Ash Griffiths

So here's a very brief snap shot of who I am. I served in the Royal Marines and other elements of the Armed forces for ten years operationally around the globe. On leaving the Royal Marines, I was employed in both close protection and later the super yacht industry. Finally settling down, I was fortunate enough to pass the section to be employed in the UK as a Firefighter. This was a chance to put down roots and perhaps start a family without the constant lift and shift element. I am fully aware of the hardships that working away and serving personnel face, especially the emotional element of leaving loved ones and missing life. It is something that I respect and acknowledge the hardships of the loved ones left behind, sometimes to pick up the pieces.

Fast forward to today, I still work for a Fire & Rescue Service as a training manager with 20 years of operational experience. I teach and instruct a wide variety of personnel both with in the Fire & Rescue service and external. I specialise in Fire Behaviour and Road Traffic collisions Training.

Throughout my careers, there has always been a lack of descent mental health care. I have seen people let down by the systems and I hope that I can help or at least make a difference. I am currently developing a system of work within the Fire and Rescue that promotes and supports mental health within the UK emergency services. I retrained and self funded my studies to be where I am today. Turn 2 Counselling was set up to offer a different element to counselling and talking therapy. It is more of a hybrid therapy that can include elements of coaching. Every session is tailored to the individual . My background gives me a unique understanding of the emergency services and the armed forces. I understand the different languages and I can create a therapeutic relationship quickly. I believe that  serving personnel and veterans alike can feel forgotten and in some cases fearful of mental health and the stigma this still seems to hold. There is still a way to go and more can be done to help those struggling with trauma, life change and sense of loss and this is why I became a counsellor. 

Although Turn 2 was originally set to work with Armed forces and Emergency Services, it has grown to where it proudly is today. Turn 2 is for everybody and I have, and continue, to work with people from all kinds of different backgrounds and walks of life, from the successful high achieving to those struggling to make ends meet.

I work within a humanistic integrative approach, meaning I integrate different modals, theories (Including CBT & TA) and skills to create bespoke & confidential therapy that is right for you. I work with Trauma all its forms, Anxiety, Depression and Anger. When there are feelings of low self esteem, smashed confidence and suicidal feelings, I believe I can help you though, especially when your own ‘black dog’ comes calling. Remember to reach out is a strength, and you are not alone even although it sometimes feels like the loneliest place.

I Live in Christchurch, Dorset and offer face-face, walk & talk and online counselling & therapy sessions designed and tailored to fit the specific needs of the client. 

• Initial Online session of 30-40mins
  • Free if client decides not to continue.
  • £25 if the client wishes to continue. (This cost will be added on to the first session fee)
• Further sessions priced and negotiated on an individual basis. Sessionprice range from £50-£60per 50 min session
• Discounted sessions for Armed Forces, Emergency Services, Veterans and NHS Staff - (ID/Proof of service maybe required)