What's My Approach to Therapy?
Why I Became a Therapist & How I Can Support You
Life has a way of teaching us what really matters—often through challenges that shape who we are and how we see the world. My own path to becoming a therapist wasn’t straight or simple, but every step brought me closer to understanding the profound power of human connection in healing.
Growing up in Scotland with a mother who struggled with alcoholism, I learned early how deeply pain can affect a family—but also how kindness and understanding can light the way forward. Later, when I nearly lost my life to COVID-19, I realized how fragile and precious our time is. It was a turning point—a moment that made me ask: How can I use my experiences to help others?
My life has deepened my understanding and warm acceptance, my appreciation for neurodiversity, and my belief that everyone deserves to be met exactly where they are. And when I lost both of my parents, counselling was my anchor. It didn’t just help me grieve—it helped me rebuild. That experience is why I believe so deeply in therapy’s power to heal.
How I Work
My approach is warm, gentle, and deeply human. I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all therapy—your story is unique, and so is the way we’ll work together. I draw from psychodynamic, humanistic, and cognitive-behavioural approaches, supporting a shared, pluralistic, curiosity-driven approach, which means we might explore how past experiences shape your present, while also focusing on practical steps to help you feel better now.
Whether you’re dealing with grief, anxiety, addiction, or the lingering effects of a difficult childhood, my goal is to create a safe space where you can unpack what’s weighing on you—without judgment, without pressure, and at your own pace. I’ll listen closely, ask thoughtful questions, and gently challenge you when it’s helpful. And yes, there might even be moments of laughter—because healing doesn’t always have to be heavy.
What You Can Expect
A real, human connection – No clinical detachment, no “expert” persona—just me, as I am, listening deeply to you. A warm Scottish accent.
Gentle curiosity – We’ll explore your thoughts and feelings together, like companions on a journey.
Practical support – While we may look at the past, we’ll also focus on what you need right now to feel better.
Respect for your pace – Some days, you might want to dig deep. Other days, you might just need to breathe. Both are okay.
Who I Work With
I specialise in supporting people who are:
Navigating grief, loss, or life transitions
Living with anxiety, depression, stress and self-defeating behaviours
Affected by addiction (their own or a loved one’s)
Supporting neurodivergent children or exploring their own neurodiversity
Healing from childhood wounds or family struggles
The Oxford Difference in Your Therapy
My postgraduate training at the University of Oxford in Psychodynamic Counselling brings a unique perspective to our work together. Oxford's rigorous program gave me more than qualifications - it provided:
Deep theoretical understanding: We'll explore how early experiences shape current patterns, but always at your pace
Sophisticated listening skills: I'm trained to hear what's being said - and what might be harder to express
Evidence-based approaches: Your therapy will combine time-tested methods with what works for you personally
Deep thinking: We'll examine your challenges from multiple angles to find the most helpful perspectives
What This Means For You
When we work together, you benefit from:
Exceptional Care - My Oxford training means you're getting support informed by world-class research and clinical wisdom
Tailored Approach - We'll blend psychodynamic depth with practical strategies from CBT and humanistic therapies
Nuanced Understanding - Of how past experiences, unconscious processes and current challenges interact in your life
Rigorous Standards - The same academic excellence Oxford is known for applied to your personal growth
How I Can Help
Whether you're struggling with:
Anxiety or depression
Grief and loss
Addiction (your own or a loved one's)
Neurodiversity-related challenges
Climate anxiety
Relationship issues
...I offer a safe space where you'll be heard without judgment. My approach is warm, thoughtful, and grounded in both cutting-edge theory and real-world experience.
Let’s Begin
If you’re reading this, you’ve already taken a brave step—just by considering help. I offer a free, no-pressure conversation to see if we might be a good fit. You don’t have to face this alone.
"We don’t have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to." — Brené Brown
With warmth,
Jim
As a believer in lifelong learning, I am also presently undertaking a Professional Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling Practice with consequent BACP accreditation.