Maria Howell
BA (Hons), MBACP (Accredited)
A Little About Me...
I’m passionate about psychology, self-care, and personal development. I enjoy engaging in activities that boost my mood and bring a sense of calm, such as singing, watching live music, meditation, yoga, and nature walks. Being by or doing activities at sea is particularly fulfilling for me, along with skiing, travel, art, and baking, all of which contribute to my well-being and creativity.
Professional Summary
I began my counselling career with an Honours Degree in Humanistic Person-Centred Counselling, alongside three years of Play Therapy training in schools. I also volunteered at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children using play to aid recovery, followed by a year at MA level in Art Psychotherapy, where I co-led groups for individuals with complex mental health needs. I also worked as a mental health support worker in Australia and later volunteered as an online counsellor during COVID via YMCA upon returning to the UK. I established my private practice, initially under the umbrella of the private practice BCS, using it as a springboard to build my own business. Drawn to behavioural theory, I’ve integrated CBT methods into my work and explored DBT through CPD, as well as Trauma Informed training. Now in France, I’m navigating the challenges of building both a local and international presence.
Professional Experience
Private Practice Counsellor – Maria Howell Therapy
February 2021 – Present
Counsellor – BCS Mental Health Services
December 2021 – January 2023
Volunteer Counsellor – YMCA Release Counselling
April 2020 – May 2021
Mental Health Support Worker – ICLA Australia
December 2018 – June 2019
Trainee Counsellor/Play Therapist – Place2be
July 2008 – June 2011
Provide remote counselling for adults, addressing occupational, academic challenges, emotional difficulties, self-worth, relationship issues, neurodivergence, substance abuse, trauma, LGBTQIA+ and more.
For a full list, see the ‘Areas of Expertise’ section on my website.
Utilise an integrative counselling approach grounded in person-centred techniques, enriched by psychodynamic theory, trauma-focused therapy, CBT, and DBT elements gained through supervision, CPD, and practice. I endeavour to adapt methods to each client's needs.
Conduct client assessments, assess for long- or short-term work, manage risk, keep detailed notes, ensure ethical standards, attend supervision, and handle all client-related admin.
Develop the practice's website and digital marketing strategy to expand internationally while based in France. View my ‘Client Testimonials’ for further insight into my approach.
Provided in-person and remote counselling to clients ranging from children to adults, addressing diverse mental health issues similar to those in my current practice.
​
Reported and liaised with social services regarding child safety concerns.
​
Managed client intake, conducted assessments, monitored risk, maintained detailed notes, and attended supervision and actively engaged in weekly group meetings.
Conducted remote therapy sessions primarily via phone for community clients during the COVID-19 lockdown, offering both pro-bono and fee-based services.
Successfully facilitated mental health support, empowering clients to transition out of assisted living and achieve independence through finding work and housing.
Supported individuals with schizophrenia and co-morbid mental health conditions through therapeutic conversation and care plan adherence.
Assisted service users during psychotic episodes, ensuring stability and administering medications such as PRNs or regular medication as stated in their care plan.
Co-facilitated art therapy groups with former psychiatric hospital patients to support their reintegration into society within a supported living environment.
Utilised art as a therapeutic tool to help clients explore and express their emotions while continuously improving the quality of my work through essays, presentations and lectures.
Worked with children aged 5-11 in schools, addressing issues such as developmental delays, low self-esteem, bullying, behavioural problems, and family issues.
Received positive feedback from parents and teachers on the children's improved behaviour and relationships, as well as from my course tutors for the standard of my academic work.
Additional Experience
January 2020 – February 2022
March – June 2017
January 2020 – February 2022
March 2015 – January 2017
Receptionist – Goodman Jones
Head Receptionist – VCCP Partnership
Radio Lollipop Play Volunteer – Great Ormond Street Hospital
Receptionist – Cheyne Capital Management
