40 Years on the Frontline, Now in Your Corner
Most people know me as a therapist, but my understanding of human nature wasn't formed in a classroom alone. It was built over four decades serving as a Senior Police Officer and a Registered Nurse. Throughout my career, I have operated at the intersection of crisis and trauma. I have seen the "aftermath" of life’s hardest moments from the frontline.
Why I Work Differently: I know that for many, walking into a therapy room feels like a risk. You might worry about being judged, or that a therapist won't "get" the world you live in. My approach is honest, direct, and grounded in reality. I don’t use "fluffy" jargon. Because of my background in the police and nursing, I am comfortable sitting in the dark corners of human experience.
Clinical Expertise & Advocacy: While my experience is my foundation, my practice is rooted in modern, evidence-based science. As a member of the UK Psychological Trauma Society, I stay at the forefront of trauma recovery research. I am also a specialist volunteer for First Step, one of only five charities in the UK dedicated to male survivors of sexualized trauma.
My Philosophy: I use a pluralistic approach, tailoring my tools—whether it’s Trauma-Informed CBT, Compassion Focused Therapy, or Psychodynamic work—to fit your specific needs. I’ve spent 40 years protecting and caring for the public. Today, my mission is helping you move past "surviving" so you can actually start living.
Recognise. Understand. Change.
Holistic psychotherapy
Everyone is unique and have their own challenges and opportunities. As a psychotherapist, I will support you sensitively and expertly.
Trauma centred
Having amassed a wealth of experience working with individuals who have faced trauma through my previous occupations, I have developed considerable understanding of the complexities involved in trauma therapy. My own healing journey has led me to undertake specialist courses tailored specifically to support clients navigating the often challenging repercussions of trauma, including Post Traumatic Stress (PTS), Complex-PTS (CPTS), developmental and vicarious trauma. This educational foundation, coupled with my lived experience, equips me to create a safe and empathetic therapeutic environment where clients can heal, regain control, and work towards a healthier future. I have been a member of the UK Psychological Trauma Society (UKPTS) since 2022 and the European Society for Stress Studies (ESTSS) since 2025. I structure my approach on UKPTS best practice guidance which you can find on their website. The report is called 'Guidelines for the treatment and planning of services for complex post-traumatic stress disorder in adults'.
I also follow NICE guidelines when relevant. I have a level two qualification in Trauma Focused CBT from the Association of Psychological Therapies. I work weekly for First Step a charity providing support to male survivors of sexualised trauma.
LGBTQI affirmative
My passion for inclusivity and own lived experience informs my therapeutic approach, allowing me to provide empathetic support that acknowledges the unique challenges faced by individuals within the LGBTQI community. I strive to create a safe space where clients can explore their identities, experiences, and emotions without fear of judgement, ensuring that their voices are heard and validated throughout the therapeutic process.
My philosophy
Individuality
I respect and value the uniqueness of each person and therefore adapt my therapy to your individual needs.
Responsibility
I take my responsibility as a psychotherapist seriously and am committed to providing you with the support and guidance you need.
Appreciation
I value each person as an individual and recognise your strengths and weaknesses in order to offer you a supportive and respectful therapy.
Competence
With my experience and in-depth training in psychotherapy, I am competent and qualified to offer you the support and guidance you need.
Structure
I structure our therapy sessions clearly and transparently to ensure that we can achieve your therapy goals together and measure your progress.
Transparency
I am transparent in my work and communicate openly and honestly with you about your progress, challenges and goals to ensure that you are always informed and involved.
Curriculum Vitae
2026
Private practice continues.
I continue to volunteer with the charity First Step Leicester where I work with the male victim survivors of sexualised trauma.
Certificate in Trauma and PTSD - January 2026.
February 2026 - Start at the National Centre for the Prevention of Violence against Woman and Girls and Public Protection (NCVPP) as a specialsit Practice Adviser for Rape and Serious Sexual Offences (RASSO).
Continue as Lay Adviser to the Royal College of GPs Exam Board.
2025
I am a psychotherapist running my own private practice, with a specialised focus supporting those dealing with various forms of trauma, be that as victim survivors or vicariously through work. I continue to work with Cruse Bereavement and volunteer with the charity First Step Leicester where I work with the male victim survivors of sexualised trauma.
I qualified with a Professional Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy and I am a registered member of the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS). I am also a member of the UK Psychological Trauma Society (UKPTS) and the European Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ESTSS).
I have attended additional training sessions on working with LGBTQIA+ and Neurodiverse clients and a one day course on an introduction to working with addictions.
I have also undertaken a level 2 Trauma-Focused CBT, for all ages course provided by The Association for Psychological Therapies - Sep 2025 which Expires Sep 2028 - Credential ID 279803290. I have attended CPD courses provided by UKPTS on Complex PTSD and Suicide and Self Harm in Young People. I have a certificate in Hypnotherapy for Trauma and PTSD. I have attended the Beech Trauma Academy Module 1 on the Three Phases of Trauma in December 2025.
2023-2025
Engaged in professional placements as a student psychotherapist with KidsAid Northampton and Cruse Bereavement. In addition to this, I worked as a Senior Lecturer at The Open University. Obtained a Diploma in Counselling Theory and Practice issued by the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS).
Undertook placements with KidsAid Northampton working with children in a primary school setting. Worked with Cruse Bereavement.
2021-2023
Training as a counsellor and hypnotherapist, while concurrently working as Head of Investigations at the Nursing and Midwifery Council. Qualified as a hypnotherapist.
2012 - 2021
Head of the Regional Liaison Service at the General Medical Council (GMC).
1989-2012
Police Officer retiring as a Chief Superintendent. Masters Degree in Police Management.
1985-1989
Qualified as a Registered General Nurse (RGN) and worked in London based hospitals.
Registrations and insurance
Here are details of my professional registrations and insurance. Individual registration and policy numbers can be found in the legal notice section of this website.
National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society
The National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS) is a prominent organisation in the UK dedicated to promoting the highest standards of practice in counselling and psychotherapy. It serves as a vital resource for professionals within the field, providing support, guidance, and accreditation to practitioners. The NCPS aims to ensure that members adhere to ethical guidelines and maintain continuous professional development, thereby enhancing the quality of care provided to clients.
National Hypnotherapy Society
The National Hypnotherapy Society is a professional body dedicated to promoting the practice of hypnotherapy in the context of psychotherapy. It serves to ensure high standards of practice and ethical conduct among its members, providing resources and support for both practitioners and clients. The society offers training and accreditation for hypnotherapists, helping to advance their skills and knowledge in therapeutic techniques.
Information commissioner
Being registered with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) demonstrates our commitment to safeguarding client data and maintaining confidentiality. When therapists are ICO registered, clients can have greater confidence that their personal information is handled in compliance with data protection laws. This registration ensures that therapists follow best practices for data management, which not only protects client privacy but also promotes transparency in how their information is used.
Professional indemnity
Professional indemnity insurance benefits clients by ensuring their therapist is covered in the event of any claims related to professional negligence or malpractice. This insurance assures clients that their therapist has taken steps to protect themselves financially, which can enhance trust and confidence in the therapeutic relationship. In the unlikely event of a dispute, clients can feel secure knowing there is a formal process to address any grievances.
Let's work together on your future.
If you are ready to take the first step in a new direction, get in touch with me.
I will support you in gaining more clarity about yourself, understanding your feelings and needs better and developing new paths for your life situation.