‘I myself, am made entirely of flaws, stitched together with good intentions’ – Augusten Burroughs
Thank you for taking the time to read this far and know a little about me.
Life has taken me on quite a journey. I am currently based in Bridgend, South Wales where I offer online and phone counselling. I am originally from South Africa and trained as a commercial pilot, but along the way I discovered a different kind of calling. This one centred around people rather than planes. That path led me, together with my wife, to volunteer overseas, working in cross-cultural environments with young people and children at risk. We helped set up youth clubs, built lasting friendships, and even learned some Hindi. These experiences challenged me and opened my heart to different cultures and the power of genuine human connection. It taught me valuable lessons about how to accept a multitude of people and also to recognise those things that unite as as humans.
After returning to the UK, I began working in a prison in Bridgend, South Wales. It was there that my passion for counselling truly took hold. I’ve always been someone who asks deeper questions of life, seeking to understand the “why” behind people’s choices and challenges. Working with people from all walks of life in such a complex environment taught me the importance of empathy, respect, and a non-judgemental approach.
I value learning and continually look for opportunities for continuous personal development (CPD) to improve my knowledge and way of working. Some of the qualifications which are explained more elsewhere on my website are:
- Qualified Therapeutic Counsellor
- Over 10 years of working with mental health
- Qualified to use Motivational Interviewing which is a specialised way of supporting people with problematic addictions
- I ran and qualified to run addiction support groups
- I delivered courses in the prison to reduce re-offending
- In my current role I train staff on how to support individuals with complex mental health needs and trauma
Above all, I believe in creating a safe, supportive space where people feel truly heard and empowered to make meaningful changes in their lives. My work isn’t just a profession, it’s the culmination of all the places I’ve been, the people I’ve met, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way.
