About Me
I was born and bred in Brighton and lived there almost all my life.
For many years during my earlier adult life, I struggled with anxiety, depression and low self-worth. This led me down a destructive path towards problem drinking, alcoholism, drug use and gambling. These difficult and sometimes dark times, but with the help of counselling and specialist addiction services, I finally managed to overcame my anxiety, depression and lack of self-worth. I am also over nine years clean and sober.
Does my past affect me now?
My past troubles are now in the past where they belong. The trauma, anxiety and depression that I suffered from have been explored, understood and dealt with. I have learned why I used to think and feel the way I did and – with help – I have been able to change that. I now have a way of living my life that means I can deal with the anxieties, fears, and ups and downs before they grow too big. I no longer feel the need to escape from reality or to seek a ‘fix’ to escape my feelings. Certainly I have absolutely no desire to return the madness, unhappiness and chaos that alcoholism and other addictions bring with them.
Becoming a Counsellor
My life experience, combined with a natural desire to help others, meant that after dealing with my own mental health and addiction problems I chose to work within mental health, homelessness and addiction services whilst I studied to become a BACP Registered Counsellor.
I now work full time as a counsellor/therapist, providing counselling to people with a wide range of issues. I can help you with generalised anxiety, depression, drug use, problem drinking, alcoholism, past abuse, trauma and a range of other issues.
I can honestly say that I believe that my path in life has led me here for a reason. This is the work I was always meant to end up doing. I get genuine pleasure from helping others to overcome their problems and, in turn, my own feelings of wellbeing and self-belief are enhanced.
What about when I am not working?
Come rain or shine you may catch me running along Brighton seafront. I have completed the Brighton half-marathon in aid of a local charity that provides support for mental health and homelessness. I find running not only keeps me in shape, but settles my mind. For excitement I join my wife in following Brighton and Hove Albion (The Seagulls), but also enjoy relaxing on my own at the Sussex County Cricket Club during the summer months when I have time. Otherwise, we like films and theatre, reading a good book, or a walk in the countryside or by the sea.
As you can see, I still like to escape from time to time, but now it is in a more healthy and enjoyable way.
How do you make a start?
Whatever it is that is troubling you, I can help. I have the training and the experience that help me to genuinely understand. Take the next step and contact me to arrange a low cost initial session to find out if I am the right counsellor for you.
You can call or text me on 07541 553614 or CLICK HERE to email me.
