Young person & adult psychotherapist
Specialising in therapy for young people & families
About Me
Hi, I'm Nicki and my career in mental health began after suffering a family tragedy. I hope that my story conveys how my dedication is fuelled by a deeply personal journey and a professional vision.
In 2017, my world shattered when I received the devastating news that my 14-year-old daughter, Megan, had taken her own life. There are no words to convey the profound grief and emptiness that engulfed me in that moment.
Life, as I knew it, ceased to exist.
In the wake of this unimaginable tragedy, I faced a pivotal choice: to let Megan's death destroy me or to allow it to define me. I chose the latter. Making a solemn vow to honor Megan's memory, I decided to channel my pain into a force for good.
In 2017, Megan's Starr was born—a youth mental health charity rooted in the very county Megan called home, Pembrokeshire. What began as a modest signposting foundation has evolved into a registered charity, providing critical mental health support to young people and parents.
Over the past seven years, Megan's Starr has grown, having facilitated over 1300 hours of invaluable mental health support in the last 2 years alone. This support has undoubtedly made a difference in countless lives. This journey has been about more than just saving lives; it's about keeping families together, offering solace, and fostering hope in the midst of darkness.
Through Megan's Starr, I've turned personal tragedy into a driving force for positive change. It's my personal heartfelt mission to ensure that no young person or parent faces the challenges of mental health alone, and I want to use my professional qualifications and personal experience to support young people & parents.
Together, we can navigate the complexities of mental well-being, providing a beacon of light for those in need.
Thank you for joining me on this journey of resilience, healing, and hope.
My Experience
Following the loss of my 14-year-old daughter to suicide, and spearheading the ITV 'Be Kind' Campaign in 2017, I transformed my grief into a platform that raises awareness, cultivates resilience, and extends support to young individuals navigating mental health challenges. I frequently engage in talks, presentations, and workshops on bullying and mental health, leveraging both my professional insights and personal experiences to connect and interact with audiences.
Completing a BSc (Hons) in Psychology from the University of Essex Online and engaging in various CPD courses centered on mental health and well-being, I've fortified my knowledge and honed a critical thinking approach crucial for addressing this complex issue.
My commitment to Megan's Starr and the well-being of young people has garnered accolades, including the Volunteer of the Year at the prestigious Welsh Charity Awards 2023 and the esteemed Alan Jenkins Memorial Award 2023 in partnership with the University of Essex.
Additionally, I'm humbled to be a multi-award recipient at the Health & Care Awards (2021-2023) and honored with the PAVS Awards and Pembs Youth Awards, as well as gaining the title of Judge at the infamous DIANA Awards, named in memory of HRH Princess Diana.
Passionate, dedicated, and collaborative, I am resolute in my mission to advocate for mental health awareness, champion robust support systems, and effect positive change in the lives of young individuals.
I am eager to network, engage, and collaborate with professionals and organisations sharing a vision of a world where mental health challenges are met with empathy, understanding, and effective interventions.
My Qualifications
- Cert HE Psychology - University of Essex
- BSc (Hons) Psychology - University of Essex
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy CPD
- Advanced Cognitive Behavioural Therapy CPD
- Mental Health & Young People CPD
- Advanced Mental Health Counselling CPD
- Counselling Skills CPD
- Advanced Counselling Skills CPD
- Emotional Awareness in Children CPD
- SEN & Mental Health CPD
- ADHD Awareness CPD
- Autism Awareness CPD
- Anxiety Awareness in Children CPD
- Depression in Childhood CPD
- Safeguarding CPD
- Body Image & Mental Health in Young People
- LGBTQ+ Awareness CPD
Member of British Psychological Society (BPS) : This code, which has been produced by the Ethics Committee of the British Psychological Society, focusses on four primary ethical principles:
- respect
- competence
- responsibility
- integrity
Each of these principles is described by a statement of key values and accompanied by a set of standards which lay out the precise forms of ethical conduct and behaviour which The British Psychological Society expects of its members.
I am fully insured and a member of Psychology Today.
My charitable work
My Charity Work
To learn more about Megan's Starr & the work that we do, please visit www.megansstarr.com
You can also see our socials
Facebook page - facebook.com/megansstarr
TikTok - Megansstarr1011
Meet Nicola Harteveld Psychotherapy
Areas covered
Areas covered
Areas covered
Abuse
ADHD
Anger Management
Antisocial Personality
Anxiety
Asperger's Syndrome
Attachment Disorder
Autism
Behavioural Issues
Bereavement
Divorce & family seperation
Internet Addiction
Parenting
Peer Relationships
Relationship Issues
School Issues
Self Esteem
Social Anxiety
Self-Harming
Seperation Anxiety
Stress
Suicidal Ideation
Teen Violence
Abuse
ADHD
Anger Management
Antisocial Personality
Anxiety
Asperger's Syndrome
Attachment Disorder
Autism
Behavioural Issues
Bereavement
Divorce & family seperation
Internet Addiction
Parenting
Peer Relationships
Relationship Issues
School Issues
Self Esteem
Social Anxiety
Self-Harming
Seperation Anxiety
Stress
Suicidal Ideation
Teen Violence
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
Mental Health Impulse Control Disorders
Mood Disorders
Sexuality
LGBTQ+
My Approach
Areas covered
Areas covered
In addressing youth mental health, I advocate for an approach rooted in calmness and non-judgmental support. Adolescence can be a tumultuous time, filled with various challenges and uncertainties. Therefore, it's crucial to create a safe and nurturing space where young individuals feel empowered to express themselves without fear of cond
In addressing youth mental health, I advocate for an approach rooted in calmness and non-judgmental support. Adolescence can be a tumultuous time, filled with various challenges and uncertainties. Therefore, it's crucial to create a safe and nurturing space where young individuals feel empowered to express themselves without fear of condemnation or criticism. By maintaining a calm demeanor and offering unwavering acceptance, I strive to build trust and rapport with my young clients, fostering an environment where they feel heard, understood, and validated. This approach encourages open communication and allows for the exploration of thoughts, feelings, and experiences without the burden of judgment. Through this empathetic and non-judgmental approach, I aim to empower youth to navigate their mental health journey with resilience, self-compassion, and a sense of ownership.
My Services
Areas covered
My Services
I specialise in the well-being of young individuals up to the age of 25, and parents who are struggling navigating the complexities around parenting.
I extend a warm and inviting space, providing the option for face-to-face appointments for those who thrive in direct personal interaction. Alternatively, recognising the unique needs of ea
I specialise in the well-being of young individuals up to the age of 25, and parents who are struggling navigating the complexities around parenting.
I extend a warm and inviting space, providing the option for face-to-face appointments for those who thrive in direct personal interaction. Alternatively, recognising the unique needs of each individual, I also offer the flexibility of online or telephone sessions. This approach is tailored to accommodate those who may find it challenging to engage in person or prefer the comfort of familiar surroundings.
Embark on a journey towards mental health and growth with me, where supportive and personalised therapeutic experiences await, whether in the comforting atmosphere of face-to-face interactions or the convenience of virtual connection.
Contact me now for an initial free consultation.