We’re really fortunate to have grown the therapeutic team to the size it is; our therapists are the heartbeat of the business, and as it’s in the room where the magic really happens
As he’s recently joined the team, we caught with Steve, who alongside being a hugely kind and empathetic human being specialises in areas such as addiction, attachment, and relationships.
Hey Steve, tell us a bit about your background?
I have worked in mental health for around 30 years, initially working with people experiencing homelessness and then progressing to train as a therapist. I have a degree in Psychology and a masters degree in Addiction Psychology and Counselling, and have attended courses in attachment narrative therapy and philosophy and psychotherapy. I work with an attachment focus to explore how early relationships affect our lives today.
What areas do you specialise in?
I am a specialist in addictions of all kinds both substances and behaviours. I also specialise in repeated behaviours in relationships and understanding how these may develop. I enjoy working with those who feel lost in their lives and struggle with their identity/sense of self.
Why do you specialise in these areas?
I do have a history of addiction and recovery myself, and have an interest in how to support people in exploring and challenging behaviours that destroy lives. I believe that how we relate to the world and relationships we engage in both restrict us but also inform us of the deep work that is required to find hope for the future.
Why did you choose to become a therapist?
I enjoy and am curious about how we become as we are. Therapy allows us the opportunity to reflect on the bigger questions in life.
What’s your favourite part of being a therapist?
I love the exploration of the thoughts and feelings that led clients to the therapy room. I like listening to the words they use to describe their experience.
…and your least favourite part?
I dislike how people suggest that therapy is something that can be ‘given’ to people to fix problems, especially by courts and friends/family of clients. Therapy is a brave and fearless exploration of the emotional self, and requires high levels of engagement from the individual receiving treatment. It cannot be ‘done’ to them.
If someone was on the fence about therapy, what would you say to them?
It is normal to struggle with how we relate to the world and manage our emotions, and admitting this struggle is the first step towards finding new ways of living. Give yourself a chance. Developing self-awareness is a guide towards contentment and joy. That’s what therapy can offer.
When you’re not being a therapist, what do you do to relax?
I like to read in coffee shops, let loose at punk gigs (especially 80s US punk), go for dinner with friends, and I love attending silent retreats. I believe there is great wisdom in silence.
