Cognitive Behavioural Therapist

Special Interests

Cognitive behavioural therapy with mood disorders, Anxiety disorders, Eating disorders, Psychosis, Anger, Somatic disorders, and Trauma

Education

• Diploma of Higher Education in Psychiatric Nursing, University of York (UK)
• Bachelor of Arts, Hons. (HBA), Forensic Nursing, Sheffield Hallam University (UK)
• Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy, University of Derby (UK)

Professional Registrations & Certifications

• Nursing & Midwifery Council (UK)
• College of Registered Psychiatric Nurses BC #07966
• Accredited member of the Canadian Association of Cognitive Behavioural Therapists

I took the long route to become a Psychotherapist. I initially trained and worked in many different areas of Psychiatric Nursing both in the UK and BC, but I was left feeling like I could do more for clients. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) was very appealing to me as it is so practical in that it aims towards reducing the obstacles that get in the way of living in the way that a person wants to. I find the idea that we all perceive the world differently to each other and that often our emotions are trying to protect us from what it is that we perceive as unmanageable in our world, really makes a lot of sense. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is backed up by a mountain of research that demonstrates it to be very effective in helping people to not avoid their distressing emotions and instead allow them to happen in a way that is manageable. In fact, my own personal experience is that this approach helped me to cope with my intense fear of public speaking to the point where I now give presentations and teach at least two to three times a week! I believe that this approach works well for many people and I always feel a great sense of fulfilment when therapy comes to an end for a person, when they are able to stop coming to see me and go out and live their lives. I look forward to being involved in your journey to understand and experience your emotions.

How did Scott begin the journey?

I joined Alongside You in 2015, because I was keen to continue to use the skills that I worked so hard to develop, to help people overcome mood, anxiety and other problems.

How can Scott help you?

My primary role is to make good connections with people that can lead to them doing cognitive behavioural therapy work together. The connection is important because the work is not always easy, but it is worth it. I rely on my great ability to develop good relationships with people where they can trust that I will hear what they want and need and then work towards those goals. Good listening skills, the ability to reflect on how I affect the therapy process and a thorough knowledge of cognitive behavioural therapy are also important.

The feeling of walking someone down the hall after their last session when I can see how different their life has become because of what they learned can’t be matched in my work life. That walk feels as light as air.

What is Scott like outside of work?

I love spending time with my wife and young daughter. It is a great way for me to relax. My daughter really brings me back to the important things in life. I also enjoy playing soccer (badly), going to the gym, and reading.

I always wanted to be the pilot of one of those really big planes in the Royal Air Force. I don’t really think I’m suited to military life though. Hence what would I be doing if I were not a therapist? I would be a presenter on Top Gear, the motoring show from the UK. A show where essentially you get to mess around with cars, come up with silly challenges and pretend that middle-aged men can still look cool.

Interested in hearing more from Scott?

You can read his blog posts here.