Sameer Munjal BSc (Hons) PGDip. MBACP
I provide trauma-focussed psychotherapy for adults and young adolescents
Let Me Get Personal
I struggled with low self-esteem for a long time. Despite being confident, articulate and ‘doing well’ (at least according to others), I found it incredibly difficult to maintain relationships. I was never satisfied with any aspect of my life and always on edge – convinced that I would be ‘found out’ and people would realise that I was worthless. It was easier to be distant and not be seen.
Life events can force us to step back and reflect on who we are and why/how we feel and behave in the ways that we do. The illness (and subsequent loss) of a loved one made me decide to raise my self-awareness and try to answer the questions that were coming up time and again. I wanted to be comfortable in my own skin and offer something worthwhile to the world.
Reading about spirituality, psychology, philosophy and the obligatory self-help books have all shaped my understanding so far, but I continue to learn.
Through my own experience and training I have come to appreciate the importance of family histories in shaping who we are and how we experience life. Abuse and neglect of various kinds can happen in even the most well-intentioned families and leave lasting effects on the mind, body and spirit.
I serve to help others recognise, understand and heal from their personal trauma.
Qualifications and Further Training
- Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy (Level 7) from the University of East London (UEL)
- CPCAB Award in Counselling Skills
- CPCAB Award in Introduction to Counselling
- BSc (Hons) Human Biology
- Working with Complex Trauma (Stage 1)
- Working with Complex Trauma (stage 2)
- Certificate in Couple/Relationship Therapy – Level 5 Thematic Accreditation (College of Sexual and Relationship Therapists – COSRT)
- Experienced in the mental health sector (childhood trauma)
- Mental Health First Aider (MHFA)
As a part of my commitment to ethical practice, I undertake at least 30 hours of Continuous Professional Development (CPD) activity every year (courses, reading, seminars)
Experience
- 3+ years’ experience in the mental health sector (charity supporting survivors’ of childhood abuse and neglect)
- Work with adolescents, young adults and families who have been affected by various forms of abuse and neglect (school, fostering agency and NHS contracted agency)
- Mentored adolescents in school setting
- Written and/or facilitated training on various topics including: nurturing child mental health, emotional abuse and stress responses
Specialism
I work with the lasting effects of family related problems – often referred to as complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (c-PTSD), which can affect how people view themselves and relate to others. The problems and effects include:
- Parent/child relationships
- Emotional abuse
- Generalised anxiety
- Physical abuse
- Low self-esteem
- Low self-confidence
- Self harm
- Sexual abuse
- Social anxiety
