‘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 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.
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.
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. Working with people from all walks of life in such a complex environment taught me how to express empathy and show respect in a non-judgemental way.
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 and develop staff wellbeing and how to support individuals with complex mental health needs and trauma.
Above all, I believe in creating a space where people feel truly heard and empowered. 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.
