With many years of experience as a nurse in the NHS, I’ve seen first-hand the importance of caring for mental as well as physical health. My transition into counselling felt like a natural extension of my nursing career, as I became increasingly drawn to the relational, emotional, and sometimes spiritual aspects of care.

Both professions have deeply enriched me, and through supporting others, I’ve come to learn a great deal about myself as well.

Of course, everyone is different, but some of us face more difficult challenges than others. For instance, growing up as an introverted, sensitive gay child in a society that was often hostile and homophobic had a profound impact on my self-esteem and sense of belonging. These are some of the issues I’ve explored and worked to heal through my own therapeutic journey—and they inform the empathy and understanding I bring to my work.

I’m also a keen reader and find bibliotherapy—the use of literature as a tool for healing and insight—to be a valuable and often inspiring complement to therapeutic work.

Experience

• Low-cost counselling services in London (in-person and online)

• Suicide prevention service

• Bereavement support (current role, North London)

• Private practice with adult clients