I first met Judith over 10 years ago through an Occupational Health Referral after a long period of sickness absence due to work related stress. Since then she has supported me during further difficult work related issues and more recently during difficult emotional periods caring for 4 elderly parents and in laws with dementia. Without her input I feel I would not have been able to return to the work environment or to the high level role that I held.
We instantly had a rapport. Her approach is patient, supportive, encouraging and empathetic but analytical, challenging and probing when needed. She was fundamental in helping me unpick my ‘normal reactions to abnormal events’ and to identify my ‘core beliefs’ so that I could rethink and restructure my thoughts and then learn how I manage myself by having realistic coping strategies. I have learned not to be too hard on myself and now when I do have difficult times I am able to deploy the strategies and I am more self-reflective, analytical and resilient.
I am very grateful to Judith for her help over the years and count myself fortunate indeed to have met her. Remarkably, all our sessions were conducted over the phone. I chose this format, it worked well for me as there were no visual distractions allowing absolute focus on our conversations and it meant Judith was accessible to me wherever and whenever I was away from home.