Hi, I'm Nicki, and this is my story.

Welcome! I’m a wife, mother to two incredible young adults both now in their 20’s, and a proud dog owner. My journey into counselling began in my mid-20s, during a period when I was struggling and seeking support for myself. It took courage for me to reach out and get help, but it was honestly one of the best things I have ever done, for a number of reasons.

I’ll never forget the moment my counsellor, seeing me through my tears, gently asked, “Have you ever thought about doing this work?” At the time, I thought the idea was absurd—but her words stayed with me, quietly planting a seed that would later grow into a lifelong passion.

Discovering My Calling

In 2003, I completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Integrative Counselling Practice and opened my private practice. Over the past 20+ years, I’ve been privileged to walk alongside countless individuals as they navigate their healing journeys, helping them find clarity and peace.

As a BACP-accredited counsellor, I’ve not only worked one-on-one with clients but also trained and mentored counsellors, creating workshops and programs to support both professionals and those seeking guidance. My work has allowed me to witness the transformative power of counselling firsthand, a gift I’m deeply grateful for every day.

Breaking Cycles: My Parenting Journey

Parenting has always been a deeply personal journey for me. Growing up in the 1970s, I faced the challenges of being raised by emotionally unavailable parents, a reality that left its mark on my early parenting style. Recognising the unhelpful patterns from my upbringing showing up in how I parented my own children, I made a conscious decision to break those cycles, not only for their benefit but for my own healing too.

That’s how I discovered Parenting by Design. It’s exactly what it sounds like: YOU DECIDE.

• Parent with Intention and Purpose: Instead of parenting reactively or simply hoping for the best, I began raising my children with clear goals in mind, envisioning the kind of family life I wanted to create.
• Proactive Approach: I didn’t just repeat what my parents did or follow fleeting trends. I took charge, shaping a parenting style and family environment that felt authentic and aligned with my values.
• Clarity in Values and Goals: This journey required me to identify the values and beliefs most important to me and my family. That clarity helped me parent with confidence, even when faced with challenges.

By embracing these principles, I not only grew as a parent but also strengthened my relationship with my children. I want the same for you and your children.

Parenting by design became my mission. I believe in shaping our approach intentionally, focusing on the kind of relationship we want to build with our children, rather than unconsciously repeating the past. With the world evolving so rapidly, it’s clear that conscious parenting is more important than ever.

Empowered Parenting: Tools for Growth

This determination led me to create the Empowered Parenting Programme, along with other courses that combine practical strategies with compassionate guidance. These programs are designed to help you navigate the challenges of parenting, foster stronger connections with your children, and nurture environments where the whole family can thrive.

• Embrace Consistent Decision-Making: Stop second-guessing or feeling pulled in different directions. With a clear framework, you can approach decisions with consistency and confidence.
• Remember Flexibility and Adaptability: Life is full of surprises, and kids will always keep you on your toes. Parenting by design provides the structure to adapt while staying true to your core values and goals.
• Build Stronger Family Bonds: A parenting approach grounded in connection and communication helps foster mutual understanding. When everyone in the family feels seen, heard, and valued, the bonds you share naturally strengthen.

Parenting isn’t about perfection, it’s about connection, presence, intention, and growth. My goal is to share the tools and wisdom I’ve gained over the years to empower you to lead with confidence and compassion.

An Invitation to Connect

If you’re seeking support in your parenting journey, I encourage you to take that first step. Whether you’re looking to process past pain, build healthier relationships, or navigate the challenges of parenting, there’s a world of possibilities waiting for you.

Let’s explore it together.

Warm wishes,
Nicki