My most valuable qualification is that I am a genuine person. I have lived a life just like anyone else and have experienced trauma and fear in my own life; so I know what it is like to look despair in the eyes and still stand. During that time in my own journey, I learnt how to win and I have determined that I will pass this knowledge on to others. Those experiences in my life form part of the reason and motivation behind the following (more formal) work experiences and qualifications:

Since 2001 I have worked as a professional and qualified counsellor with individuals and groups in a variety of NHS, charitable, NHS, and private settings, including:

• The Medical Foundation
• NHS Rampton High-Security Mental Health Hospital/Prison
• Victoria University Manchester, ManCAT College, Salford College
• LGF, Hearing Voices Network and Family Contact Line

My professional qualifications are:

• Diploma in Casework Supervision, PCCS, Manchester, 2005
• Diploma in Counselling, ManCAT, Manchester, 2002
• PGCE (HE) Experiential Learning, MMU, Manchester, 2003
• MA (Res) Emotional Experiences and Coloured Light, MMU, Manchester, 2003
• BA (Hons) Interactive Arts, MMU, Manchester, 1997