I not only bring qualifications and training to the table, but something that cannot be taught— a deeply personal journey through addiction, 34 years of lived experience, trauma, and abstinent recovery since 2016.
My own recovery finally began in 2016, after multiple attempts and stays in rehabilitation centres. Since then, I’ve remained sober and active within a 12-step fellowship, serving at many levels—from making tea at Group level, to representing the London Area as a World Service Conference Delegate, internationally. This journey has not only transformed my life and personal growth but has given me a profound ability to connect with clients on a human level, with empathy, compassion, love, and understanding.
I believe that unconditional support—the kind that sees beyond the surface and into the soul of someone hurting—is vital in helping clients rebuild their lives. I offer that support because I’ve lived through the same pain, shame, and isolation that many of our clients’ experience. What makes me uniquely qualified is not just my training and education, but my capacity to relate. I’ve walked more than a mile in their shoes. I understand the importance of even the smallest interactions, and how deeply healing it can be to feel truly seen and heard.
Qualifications: Level 2 in Counselling Skills (TQUK, RQF) | Level 2 and European Qualifications Framework | Level 3 in Understanding Substance Misuse (CPCAB Certified – Recognised Substance Misuse Specialist) | Level 2 in Effective Customer Service (EDI and QCF Certified) | Level 3 FAA in Emergency First Aid At Work (RQF)
Field of Expertise: 34 years of lived experience in active addiction | Sustained abstinence and 12-step recovery since 2016 | Support work in an abstinent based homeless hostel from 2017 – 2019 | Support work in a complex needs service (harm reduction and minimisation) from 2019 – 2024
Years of Expertise: 9 Years