Jillian Gardner

Child and Adolescent Psychotherapeutic Counsellor

I  have a post-graduate diploma in Child and Adolescent Psychotherapeutic Counselling from The University of Cambridge and I am UKCP (UK Council for Psychotherapy) Accredited.

In my therapy sessions I encourage young people to express themselves using art materials, sandtrays, games, drama, clay work and therapeutic stories.  I believe that using these creative resources enables a child or young person to think about and process their feelings without having to rely solely on words, as they may not have the vocabulary to describe the emotional complexities they are experiencing.  Once a child is helped to find the right words for their feelings, the negative thoughts that have been troubling them can lose their power.

My clinical experience includes working with children and parents for a Cambridge-based charity which offers 1:1 weekly therapy sessions within the school setting.  I have worked with children experiencing trauma, grief, loss, change, domestic violence and attachment issues and the sessions provide a safe and confidential space for them during troubled times.  

Prior to becoming a counsellor, I have worked as a primary school teacher, deputy headteacher, Ofsted Inspector, university student mentor and as regional deputy manager of a national organisation supporting young people who are facing difficulty in accessing education.  I have also been a foster carer.

I have regular clinical supervision to ensure that I am providing a high quality experience to the individuals and families with whom I work.  I have full professional liability insurance and a current enhanced DBS check, allowing me to work with young people.

Email: uk.jwgardner@protonmail.com