Karen Drennan-McEwan Ad. Dip. Cp., MNCS Acc. M.A Hons.

I am an integrated Counsellor, Psychotherapist and Author specialising in telephone and on-line counselling and psychotherapy for
people in chronic pain or with severe illnesses, with particular expertise in auto-immune conditions including lupus:

“The integration of psychological interventions with the treatment of chronic pain is essential”. – Dr Allen Leibovits PhD.

It is a holistic and multi-layered approach some of which is explored in my self-help book “How to Stay Sane in Pain – Clarity, Resilience and Calm with Lupus“, which describes my own experience of being in continuous pain for five years because of a lupus flare.

I was diagnosed with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) in 2012. SLE is currently an incurable but non-contagious autoimmune medical condition, which has mild, moderate and severe forms and is subject to heightened periods of disease activity known as flares. It belongs to a group of autoimmune conditions which includes fibromyalgia, Sjögren’s Syndrome, Raynaud’s Disease and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.

My approach uses tried, tested and the latest mind/body techniques. It operates completely in tandem and in support of conventional medical treatment.

I also work alongside complementary therapies, specialist dietary advice and alternative healthcare systems such as acupuncture.

Telephone sessions may be supported by unique worksheets sent via email, as and when required.

Telephone counselling can be particularly useful if your health makes it difficult for you to travel to conventional treatment rooms; if you are housebound or if you have mobility issues.

Qualifications

Accredited Member of the National Counselling Society.

Advanced Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy – Passed with Distinction due to excellence in theory and practice. Ad. Dip. CP.

Diploma in Counselling – Passed NVQ Level 3.

I abide by the code of ethics of the National Counselling Society of England and Wales.

Experience and Training

Certificate in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

Treating Chronic Stress

The Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT)

Mindfulness

Breath work

Guided Meditation and positive visualisation

Counselling young people with complex disabilities

Coping with disability

Hidden disabilities

Equality and diversity

Creative therapies including sand play

Working with personality disorder

Autistic spectrum and depression

I undergo continuous professional development and training and all my work is subject to regular and highly experienced supervision.