Military & Service Connections

With 24 years of dedicated service as a mental health nurse in the Royal Navy, I bring a deep understanding of the complexities and challenges faced by military personnel. During my time working as the Defence Addictions Specialist, I provided crucial support and guidance to service members facing mental health challenges, ensuring they received the care they deserved. As a veteran, I am deeply committed to advocating for the mental health needs of military and emergency service members and veterans, drawing upon my extensive background to offer compassionate and effective care.

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My Qualifications​

Diploma in Mental Health Nursing University of Birmingham

BSc (Hons) Health Science in Addiction Studies, University of Leeds

PGDip CBT, University of Central Lancashire

EMDR Training Levels 1 – 3,  EMDR Europe

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Additional Clinical Training

Cognitive Processing Therapy

Motivational Interviewing 

Introduction to CBT, Oxford Cognitive Therapy Centre

Feeling State Addiction Protocol, EMDR

Mental Health First Aid

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My Professional Accreditations​

Registered Nurse - Mental Health NMC

EMDR UK Trained Practitioner Accreditation - in progress

CPT Provider

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Additional Information

Enhanced DBS Adults and Child​

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My Experience

My experience spans a 24 year career within the Defence Mental Health Services, working with a varied client group in mental health and primary care service. I have specialised in providing Occupational Mental Health assessments and treatment to a variety of client groups both in person and via telemedicine. I  have experience in treating a wide range of mental health problems and psychological difficulties including Depression, Anxiety and PTSD. I was also the Defence Addiction Specialist for Scotland and have a vast experience in working with individuals who use substances and alcohol. 

 

I have provided onsite psychological support for a variety of TV programmes and I provide Emotional Coping Skills training to the NHS and other organisations​​

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My Commitment to You​

I am an autonomous, courteous practitioner who is hardworking, focused, and dynamic. I am a motivated individual who aspires to provide the highest possible care for my clients by using evidence base practice and adhering to NICE Guidelines and procedures.

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Please contact Optimism if you would like a copy of my full Bio.