I started my working life as a Psychologist having completed my training in both the UK and the United States. In particular, I specialised in Occupational Psychology, Industrial and Organisational Psychology, Applied Psychology, Cognitive Psychology and Social Psychology.

I additionally hold current post-qualification accreditations in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy and Acceptance-Commitment Therapy. I am a member of the British Psychological Society and the American Psychological Association.

I worked initially as a Psychologist for HM Prison Service with maximum security prisoners. An excellent, magnified training ground for learning about all aspects of behaviour, interactions, communication and influence.

I subsequently attained a place on the Accelerated Promotion Scheme for Senior Managers for HM Government. I worked primarily in HM Prison Service, in some of the most challenging and high-security prisons in the country and with some of the most high-profile and difficult prisoners – and staff. If ever there was a steep and invaluable learning curve for developing exceptional leadership, team building, management, conflict resolution and professional survival skills that was it!