Brian Ward
Cognitive behaviour therapistAbout Me
Hi, I’m Brian E. Ward MSc.
For over 30 years I have been working and specialising with Personality Disorders; ADHD; both recreational drug/alcohol and prescription drug addictions; self-harming; suicidality, and all aspects of developmental trauma.
My work is focussed on ending the suffering that is the consequence of early life trauma and common addictive and destructive behaviours, - and this is my life's work and passion. This focus also embraces diverse mental illnesses, both neuroses (anxiety, depression, PTSD, etc) and psychoses (schizophrenia, paranoid, bipolar disorder, etc).
I work in person, and now also, - and increasingly, - online via Zoom conferencing, which has proven to be an effective and nurturing medium through which to progress this challenging work.
I do not approach mental distress as an ‘illness’ or ‘sickness’.
Instead of presuming ‘disease’ or ‘sickness’ as my starting point, I have learnt to identify the many unique factors that result in mental suffering, and make no assumptions or conclusions from existing diagnoses or behaviours. Instead, I simply use these as clues, which then contribute to a mutually agreed care plan. I empower clients to challenge and change each of these, - to fulfil their unique potential.
My therapeutic methods do not involve ‘re-living’ any past experiences or traumas. All of my cognitive work is based solely in the present time. This approach is empowering and gives clients understanding and mastery over their own experience of suffering.
My methods are firmly grounded in scientific fact and substance. I believe that ‘knowledge is power’, and so I teach clients the origin, basis, and mechanisms of distress that they experience. Together, we then dismantle each of the various factors that maintain their distress.
Teaching and bringing about permanent change and healing is my life’s work and passion.
I have regularly lectured and trained public, private and voluntary sector Agencies in trauma informed care; drug and substance addictions, psychopathology and consequences of trauma for more than 20 years, and this work is still ongoing in my commitment to promote intelligent multi-disciplinary work with early trauma.
In addition, I have treated many physiological illnesses linked to mental illness such as:
- IBS
- Fibromyalgia
- Type 2 Diabetes
- Gastric Reflux
- Ulcerative Colitis
- Hypertension
- Atherosclerosis
Locations
Warden Bay,
Kent
Isle of Sheppey,
ME12 4PJ
Issues often worked with
Types of therapy
Therapy offered
Client groups
Fees
I charge £40 per session. This is not rigidly limited to one hour, but recognises that each session should not be time limited, and should focus on the presenting needs of the individual in each session.
The first assessment session is provided at no cost, to assess the needs of the individual and to discuss a projected treatment plan. A case formulation is then provided to each client which outlines presenting circumstances and proposed ways forward.
Payment will be required in advance of each session.
Training and qualifications
I hold a Master of Science Degree in Neuroscience and Psychology (Kings College, London).
I hold Diplomas in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Rational Emotive Behavioural Therapy (REBT) (CCBT, Regents University, London).
I am also fully trained in the delivery of 1:1 and Group Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT).
I have been regularly consulted as a recreational drugs expert in judicial proceedings for more than 15 years.
I am a member of the National Counselling Society (NCS), Federation of Drug & Alcohol Practitioners (FDAP), and British Neuroscience Association (BNA).
I am a Company Director of Angel Lane CIC, which provides training in trauma informed care, research, principles and implementation of systems to public sector organisations throughout Kent.
Verified professional membership
