THE MAN BEHIND
Hi, my name is Stephen, and I’m a therapist specialising in trauma and addiction therapy. I provide a safe, supportive space where you can begin moving on from the past, understanding the present, and building a brighter future.
Whether you're looking for Walk and Talk Therapy in Cumbria or online therapy, I’m here to help.
Who am I?
As a therapist with personal experience of overcoming trauma, I understand how it feels to be trapped and unsure how to move forward. My journey inspired me to specialise in trauma recovery and addiction counselling so I can help others break free and rediscover hope
Why Trauma and Addiction?
I founded Trauma and Addiction Therapy to provide compassionate, professional support for those struggling with the challenges of trauma, addiction, or both.
I know from personal and professional experience that talking to a therapist can make a real difference.
Whether you’re looking for trauma counselling or help with addiction recovery, you don’t have to face it alone.
Why Walk & Talk Therapy?
Walk & Talk Therapy is a powerful approach that combines movement, connection, and the healing power of nature. Research supports its effectiveness in processing traumatic memories and overcoming challenges. Whether you prefer riverside strolls, woodland paths, or panoramic views, Walk & Talk Therapy in Cumbria, Lancashire and the Yorkshire Dales offers a flexible, empowering way to heal.
Check out my blog to find out more.
A Range of Options
I offer Walk and Talk Therapy in a choice of locations across Cumbria and the Yorkshire Dales - tailoring the walk to your needs and preferences.
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You might want to be by a river
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You might to prefer to walk through woodland
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Equally, you might feel the need to walk up onto an escarpment so that you've got long-range views.
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You might want to stop and reflect - to be present in nature and the surroundings;
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But maybe you'd rather keep walking and process your thoughts.
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Where do you work?
I am based in Sedbergh, nestled between the stunning Lake District and Yorkshire Dales National Parks. This prime location offers countless options for Walk and Talk Therapy, set against the backdrop of some of the UK’s most breathtaking landscapes.
For standard sessions, I typically work within a 30-minute drive from Sedbergh. This makes my therapy accessible to those in nearby towns including Kendal, Kirkby Lonsdale, and Kirkby Stephen, as well as other surrounding areas.
If you’re willing to travel, my Walk and Talk Therapy extends further afield to individuals across Cumbria, Lancashire, North Yorkshire and beyond. This includes those based in Lancaster, Penrith or Windermere and even as far as Preston Carlisle or Skipton.
Even if you’re not located in the North West of England, you can still experience Walk and Talk Therapy with me. I offer:
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Remote Walk and Talk Therapy: You walk in your chosen location while we connect via WhatsApp, making this a flexible option for anyone in the UK.
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Full-Day, Half-Day & Retreat Options: These longer sessions allow for deeper exploration and can be tailored to suit your needs.
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Online Therapy - if Walk and Talk doesn't feel the right option for you right now. See below.
No matter where you’re based, I’m happy to discuss how Walk and Talk Therapy could work for you. If this strikes a chord - even if you're unsure - get in touch to learn more about options for therapy in person or remotely.
Online Therapy
Wondering if online therapy works? The answer is YES! Evidence shows that online counselling is just as effective as in-person sessions. It offers flexibility, comfort, and accessibility, making it a great option for many clients.
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Here are some of the advantages of working online with a therapist who has experience in this approach:
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You can work from the safety and comfort of a familiar environment - at home, at work, in the car or when you're out and about;
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There is flexibility and efficiency when you don't have to factor in travel time and cost
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The physical distance can feel reassuring for some people;
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You can continue working with the same therapist if your circumstances change or if you're away from home.
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If this resonates with you - even if you’re uncertain - why not take the first step? Contact me today to arrange a free 30-minute video consultation. Let’s explore how Walk and Talk Therapy or online counselling could help you move forward.
Trauma can result from a single stab wound, but can also result from a thousand little paper-cuts over time.
Matthias Barker
My understanding of trauma
Trauma is a fear that comes from the past but is impacting the present. It's not the event that happened; but the unresolved stress that stays in our bodies after that event because we were unable to process it. Two people can go through the same experience, but whilst one might ride the storm and come through it unscarred; the other can be impacted by it longer term. Unresolved trauma can go on to affect our choices without us even realising it, but with understanding and support, we can recognise and heal these wounds, rewriting our story for a better future.
My understanding of addiction
Imagine our brains are like a toolbox - with healthy tools like talking or walking, and rusty ones like drugs or unhealthy relationships. Rusty tools might numb pain temporarily - they might get the job done, but they aren’t a long-term solution.
Breaking free from addiction involves rediscovering healthy ways to cope with difficult emotions and addressing the underlying pain or trauma causing the need for those unhealthy tools.