Over 20 years ago, I had a successful career as a performer, in theatre as well as dance, which I loved; it was all I had ever wanted to do. However, a serious injury to my back left me semi-paralysed and unable to return to the stage. I had been aware of, but ignored, the warning symptoms for a long time, my mind convincing me that I could go on, until, one day, quite literally, my body could not cope any longer and my career ended there and then. The prognosis was that I would never perform again, and I was devastated. I had been devoted to my profession, but was equally determined not to let this experience ruin my life or affect my mental health. I began reading about the power of the mind. It caused me to decide that I was going to give my body the chance to recover, whilst I began to learn about my mind and what had caused me to be where I was.
Six months later, I went, on crutches, to enrol on a Psychology course at University and I began a 10 year journey of study and self-exploration that resulted in me becoming a Chartered Psychologist. During that time, I also accessed therapies, such as yoga, alongside mainstream physiotherapy and counselling. To the disbelief of the doctors, I returned to the stage to support my studies. I believe that everyone has the power within themselves to overcome most obstacles in life and I work on the principal that my role as a therapist is to help you find your inner strength.