Earlier this year I started a course, the Foundation for Emotional Therapeutic Counselling at a reputable centre in the idyllic setting of Cheltenham. In July I completed the Foundation level and providing the few required pieces of written work be approved, I'll be onto the more meaty section, the Diploma, which will keep me busy for a further 18 months.

The journey has definitely begun but is far from over. I've been fascinated by the mind and behaviour and have spent many hours reading and researching over the last 5 years in my personal time. The little I had learned was helping people, but it would never be enough without some more serious study, nor would I feel real satisfaction from what I could offer. So, I began looking at courses and although some seemed great, a lot didn't and the few that did never fully convinced me in their teachings. Enter Linda John and the link that brings Shinesmith into the story.

On a return flight from CPHI in Frankfurt, Linda and I sat next to each other and talked the whole way home. In that time, as well as helping me with some personal problems, she convinced me that the ETC values aligned with mine and I enrolled shortly after. Another mention must go here to fellow Shinesmith and Linda’s sister, Jules, who provides accommodation for me every time I travel up to study. Thank you both greatly. Looking back now those few hours on the plane were pivotal in me finding the confidence to take the plunge, to follow my passion and is a nice example of how talking in the right way with someone can affect big change in your life. 

Josh Fox. 

For more information on Emotional Therapeutic Counselling visit: www.emotionaltherapeuticcounselling.org