In this counsellor spotlight we speak to Kim who explains why she joined the team at Sue Lambert Trust and her love for concerts and theatre.
Working life
1 – What lead you to your role working with and volunteering at Sue Lambert Trust?
I’ve been an avid campaigner for supporting survivors of domestic and sexual abuse for quite some time and, after leaving my previous job in 2017, I wanted to find a way to work with survivors more directly. After embarking on my counselling degree, I applied for the position of trainee counsellor, and I’ve been here ever since! I’m now a qualified counsellor and facilitate the Creative Crafters group at the Great Yarmouth office.
2 -What do you like most about working for Sue Lambert Trust?
It feels cliché to say, but no two days are the same. I’m lucky enough to work with a diverse group of clients, and I feel honoured to be trusted with their experiences and their growth. The team in the Great Yarmouth office is both very close knit and supportive, and it’s great to be able to work within a team that holds so many of the same values that I do.
3 – What advice would you give to anyone considering volunteering as a counsellor?
Make sure you make time for self-care. Whilst the work can be incredibly rewarding, it’s also important to look after yourself. Make the most of the training and supervision that Sue Lambert offers, but also find non-work-related things to do. For me, I love nothing more than a warm bath and a few episodes of Brooklyn Nine-Nine after work.
Home life
1 – What do you like doing in your spare time, do you have any hobbies or interests?
Earlier this year, my son and I took in a dog, so between raising a teenager and raising a dog who thinks he’s a teenager, life can be pretty hectic! I absolutely love anything musical, and often take the opportunity to go to concerts or the theatre. I’m a complete bookworm, so I’m often found with a book in hand – or two, or three, and when time allows, I turn my own hand to writing.
2 – What’s your favourite food or meal?
I’ve always loved Italian food, whether it’s tiramisu or a traditional spaghetti bolognaise. But Cypriot food also holds a special place in my heart.
3 – What’s your favourite place to visit in Norfolk?
The UEA Broad. When I was studying at the UEA, I used to love sitting by the broad with a book in hand and a coffee between lectures. If I need to imagine somewhere peaceful to be, it’s often my go-to place if I need to imagine somewhere calm.
4 – If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Pissouri, in Cyprus. My parents moved out there several years ago, and It’s close enough to Paphos and Limassol that there’s plenty to do, whilst still being a small enough town for those who want a more traditional Cypriot experience.
If you are a qualified professional counsellor like Kim, please join us!
We have offices in Great Yarmouth and Norwich where face to face counselling takes place with clients, and we also offer online appointments via Zoom too.
Volunteer Counsellors donate a minimum of three hours per week, supporting our clients to heal and re-build their lives.
Find out more and apply for a volunteer role here or call 01603 622406.