About Me
Tom Coles, MBACP
Hi. I’m Tom. The short version: I’m an integrative counsellor and DBT therapist who specialises in working with addiction, anger, anxiety & depression, and borderline personality disorder.
Training
My experience began at a rehabilitation service for drugs and alcohol in Hertfordshire where I stayed throughout my training. I completed my level 4 counselling diploma at West Herts College, which included aspects of psychodynamic, humanistic, & behavioural therapies.
Whilst studying, I was lucky enough to hold several placements working with young people, including as School counsellor at Sandringham School in St Albans.
My DBT training was provided by the British Isles training team who are the leaders in DBT training within the UK.
Development
I joined the general therapy team at the Priory Hospital in North London, where I currently practice, alongside working privately. I provide specialised 1:1 therapy for anxiety, depression, anger management, borderline personality disorder, and addiction, for young people and adults. I am a member of the DBT team and facilitate weekly groups for outpatients. It has been a rich developmental experience as the Hospital has remained open throughout the pandemic, and I have witnessed the increase in the intensity of mental health concerns as a result.
Mindfulness
I have a keen interest in mindfulness, both personally and professionally. I completed an 8 week mindfulness based cognitive therapy program at the Oxford Mindfulness centre in 2018, and in 2020 I attended a silent retreat with the London Buddhist centre. As my therapy experience progresses, I am more convinced that mindfulness is one of the best strategies for a range of emotional difficulties.
Further Learning
I have always found the subject of relationships comes up frequently in therapy, so in 2020 I began a 2 year diploma in psychosexual and relationship therapy with the contemporary institute of clinical sexology. This is allowing me to develop towards working with sexual function and relationship problems. The training looks at the biological, psychological, and social aspects of sexual function issues and relationships. It is refreshing to learn how to openly explore the topic of sex as it can sometimes be difficult to discuss.
BACP membership
I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy. The BACP is a professional body set up to promote and monitor best practice within counselling and psychotherapy, and to look after the people who use them. My registration details are located below.
