Our Counsellors.
Our Counsellors
Lorraine Fitzsimmons
Counsellor
Lived life experiences, including becoming a carer for my family members. During this period, I experienced a decline in my own mental health, and I engaged in the services offered by Break the Silence. I can honestly say that this was the turning point in my life and helped to determine my future path into becoming a counsellor. Being met with kindness, understanding, compassion and empathy allowed me space to believe in myself again and provided hope for the future. This experience gave me the motivation and inspiration to support others facing challenges and difficulties.
Andrew Baird
Counsellor
I am a latecomer to counselling; in various roles over 45 years, I have helped many people who have suffered tragic and traumatising circumstances. I have experienced significant trauma on more than one occasion and I am grateful for the counselling support I received which led to my recovery. My past work and personal experience drive and inform my strong desire to help people. Working with Break the Silence allows me to engage in my passion to help others. I particularly enjoy meeting with clients face to face at outreach clinics. There I do my best to create a place where clients can feel safe and in control, enabling them to make sense of their trauma. Sometimes I describe myself as a guide, helping clients to make informed decisions about their destination and the route they choose to get there in their own time.
Susan Dickson
Counsellor
I have worked at BtS since 2013 and feel very grateful and humbled to have worked with so many courageous men and women over the years. I am a person-centred counsellor which really just means my main focus is on the person and their unique experience and not solely on the problem/issues they may present with. My aim is to respect and preserve every person’s autonomy and choice whilst encouraging every client I meet to be an active participant in all aspects of their therapy.
Ruth Hope
Counsellor
Lived life experiences.
Shirley MacMillan
Counsellor
I have always enjoyed working with people and over time realised my interest in counselling. At times it has been challenging, however, I feel privileged that clients put their trust in me, and I always endeavour to do my best for them.
Louise Roberts
Counsellor
My journey began when I was a client in therapy myself. I learned that my past was impacting on my present in very real ways and with the support of my therapist I was able to trust myself and my abilities to make better choices to create change. I recognised the value of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and soon after I began volunteering with Victim Support Scotland then went on to Study CBT.
Ravinder Samuels
Counsellor
I initially questioned the idea of how ‘just talking’ could help with issues which were deep rooted. Having attended the introductory course while in a full time position as a teacher in a very challenging school I started to see changes not only in myself but in my students too as they experienced empathy, non judgement whilst being heard. I listened more and encouraged them to reflect. Overall attitudes and behaviours changed in a positive way. For a while I balanced both roles going part time as a teacher. I love my role of supporting clients on their journey as they find their own answers, build self esteem and confidence.
Sheila Wassell
Counsellor
I historically have worked with children and young adults who have experienced sexual trauma, and felt I would like to extend my knowledge and work therapeutically. I completed my counselling training in 2004 and have since always worked with sexual trauma. I value the holistic client led support Break the Silence provides. Break the Silence values the core beliefs that underpin my practice. As a counsellor I believe the connection between myself and the clients I work with fosters trust, respect, acceptance, and a non-judgemental safe space to reflect and explore the challenges or obstacles they face.
Heidi Wilke
Counsellor
My journey to become a therapist started when, after a particularly challenging period in my life, I received some counselling and found it so helpful that it marked the beginning of a new more positive chapter and direction for me. I then wanted to be able to offer that out to others and so I started my counselling training.
