Welcome to Cardinem
Cardinem
… for the turning point of your life
Established in 2024, Cardinem is a counselling practice that provides a safe, confidential space for you to discuss your concerns. As a Counsellor, I offer empathy, attentive listening, and therapeutic techniques to help you manage and overcome emotional difficulties.
I believe that each client who enters into counselling is a unique individual whose needs are quite different from those of any other client.
I work using an eclectic approach to counselling, which means I select methods, techniques, and concepts from a variety of therapeutic approaches to best meet each individual client's needs.
Working together, we will explore and address past traumas, emotional struggles, or psychological difficulties to recognise what is holding you back, help you move forward, and improve your overall well-being.
Cardinem ~ Counselling
People from all backgrounds and nearly every age may seek counselling. No matter your circumstances, talking to someone impartial ~ someone who is not emotionally involved ~ can be helpful.
People consult a counsellor for many reasons. Some come with a specific problem; others feel that something is not quite right, even if they are not exactly sure what. Some attend during a crisis. Others use counselling alongside other tools to navigate life.
Sometimes those around us cannot help us as they may be too close. We may need to seek the help of a professional counsellor to move us forward and find solutions that are right for us. Discussing sensitive topics can feel awkward or embarrassing, and you may fear being judged or shamed.
I offer a safe, private, and supportive environment in which you can explore difficult, complex, or painful issues at your own pace. I will listen without judgment or opinions about what you should do. I will not provide answers or try to solve your problems. Instead, I will support you as you find your own way forward, whatever that may be.
Pluralistic approach ~ I adopt a pluralistic approach to counselling, which means I select methods, techniques and approaches from a variety of approaches as appropriate.
Short and long-term therapy ~ I offer short and long-term therapy ~ and will work with you until you are ready to step away.
I work in the following areas ~
- Relationship problems
- Loss and bereavement
- Anxiety and depression
- Stress
- Effects of abuse
- Effects of trauma
- Life crisis
- Confidence and self-esteem
I work with adults and offer daytime and early evening appointments in a comfortable room in Wakefield city centre. Therapy can be conducted face-to-face or via a video link, whichever you prefer.
I have a particular interest in male mental health, an area that is currently underrepresented in the counselling services available.
Getting started ~ I offer a free 15-minute introductory call to get to know each other and explore potential collaboration.
Our first session ~ this introductory session, along with information provided on the Client Information Form, provides a good framework for how we may work together. During this session, we will discuss what brought you to therapy and any tipping point that led you to seek support.
Each counselling session lasts 55 minutes.
Cardinem ~ About Me
Sarah-Jane O’Brien
BSc (Hons); MNCPS (Acc.); Dip CH; MCIPD
I am a Psychotherapist, Counsellor and Coach, and hold a
- A BSc (Hons) in Psychology with Counselling
- Professional Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling
- Certificate in Transactional Analysis
- Diploma in Coaching Practice
In addition, I hold BPS Level A (aptitude and ability tests) and Level B (personality profile) qualifications. I am trained in several psychometric tools, including the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (Steps 1 and 2), the 16PF, and the OPQ.
CPD activity includes:
Cruse: working with Bereavement and Loss
I am a Chartered Member of the CIPD. In my early career, I was a senior HR practitioner, working for several private (UK-based and international) businesses and non-profit organisations before establishing my own HR consultancy in 2009. My business and functional background has given me a wealth of experience and the relevant skills for coaching.
I am registered with the National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society (NCPS), one of the UK’s leading organisations for counselling and psychotherapy. Membership number NCS20-01221.
I hold an Enhanced Criminal Records Certificate Number 001956172610.