Alison Woodward Counselling & Psychotherapy

23/09/2022

A recent blog for STARS Dorset. It was interesting to write and a good reminder of how we as humans operate.

When we experience anything that activates our primitive survival system (Flight/Flight/Freeze or Flop) our logical thinking switches off, an appropriate response to something that is potentially life threatening, whether real or perceived. Yet, our response (flight/fight/freeze or flop) often leave...

06/02/2021

A blog to end SV awareness week for you to have a little read

Our blog today looks at “How the Brain Works in Response to a Traumatic Event” and is written by STARS Dorset’s Clinical Supervisor, Alison Woodward.

It looks at the Five Trauma Responses from the brain: Fight, Flight, Freeze, Flop and Friend.

Read the full article here: www.starsdorset.org/blog/how-the-brain-works-in-response-to-a-traumatic-event-fight-flight-freeze-flop-friend

02/02/2021

It was a pleasure to be a guest on Penny’s Hill GP Surgery’s podcast recently. It is sexual violence awareness week this week so an important topic to raise more awareness of the impact of trauma.

You're listening to season 2 of the Penny's Hill Practice podcast!In this episode, Dr Geoff Hamp and Dr Sam McGinley are joined by Alison Wo...

21/12/2020

Excited to be leading this session in the new year for STARS Dorset.

STARS Dorset Business Webinar for Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week – 1st – 7th February 2021

21/03/2020

I have moved all client contact to online as of Monday 23/3/2020. Existing clients will have received an email from me to explain how this will work. It has been a big decision but is right for now. Working remotely will bring new opportunity to develop relationships and enhance our awareness. I am excited about the change whilst acutely aware of the loss of being in a room with another. Balancing both the sadness and loss of how we have been with moving forward in this new world is difficult. Social connection and physical distancing is the key.
Stay safe and keep talking.

07/03/2020

Fantastic day training new volunteers at STARS

16/02/2020

“So proud to have a very small part in this important exhibition. Victim Blaming is our culture, it is safer to blame someone for ‘asking for it’ than to consider how hateful, painful and sad the world can be. Today more than ever challenge your views https://t.co/CQWKCN...

06/02/2020

A blog I wrote recently for STARS ... so important to understand when working with any form of trauma. How our brain and body keep us alive in the face of danger is something to be celebrated, not hidden away in shame.

In this blog by Alison Woodward, Clinical Supervisor at STARS Dorset, we look at How the Brain Works in Response to a Traumatic Event. The 5 Fs, Fight, Flight, Freeze, Flop and Friend.

06/01/2020

UNDERSTANDING DOMESTIC ABUSE, STALKING, BULLYING & SEXUAL HARASSMENT IN THE WORKPLACE

Training Day 17th January 2020, 9am - 4pm at The Stourvale Centre, 108 Stourvale Rd, Bournemouth BH6 5JB

With Safe Space Consultancy & YMCA Bournemouth we're hosting a full day training for Employers, Directors, Managers, Team Leaders & Supervisors. Domestic abuse is everyone's business and as part of the government's consultation to transform the response to domestic abuse for all sectors of our society, it's necessary to have a greater understanding of this complex issue.

Subjects covered on the day:
• Understanding the Impact of Domestic Abuse & Stalking in the Workplace including:

• Spotting the Signs
• Supporting an Employee
• Reducing the Risk (to individual & organisation)
• Understanding Bullying & Harassment in the Workplace
• Impact of Sexual Harassment in the Workplace

Outcomes:
• In-depth understanding of the prevalence & impact of domestic abuse & stalking in the workplace
• Greater ability to spot signs & support staff
• Enable organisations to understand their responsibilities, thereby reducing risk to staff & organisation

For attendees who are members of regulatory bodies the training on Domestic Abuse & Stalking in the Workplace is CPD Accredited. All delegates will receive a certificate of attendance.
Cost per delegate is £65.00. Please register your interest by emailing julie@safespaceconsultancy.org

21/12/2019

A fantastic resource for the residents of Dorset. Pop along if you are struggling over Christmas 🎄

If you’re struggling with your mental health over the festive period, you can find face-to-face support at the Retreat. There’s no need to make an appointment or ring ahead, just turn up and find a safe place to discuss your problems. Dorset HealthCare University NHS Foundation Trust