My name is Martin Stokley and I am based in Dover, Kent (CT15). I have been practicing as a counsellor since 2011. As well as my own private counselling practice I have experience working in bereavement counselling (Woodside Bereavement Service, South Norwood) and general counselling contexts (Care To Listen, Croydon). I have also spent a short-time working on an IAPT counselling team. Additionally, I work as a counselling trainer at a south London college and I have co-taught a bereavement counselling training course.
In my counselling practice I have worked with adult clients across all age ranges, from age 18, up to and beyond retirement. I am committed to offering a service which is welcoming to all backgrounds, cultures, spiritualities, genders and sexualities in a supportive and non-discriminatory manner.
My Training
My initial training was a Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling at Spurgeon’s College, South Norwood (2011-2013). I then went on to complete the MSc Therapeutic Counselling (with merit) at the University of Greenwich (2014-2018) where my research project explored the experience of childless therapists.
Each year I undertake continuing professional development as a therapist to develop my skills and keep up to date.
I have also gained a certificate in online and telephone counselling at a standard recognised by the Association for Counselling & Therapy Online (ACTO).
Additionally I have undertaken a four day training in counselling supervision with Dr Linda Charles
Previous Experience
Before I trained as counsellor I studied physics at university gaining a PhD. I then trained to be a Church Minister and worked in a churches for 8yrs. I have moved away from this sphere of work now, but have a good understanding of the potential impact of religious communities on emotional wellbeing.
Although my own spiritual beliefs are based on Christianity I am open to exploring with clients how their own spirituality may impact on or be a helpful in their situation. I respect the diversity of spiritual experience and expression that people have and as a counsellor I never impose my own spiritual beliefs on clients.
Professional Body Memberships
As a counsellor I am accredited [Registered Member MBACP (Accred)] with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I work within the BACP ‘Ethical Framework for Counsellors’ and also the BACP Guidelines for Online Counselling and Psychotherapy. Information relating to both of these can be found at: www.bacp.co.uk
I am also Level 1 member of ACTO the Association for Counselling & Therapy Online (ACTO)
Publications