About me
I am the founder of Developing Positives, a counselling and therapy service based in Banchory, Aberdeenshire. I offer both face-to-face sessions in Banchory and online counselling, allowing me to work with clients across the UK and internationally.
As a qualified pluralistic therapist, I believe there is no single approach that suits everyone. I work collaboratively with clients to understand their individual needs and goals, drawing on a range of therapeutic approaches including person-centred, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioural, and creative methods where appropriate.
People seek counselling for many different reasons, and I welcome clients experiencing a wide range of difficulties, including anxiety, stress, depression, bereavement, relationship challenges, self-esteem and body image concerns, substance use, isolation, life transitions, and the emotional impact of health conditions. This list is not exhaustive, and whatever brings you to therapy, you will be met with empathy, respect, and without judgement.
I offer a free introductory call to help you decide whether I am the right therapist for you and to answer any questions you may have about the counselling process.
I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and adhere to its ethical framework, ensuring that I provide a safe, professional, and confidential service.
Training, qualifications & experience
My approach to counselling is shaped by both professional training and many years of experience working with people in a variety of settings. While qualifications and theory are important, I do not believe therapy is about fitting people into categories or diagnoses. Rather, I see each client as the expert in their own life. My role is to work alongside you, drawing on my knowledge, experience, and training to support you in making sense of your experiences and moving towards your goals.
As a pluralistic therapist, I integrate different therapeutic approaches according to the needs of each individual. This flexibility is supported by a broad background in counselling, social work, research, safeguarding, addiction studies, and therapeutic photography.
My qualifications include:
Diploma in Pluralistic Counselling and Therapy (Grounded Learning)
Counselling Skills Certificate (COSCA / University of the West of Scotland)
PhD: Is There a Role for Therapeutic Photography in Social Work with Groups? (Robert Gordon University)
Postgraduate Certificate in Research Methods (Robert Gordon University)
Postgraduate Certificate in Adult Support, Protection and Safeguarding (University of St Andrews)
Graduate Certificate Practice Learning Qualification (Robert Gordon University)
Postgraduate Certificate in Addictions (University of Glasgow)
MSc Applied Social Studies (Robert Gordon University)
Postgraduate Diploma in Social Work (Robert Gordon University)
BA Communication (Edinburgh Napier University)
Alongside my formal qualifications, I am committed to ongoing professional development, regular clinical supervision, and maintaining high professional and ethical standards as a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).
Member organisations
BACP is one of the UK’s leading professional bodies for counselling and psychotherapy with around 60,000 members. The Association has several different categories of membership, including Student Member, Individual Member, Registered Member MBACP, Registered Accredited Member MBACP (Accred) and Senior Registered Accredited Member MBACP (Snr Acccred). Registered and accredited members are listed on the BACP Register, which shows that they have demonstrated BACP’s recommended standards for training, proficiency and ethical practice. The BACP Register was the first register of psychological therapists to be accredited by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA). Accredited and senior accredited membership are voluntary categories for members who choose to undertake a rigorous application and assessment process to demonstrate additional standards around practice, training and supervision. Individual members will have completed an appropriate counselling or psychotherapy course and started to practise, but they won’t appear on the BACP Register until they've demonstrated that they meet the standards for registration. Student members are still in the process of completing their training. All members are bound by the BACP Ethical Framework and a Professional Conduct Procedure.
Accredited register membership
The Accredited Register Scheme was set up in 2013 by the Department of Health (DoH) as a way to recognise organisations that hold voluntary registers which meet certain standards. These standards are set by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA).
This therapist has indicated that they belong to an Accredited Register.
Areas of counselling I deal with
Therapies offered
Fees
£50.00 per session
Concessions offered for
When I work
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Further information
Outside of my counselling work, I am a husband, father of two, and a lifelong learner. Originally from Scotland, I have travelled extensively and value the opportunity to learn from different people, cultures, and experiences. These experiences have helped shape my belief that every person's story is unique and deserves to be understood with curiosity, respect, and compassion.
Before becoming a therapist, I worked in a variety of fields including media, travel and tourism, social work, and education. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of supporting people from many different backgrounds and circumstances, often at challenging points in their lives. This has included working with children and young people in care, people affected by substance use, individuals with criminal justice involvement, carers, hospital patients experiencing significant change or loss, and adults facing complex personal challenges.
These experiences have reinforced my belief that there is no "right" reason to seek counselling. Some people come to therapy with a clear understanding of what they would like support with, while others simply know that something does not feel quite right. Both are equally valid starting points.
My aim is to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgemental space where you can explore whatever is important to you. I recognise that each person brings their own experiences, values, and perspectives, and I will work alongside you in a way that respects your individuality. Whatever has brought you to counselling, we can explore it together at a pace that feels comfortable for you.
