Carmen was born in Colombia and came to the UK in 1990, first living in London, then in Bristol, and finally in Dursley. She first worked in the University’s Disability Service before joining the Student Counselling Service as both a Counsellor and a clinical lead/manager.

Carmen was very creative; this often showed in the leaving gifts she made for her colleagues in the service, for example, a personal wall hanging or arranging a memory box full of photos for colleagues. Carmen would often share beautiful seasonal poems on the staff notice board that had been thoughtfully chosen for a particular moment in the academic year. These welcome reminders connected the team back to nature, helping us to pause from the busyness of the day.

Carmen was a very skilled counsellor, working with probably thousands of students during her time at Bristol. She passionately cared for students she worked with and helped many students through difficult times. She had the skill of being able to be very emotionally attuned to people she worked with. She was able to create a deep empathic connection with students and had a presence that helped people feel relaxed, supported and heard.

She was also fundamental in developing the groups and workshop programme in the service. This led to students being brought together, some of whom were previously isolated. Students often later shared how a group experience helped them make new connections and reduce stigma around their mental health difficulties.

Carmen was a manager and clinical lead in the service for several years before returning to a counselling role. She was highly regarded by colleagues because of her extensive experience in working with people. Many of us turned to her for advice and support in our clinical work.

Carmen’s funeral service was held at Westerleigh Crematorium and was well attended by her colleagues, family and friends. At the funeral a poem by Carmen was read and stories and memories were shared. The Counselling Service in time will be arranging a commemoration for Carmen. She will be greatly missed by all of her colleagues in the service and the memory of her will stay with us. Carmen is survived by her husband Nick.