Slavitsa Mirovic, MSc, MPhil, MA, BACP

I am experienced integrative therapist, with interest in Anxiety and specialism in Couples Therapy. I integrate affective, systemic, cognitive and physiological therapeutic work with client’s social values. That means that I adapt the therapy to my client and not the client to the therapy. Over a number of years I have seen many individuals and couples either in private practice, Relate Centre or through Employee Assistance Programme (EAP). I help clients to make positive and informed choices for themselves at difficult times in their lives. I have a Master’s Degree in Relationship Therapy (Distinction) and full membership with British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I also attend regular psychotherapy workshops, present papers at conferences and keep up-to-date with the latest research. LATEST: CORONAVIRUS ANXIETY Following the most recent government guidelines about coronavirus advising social distancing, I am now offering phone and online sessions. Online counselling is a convenient and confidential platform that can enable people to have a safe space to share their concerns and fears from their own home. With the increasing media coverage of the COVID-19 coronavirus, we know all too well the emotional, financial and physical impact this pandemic is having on all of us. During these challenging times it can feel overwhelming, and you may wonder how you are going to look after yourself in the months ahead. It can be difficult to maintain our mental health and wellbeing when coping with so much uncertainty and turmoil at home and at work. Whether you're social distancing or self-isolating you may be feeling anxious or stressed during this time, and that's completely normal. There are simple steps you can take to look after your mental health and wellbeing. Here are some selfcare tips:

• Limit your exposure to social media if you find it is heightening your anxiety
• Make sure you are getting your news from trusted sources, limit it to once a day
• Think self-care: You may find yourself working longer hours or more shifts so take care of your physical health as best you can.
• Stay connected to family and friends by phone, email or video calls
• Be kind to yourself
• Follow a daily structure/routine
• Allow yourself time to relax, rest and sleep

If you are still experiencing new levels of distress, worry or anxiety as a result of what’s happening right now, know that help is available. Please feel free to contact me. Similarly if you know somebody in need of counselling please share this with them. RELAXATION SESSIONS In addition to counselling sessions, I have recently started to support my clients with 30min guided relaxation via Zoom at 9pm on Fridays. There are lots of ways to relax and reduce anxiety. Some ways are designed to relax our mind and some to relax our body. The mind and body are fundamentally connected; relaxation methods work on both the mind and the body. By relaxing mind and body, we reduce stress and support the body's immune system which is very important for fighting disease and keeping us healthy. I combine mindfulness, guided imaginary, relaxation and light psychotherapeutic insights. This is a gentle connection between therapy and yoga which I have been practicing for over 20 year. To do these weekly sessions you need a peaceful space to lay down and listen via Zoom. The day and time are chosen to coincide with the end of the week and it is late enough in the evening to help you wind down. After the session you will be ready for a good restful sleep. Payment is by donation between £5-£10. NHS staff and keyworkers are welcome to join for free. Please let me know if you are interested so I can add you to the Zoom invitation list.