‘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. I hope that we get to speak soon.
Life has taken me on quite a journey. At times it is strange to think that it was me. 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.
I was always drawn to helping as I wanted to be a pilot for an air ambulance. This desire to help never died away and it led me on a path to volunteer overseas, working in cross-cultural environments with young people and children at risk. My wife and I helped set up youth clubs for charities. We met some exceptional people and those lasting friendships have taught me lessons that I continue to draw on. I even learned some Hindi.
After returning to the UK, I began working in a prison in Bridgend, South Wales. It was there that my passion for counselling and supporting people 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.
Alongside counselling, I also work within the Homelessness sector finding ways to build robust wellbeing structures. This is because as much as I believe we need to respond to our situations and make our own choices. I also want to see companies and systems operating with compassion and care.
I have thoroughly enjoyed working with people from all walks of life and in such complex environments. These experiences challenged me and opened my heart to different cultures, how our identity is formed 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.
Above all, I believe in creating a space where people feel truly heard and safe to explore their most painful areas. I don’t see people as issues but rather their ability to tap into their potential has been blocked 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 and the lessons I’ve learned along the way.
As you might tell, I value learning greatly and continually look for opportunities for continuous personal development (CPD) to improve my knowledge and way of working. Please feel free to look at my qualifications and experience.
