https://mariahowelltherapy.com/#clientreviews They describe me as empathetic, compassionate, and insightful. They often mention my ability to listen without judgment, creating a safe, calming environment that encourages genuine reflection and growth. Clients value my gentle, supportive approach, balanced with the ability to challenge and prompt new perspectives thoughtfully. Through our sessions, they feel equipped with practical tools, a deeper understanding of their experiences, and greater confidence to navigate their lives. Many appreciate my openness and willingness to learn about and support diverse aspects of their lives, fostering a trusting, respectful, yet informal connection.

I trained in Person-Centred Counselling at Nottingham University, working with Place2Be, providing Play Therapy to children in schools. I then co-led Art Therapy groups with adults facing complex mental health challenges in 24-hour assisted living following psychiatric hospital stays, gaining a year’s experience in Psychotherapy at the MA level. In Australia, I worked as a mental health support worker with those diagnosed with schizophrenia in assisted living. During COVID, I volunteered via YMCA, supporting adolescents to adults, which inspired me to pursue Trauma-Informed Therapy to better aid clients. I later worked within the award-winning private practice BCS Mental Health in Wales, before refocusing on my own practice, gaining accredited status with the BACP. I have now moved to Nice, France, Côte d'Azur region where I am rooting my practice in support of the local international community.

• DBT Skills & Development Groups - Level 2 • Complex Trauma Certification (CCTP/CCTP-11) Online Evergreen Certifications (49 hours) with Janina Fisher • MA in Art Psychotherapy (Part-time) (1 year completed) University of Roehampton, 2012 – 2013 • BA (Hons) in Humanistic Counselling Studies (2:1) University of Nottingham, 2007 – 2011 I work with a broad range of issues to find out more: https://mariahowelltherapy.com/what-i-work-with#services I look forward to speaking with you via a free consult soon - to book either message me or book via the calendar >>