My upbringing as a teenager in Lancashire prepared me for a life of adventure and challenge. I lived on a farm in Aberdeenshire for several years, which exposed me to life by the sea and set me on a path to a successful career in the Oil and Gas and renewable sectors as a Chief Officer in the Merchant Navy. My travels took me to some of the world’s most challenging and dangerous locations.

I have faced many dangerous situations, such as armed confrontations, kidnapping, robbery, and piracy. I have seen firsthand the consequences of trauma, injury, and death, making me intimately familiar with the realities of stress and anxiety.

As a Merchant Navy officer, I provided support and counseling to the multinational crews under my command. I understand the difficulties of balancing personal and professional stress when working abroad for extended periods of time, particularly during emergencies such as the loss of a loved one or a relationship breakdown. Through my experiences, I have developed the skills to effectively manage and support others during those challenging times.