I am a writer (of novels, primarily) and a psychotherapist. Writing came first. I have always been interested in searching out what motivates us, finding clues to how we reveal our truths, pursue obsessions, map ways around obstacles, draft and define new versions of ourselves.

A writer listens, observes and takes note. A therapist does this also, but for different ends. Metaphor, dialogue, description are threads common to both. As are emotion, conflict, humour and dramatic weather of all kinds. Tiny things can be immensely significant in both fiction and therapy. The reverse can also be true at times. The scale of what matters is hugely subjective both in writing and in therapy.

It was a logical jump to make, from reading books to reading people. From writing words to observing the spaces between them in others. For a time these two parts of me were separate and distinct. Two languages. They are much less so now.