My Journey into this work did not begin with a job title or a qualification. It began at home. I found myself holding back tears after yet another call from school. In year 8 of Secondary school, my bright funny daughter, full of potential suddenly found herself unable to fit the rigid mould of mainstream education. Almost overnight, we went from being a typical family to a family living in crisis.

 

Instead of support, we were met with disproportionate punishments, daily calls, constant reports, suspensions and a growing reputation that followed her everywhere. As parents we were expected to "work with school" by doubling down on punishments at home. As her mum it was heartbreaking. I watched her self-esteem crumble and I was left without support and with a child who slowly gave up on a system that was meant to help her.

 

I turned to doctors and various services for answers, but support was inconsistent and fragmented. Mental health services threatened discharge because she would not engage. Social services became involved and our lives were taken over by assessments, meetings and constant uncertainty. There were nights of meltdowns, episodes of her absconding and going missing, calls to the police, trips to A & E, and long hours waiting for help that often never came. All of this happened during COVID, when services were already at breaking point and families like mine were left to cope alone. I lived in a constant state of alert, never knowing what the next hour might bring. It was relentless!

 

But in the middle of all this something shifted. I learned how the system works (and where it doesn't). I learned how to ask the right questions, challenge decisions, push back when needed and advocate effectively and I refused to give up. Over time, I also learned to parent differently, I moved away from punishment and shouting and began focusing on boundaries, choices, consistency and connection. Alongside this I completed courses, gathered tools, and slowly began to rebuild stability within our family. Most importantly, I stayed present for my daughter, even when she rejected my help, even when it felt impossible and even when I was exhausted.

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After years of battling the system, my daughter finally received the help she needed. Following  her discharge from hospital, she now lives an independent and fulfilled life. She has told me this is a milestone she could never have reached without me by her side. Her journey taught me the true meaning of unconditional love and the strength that comes from not giving up, even when the path feels unbearable!​

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And now this is what I bring to you,....

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I do not work with your child. I work with you as parents, because you're the ones that need clarity, tools and a plan. I support you with practical strategies at home. while also helping you navigate the confusing world of schools. services. and specialist support. Where appropriate. I signpost to the right professionals and resources. and I help you prepare for and navigate. difficult meetings. so you are no longer fighting alone.

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Parenting today can feel impossible and its not your fault. Social pressures, mental health awareness, and the realities of modern life mean the old approaches often no longer work. We have to adapt and find new ways forward.

 

My journey and everything I  learned along the way, now form the heart of Crisis to Calm, I know how it feels to be exhausted, judged, overwhelmed, and desperate for answers. I also know its possible to find a way forward. I would be honoured to walk beside you, help you navigate the maze and support you in regaining calm and confidence in your home. You do not have to do this alone!​​​​​​​​​​​​​