BACP membership
Registered member number 416426, with professional standards, supervision and continuing development at the heart of the work.
Meet your counsellor
About Shaz Swinson
A qualified integrative counsellor offering a thoughtful, down-to-earth space where children, young people and adults can feel genuinely heard.
Warm and professional
Hello, I’m Shaz.
I believe that you are the expert in your own life. My role is to listen carefully, without judgement, and help you make sense of thoughts, feelings and experiences that may feel tangled or difficult to carry alone.
I work integratively, drawing on person-centred, psychodynamic and cognitive behavioural approaches. Rather than fitting everybody into one method, I shape the work around the individual, their age, their needs and the pace that feels right for them.
I support children from age five, young people and adults, both in person in Uttoxeter and online where appropriate.
I use a trauma-informed approach across all ages, with an emphasis on trust, choice, respect for boundaries and working at your pace. Read about this approach in adult counselling.
Training and experience
Professional care you can feel confident in.
Shaz is a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy and works within its ethical framework.
Integrative training
CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling, supported by ongoing specialist learning and professional development.
Across different ages
Therapeutic experience with children, young people and adults, including work in specialist counselling settings.
Continuing professional development
Learning about childhood trauma.
Shaz continues to develop her understanding of childhood trauma through professional development and many hours of independent reading and research on the subject.
Understanding Traumatised Childrens Behaviours
Interplay / Donna Berry · 10 January 2026.
Shaz attended this course and received a certificate of attendance. This additional learning informs her trauma-informed approach to counselling with children and young people.
Explore Shaz’s trauma-informed approachAreas of development
Understanding the whole person.
Shaz’s training and experience include children and young people, safeguarding, neurodiversity, trauma-related behaviours, self-harm awareness, suicide prevention and compassion-focused work.
This knowledge supports the counselling relationship; it never replaces curiosity about your unique experience.
“You do not have to arrive with the right words. We can begin exactly where you are.”
A gentle first step
Would you like to see if Shaz feels right for you?
Ask a question or arrange a free 15-minute introductory call. There is no pressure to commit.