Ash Griffiths

I was lucky enough to serve with the Royal Marines for ten yearson operations all over the globe. Some operations were of a humanitarian nature and some were very different. I left the marines to settle down and perhaps start a family and I take my hat off to those who manage this and still serve within the forces because it can be really tough ‘leaving’ loved ones. On leaving Armed Forces I have since worked in Europe, the middle and Far East and America both in the security and super yacht industry. Now the settle down bit, I am currently a serving operational firefighter, employed by a UK Fire & Rescue Service as an operational training manager with 17 years experience of the working within the emergency services. Following 14 years on a Fire engine, I am currently a training instructor. I specialise in fire behaviour and breathing apparatus training and all things road traffic collisions(RTC) . I am currently developing a system of work within the Fire and Rescue that promotes and supports mental health within the UK emergency services.
During my time in the armed forces and emergency services have witnessed on many occasions the lack of good mental health provisions and disassociation that both men and women have with mental health issues. The issues with having issues and the ‘man genre.’ Although things are changing, and culturally it will. Take Tim, I believe there is still a lack of support and direction with regards to good mental health within both Britain’s military and emergency services. It seems 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. I think there is still a way to go and more can be done to help those struggling with trauma, life change and th inability to feel useful away from the forces or services. This is the main reason I trained as a counsellor. I offer a bespoke therapeutic service that encompasses real experience and a knowledge of the very different ‘worlds’ and sometimes languages that go hand in hand.

I work within a humanistic integrative approach, meaning I integrate different modals, theories (Including CBT) and skills to create confidential therapy that is right for you. I have worked successfully with people from all walks of life from successful CEOs, Veterans and serving personnel to those struggling to make ends meet. I work with Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Anger and feelings of low self esteem, smashed confidence and suicidal feelings. When your ‘black dog’ comes back I can help you through.

COVID is still having a huge impact on most walks of life and who knows what the new norm will be as things change on a regular basis. I work with you in a collaborative way and we will get through your tough times. 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, telephone and online therapy sessions designed and tailored to fit the specific needs of the client. 

• 1st Consultation of 30-40mins (Online or Face to Face) - 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 at - £50 per 50 min session
• Armed Forces, Emergency Services, Veterans and NHS Staff - 20% Disount per 50 min session. (ID/Proof of service maybe required)
• Session prices maybe negotiated on a individual basis