James is a Qualified Integrative Counsellor who since qualifying has devoted most of his working life assisting individuals to overcome their struggles with addiction.
James works from a holistic person-centred perspective and has worked within statutory services including the NHS and Social Services, as well as the Charity, Private sector, and in Private Practice. Having worked in a variety of settings both in the community and residential treatment, he has supported individuals at different points in their recovery journey, adapting his skills and experience to support individuals to identify and work towards achieving their recovery goals.
Recognising that there can be multiple reasons why people struggle with addiction and dependency, James feels that individuals can benefit greatly from a holistic approach that takes into consideration the issues that contribute towards their addictive behaviours and to safely explore alternative healthy coping strategies and resources that can support them throughout their recovery journey.
He has significant working experience of supporting individuals cope with stress and anxiety, feelings of low self-esteem, emotional regulation, grief/loss and conflict resolution. James has also worked as a group facilitator and trainer, in addiction and on subjects of Health and Wellbeing more generally.
James values the twelve-step process and recognise the important role peer support and fellowship can play, both in deepening understanding of addiction, and in providing additional help, support and guidance that can assist in the maintenance of a healthy recovery.