Abigail Bobb-Semple

Counselling and Psychotherapy

1. Tell us about yourself.
I completed a BA Hons (Top-Up) in Counselling & Psychotherapy at ARU and graduated with a first-class degree in 2021.  

After graduating from ARU, I went on to receive a distinction in an MA in Counselling & Psychotherapy practice and have also gained a certificate in couples and relationship therapy.

I work in private practice as a therapeutic counsellor/psychotherapist, mainly in the West Essex and East Hertfordshire area and am also a placement co-ordinator for a counselling agency. As a therapist I support a few organisations in and around the London area, as needed.

I work with the charity Red Kite, based in Hertfordshire. We support survivors of sexual violence, facilitating group work and offering one-to-one therapy sessions.

I write poetry, some of which has been published, and is being used to support survivors of trauma.

I live with my family in Essex, and I am a grandmother of three. In addition to writing poetry, I love to walk, listen to music, dance, and watch athletics, netball and football (in that order!).

2. What is your fondest memory of Anglia Ruskin University?
Before COVID-19 changed the landscape, I really enjoyed being with our lecturers and peers in-person, learning, exploring, gaining insight, laughing (sometimes crying!) and developing together. It was just a wonderful time, and I will continue to cherish those memories!

3. What has been your favourite job?
I would say my current role as a therapeutic counsellor/psychotherapist is my favourite. I love the versatility and autonomy it gives me. I can direct my support, time and energy to whatever feels most positive.

4. In one word, how would you describe Anglia Ruskin University? 
Transformative.

5. How did your time at ARU help you?
It gave me the confidence to step out of what was comfortable, helping me to gain a deeper sense of self, and my potential. For me, being there was a dream fulfilled, in which I developed a greater understanding and passion for my profession, and for academic and experiential learning. It exposed me to a world that has widened the vision and possibilities for myself and for those I encounter, both personally and professionally. My time at ARU left me with a desire to gain more insight in the field of counselling and psychotherapy, (especially around research), hence the decision to undertake the MA.

6. What did you love about your chosen course?
The course built solidly upon my previous learning. I found it insightful, interesting, exciting, and healthily challenging.

7. What advice would you give to current students as they’re preparing to graduate?
Don’t be afraid to dream, don’t be afraid to pivot if something is not working for you, and, if you love it, don’t be afraid to dive in! Remind yourself of your journey to date, and celebrate!

8. What do you know now that you wish you had known whilst studying?
I wish I had been more equipped for the journey than I believed at the time. Had I known this, perhaps I would have relaxed a little more!

9. Who was the biggest influence on your career? 
I would say my wonderful clinical supervisor. She taught me so much about human-to-human connection, and the potential power of the therapeutic relationship.

10. What advice would you give your younger self?
I would tell her that she is enough, just as she is, and I would encourage her to think differently and believe it!

11. Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know.;
In a past life, I made many a wedding cake, and novelty cake, including all the icing, piping and fiddly bits!

12. What’s next?
I will continue to write poetry, develop private practice and work with charities. I have recently recited some of my poems in public for the first time, and I have already said,” yes” to future opportunities for such adventures, including possible Q&A sessions, so let's see how that unfolds!

I have agreed to participate in academic research on more than one occasion, and most recently have been interviewed by a PhD student. I view research as crucial so can see myself volunteering again!