Martina Kirkland
Dip. Humanistic Integrative Counselling
Registered Member MBACP
Hello,
I am Martina, an integrative counsellor with extensive experience helping clients overcome self-sabotage, low-self esteem, identity and relationship issues, shame, trauma, and abuse. My life journey has given me a deep understanding of how difficult experiences can shape us. Through a collaborative approach, I empower you to process these experiences and build a more peaceful and fulfilling life.
Born in Prague and living in the UK for over 25 years, I bring a unique perspective to my work. I understand the complexities of navigating different cultures, the challenges of fitting in society (or not), and the impact these experiences can have on our identity and well-being.
Could I Be the Right Counsellor for You?
Your life's struggles are welcome here. My own journey involved navigating challenges and healing from past traumas. I've felt lost, adrift, ashamed, stuck. I didn't feel I fitted in and I felt pressure to conform.
The Scars That Shape Us
We all carry stories, some joyful, others marked by past and present trauma's shadows. I understand how these experiences can shape your present life.
Understanding Your Journey
Through my own challenges, I developed empathy for those facing various hurts. Loss and upheaval are inevitable. I've experienced the perspective shift that comes with serious illness/loss and the pressure to pretend everything's fine while struggling.
Building Healthy Relationships
Relationships can be complex. I've grappled with prioritizing others' needs and the difficulty of rebuilding trust.
Neurodiversity and Authenticity
My personal experience with neurodiversity and supporting a family member with Autism and ADHD allows me to emphasise with the challenges neurodivergent individuals and their families face. I understand how lonely and difficult the life can be and the importance and challenges of advocacy.
Finding your place in the world
Growing up in a harsh and rigid culture and living in a new, different culture for most of my adult life I understand how difficult it can be to know who you are and where you belong. Finding out who you are without the cultural or family conditioning can be tough. Learning to accept, understand and love your authentic self can take time.
A Tapestry of Experience
My diverse background allows me to connect with people from all walks of life. This, combined with my training, offers a holistic approach.
Qualifications & Experience:
Diploma in Humanistic Integrative Counselling (Dunamis Therapy Hub)
Certificate in Counselling (Dunamis Therapy Hub)
Foundations of Modern Psychology and Research Methods (Birkbeck University Faculty of Continuing Education)
Ongoing training and professional development in areas of Trauma, Sexual Abuse Trauma, Suicide and Self-harm prevention, Grief and loss, Inner Child work and Creative Interventions.
Private Practice: Offering confidential and supportive counselling.
MIND: Supporting clients with various mental health challenges.
EAP work: Providing short-term therapy through employee assistance programmes.
Hospice: Providing compassionate support to patients, caregivers, and bereaved families.
Your Journey Starts Here
If any part of my story resonates with you, let's connect and see how I can support you on your healing journey towards a fulfilling life.
“Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our light”
— Brené Brown