BA(hons.) MSc, DipHE, STL, MBACP (reg.), MBPsS

I have been a priest of the Archdiocese of Liverpool since 1992. Prior to training for the priesthood, I
completed a degree in Psychology with Education Studies, and have been a graduate
member of the British Psychological Society since 1999. I completed a diploma in
person-centred counselling in 2001, and more recently an MSc in Existential Psychotherapy Studies and a certificate in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.

As a therapist I have worked in a variety of settings including the
charity sector, a GP practice and the St Luke Centre in Manchester. At St Luke’s I was involved
in over 300 assessments of candidates for seminary, diaconate formation and religious life, I was Coordinator of Continuing Care, supporting those returning to ministry following residential rehabilitation, and taught human
formation modules at various seminaries.

As a priest, I’ve worked in parish settings, taught theology at various seminaries and was a member of the formation faculty. Since 2017, I’ve been been Catholic chaplain to the University of Liverpool and John Moores University.

Although my original training in counselling was person-centred in orientation, my approach has also been informed over the years by studies in existential therapy. Developing a good working alliance with my clients is key, which I strive to do by offering a respectful and non-judgemental therapeutic space. As a registered member of BACP, I adhere to their code of ethics.