Jo Read , BACP

Jo Read trained in therapeutic counselling and gained a Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling in 2016, accredited by the Counselling and Psychotherapy Awarding Body (CPCAB). She is also a qualified social worker and a registered member of the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (BACP), holding relevant insurance and an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check for work with young people under 16. Alongside formal qualifications, Jo has built extensive experience working with young people and adults across youth and community work, education, mental health and social care.

Her practice is rooted in a person-centred approach, emphasising unconditional positive regard, empathy and congruence to create respectful therapeutic boundaries. Jo uses open questions and active listening skills such as reflection and summarising to help clients articulate their concerns and identify their own priorities. She works within the ethical framework of the BACP and maintains regular professional supervision and personal therapy to support her clinical work and development.

Initial contact with Jo includes an assessment and a shared discussion about goals and expectations, followed by a counselling agreement that can be reviewed over time. Her aim is to offer practical, compassionate talk-based support that helps clients explore feelings, repair self-relationship, and work toward clearer personal goals using approaches and tools agreed during sessions.