About me
Hello, my name is Armel Wraight. I have been a counsellor for over 25 years in university and private practice settings. Over that time I have studied, trained and learned from working with thousands of people towards an understanding of what really helps us live life more wisely and happily. Before becoming a counsellor I worked in film, social policy research and the building industry.
I started my counselling career with a psychodynamic counselling training which focuses on development of the self, personality and the expression of our past experiences in our present lives, especially our relationships. I have since added to that the understanding and skills of cognitive behavioural therapy (often called CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Mindfulness.
In 2011 I began my training in Mindfulness which I now use in my practice to draw together all my previous experience and understanding. This allows an insight into the nature of the mind and a way of accepting and being kind towards our imperfect, human selves. Mindfulness has become a powerful balancing practice in my life. Regular meditation helps me to live well with all that life presents; joy and pain alike. I get very excited about sharing these skills with others.
What else do you do?
I am also experienced in writing and delivering psycho-educational workshops for varied audiences on a variety of subjects including stress management, depression, self-esteem, perfectionism, procrastination and Diversity, Equity, Inclusivity and Belonging. I work one to one and with groups as a counsellor and mindfulness teacher and trainer. I support all of this with meditation and a growing interest in yoga practice, queer intimacy and nature connection.
There are a lot of therapists to choose from, why pick you?
Research into what works in therapy shows that the quality of the relationship is the most important factor. To develop a good relationship I think you need someone who feels safe to be with, open and warm but also well trained and competent. As a senior accredited and registered counsellor I am committed to regular supervision, continuing professional development and the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy ethical framework http://www.bacp.co.uk/ethical_framework/
I believe this is very important to safeguard clients and work to a high standard. I am registered with the UK Network for Mindfulness Based Teachers and follow their good practice guidelines: http://mindfulnessteachersuk.org.uk/pdf/teacher-guidelines.pdf This means I am
- suitably trained
- committed to continuous professional development
- hold appropriate insurance
- receive supervision for my teaching.
I have spent considerable time establishing my own practice of regular meditation and retreats before teaching in order to fully embody mindfulness as a teacher. I think you’ll find me a skilful professional, compassionate, friendly, knowledgeable and with a sense of humour.
Why do you teach mindfulness?
Within the context of counselling, mindfulness provides tools and strategies which empower people to act with insight and wisdom towards managing their lives differently. People often feel that it is all well and good to understand the source of their problems or the frustrating cycle of thoughts and feelings but they frequently ask me “what can I do to change this?” This is where the practice of mindfulness helps open up the space between experiences and reactions to make room for wise response and self-management. Paradoxically in teaching you how to be with yourself mindfulness shows you what to do for yourself.
Personal experience has shown me it is a deeply harmonizing and balancing practice and I feel thrilled to share it with others and see their experience unfold. On its own mindfulness provides a practical, daily activity to nourish and explore the self and one’s relationship to the inner and outer world. Mindfulness groups can be a wonderfully supportive environment to accept what is to be human and to find connection.