My Journey into Therapy

Why I Became a Therapist

I have witnessed clients turn their lives around, find a new way of being, build and strengthen relationships, and start to live again. Being part of these processes of healing and development is rewarding and the main reason I keep counselling and coaching.

I have been helping people in distress for 35 years, starting with voluntary work in London for an organisation called Release. I worked in business for 27 years and understand the stresses and strains of work environments, which gives me unique insight into workplace mental health challenges.

Over ten years ago, I trained as a coach and then a counsellor. I have worked for Mind and a Sixth Form College, where I gained significant skills and insights into many mental health conditions and the challenges facing young adults. This is now the 7th year of running my own private practice in Newbury.

My Approach and Services

The MyHill2Climb Approach

Developing a New Way of Working

Counselling is about reflection, and I needed to take stock and reflect on the problems I witness in the Newbury area and what I hear in the therapy room. This led me to develop the MyHill2Climb programme - a name actually suggested by my son.

Using hills as a metaphor for our challenges allows us to describe and visualise them in a powerful way. There is clear evidence that metaphor is effective in mental health work. MyHill2Climb brings together evidence-based approaches tailored to your own challenges, journey, and recovery.

Flexible, Person-Centred Support

I offer flexibility in how we work together - different session frequencies, outdoor therapy, online therapy (once we've established our relationship), and One Small Step - local social anxiety community support sessions. Each programme is co-created with you while staying aligned to evidence-based approaches.

Areas of Expertise

During my time as a therapist, I have developed approaches that address common struggles:

• Social Anxiety - helping those feeling scared, lonely and isolated 

• General Anxiety & Depression - moving from surviving to thriving

• Trauma - addressing terrible and repeating memories that affect daily life 

• Grief & Loss - supporting people through difficult life changes 

• Life Coaching - helping with big decisions, moving away from feeling stuck, finding new purpose

My Practice

I have my own room in Park Street, central Newbury. This calming location offers flexibility with both daytime and evening appointments. The central location and flexible approach also helps me keep therapy costs accessible.

My Commitment to You

An Honest, Collaborative Approach

I will be very open with you from our first conversation. If I believe there are other approaches better suited to your needs, I will signpost you to them. If I believe I can help, I will work with you to develop a programme that fits your specific situation and goals.

What drives my work is the genuine belief that healing and growth are possible for everyone. I've seen firsthand how the right support, at the right time, can help people move from feeling stuck to discovering new possibilities for their lives.

My approach combines decades of life experience, formal training, and a deep understanding of both workplace pressures and personal challenges. Whether you're seeking therapy for mental health concerns or coaching for personal development, I'm here to support your journey at your own pace.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Contact me if you have any questions or would like a free consultation. I'm here to help you understand how we might work together to support your wellbeing and growth.