Gill Blades, an accredited counsellor with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, moved to the Algarve 18 months ago with her family and is now working in private practice and in several medical centres across the region.
Since arriving in the region, Gill has found her niche and discovered that many people have a need for counselling.
“What I have experienced most in the Algarve is that people are sometimes unsure as to whether they should be coming for counselling, as they feel that living in an idyllic setting should ensure contentment and emotional wellbeing,” said Gill.
The reality, she said, can be very different, with many issues discussed being no different from those brought by people in England.
“We are all at times seeking a more settled, peaceful existence and this is where counselling can offer a safe space to hear yourself fully, allowing time for true reflection in a non-judgemental and trusting environment,” said Gill.
Alongside her private work, she also worked within the NHS for several years, giving her the opportunity to work with many different people from all walks of life. ”Working in the NHS, in two busy surgeries, gave me the opportunity to work with people from poorer backgrounds alongside wealthy individuals from seemingly privileged backgrounds suffering from the same level of stress and anxiety,” she said.
Having gained her diploma in counselling in 1998, Gill worked with a bereavement service for two years, before moving on to general counselling, dealing with many issues including relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, loss and bereavement, panic attacks and much more.
“I became a fully accredited Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) in 2005,” said Gill. “This is a stage further on from holding a Diploma Accreditation of the BACP and serves as protection for the client and also the counsellor, as a strict Code of Ethics must be adhered to.”
To discuss any issues in the strictest confidence, please contact Gill Blades on 912 459 825 or e-mail [email protected]
