The Anxious Minds Team
IN LOVING MEMORY OF SHAUN MCCOWIE – HEAD OF COUNSELLING WALLSEND
Eddie
CEO Anxious Minds
In 2015, I took the initiative to establish Anxious Minds, a mental health charity, using my War Pension while I was homeless following my departure from the Armed Forces after 22 years of service, plus an additional nine years delivering training for Afghanistan with the Ministry of Defence.
This decision was driven by my own experiences of anxiety, depression, and PTSD, and the lack of early intervention, accessible mental health support, and long-term care I encountered during my journey. These challenges gave me a deep, personal understanding of the realities of mental health and ignited a passionate commitment to creating positive change in this field.
My commitment to improving mental health support is underpinned by extensive qualifications and lived experience. I hold a Level 6 qualification in Leadership and Management, equipping me with the skills to effectively lead and grow an organisation dedicated to supporting those in need. I also hold a diploma in Psychotherapy and Clinical Hypnotherapy, which has deepened my understanding of the wide range of mental health interventions available and how to tailor services to meet the needs of our service users.
In addition, I am a Master Practitioner in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), a powerful approach that explores the connection between thoughts, language, and behaviour.
Ten years on, I’m still a volunteer, because for me, it’s always been about people like me, reaching out for help and finding no one there. I made it my mission to change that.
Callum
Admin
Hi, my names Callum, and I am business administrator at Anxious Minds, a role I’m thrilled to undertake especially given the incredible work this organisation does. Having just completed my A-levels, majoring in Sociology and Health Social Care, I believe I bring a fresh perspective combined with the academic knowledge necessary to make meaningful contributions to our projects. My interest in sociology and health social care has always driven me to understand society’s complex layers, the importance of mental health, and how essential it is to provide support to those in need. This understanding fuels my passion for being part of a charity like Anxious Minds, whose mission resonates deeply with my personal and professional aspirations.
Jan – Accredited Professional Counsellor/Clinical Supervisor
Clinical lead – Head of Counselling
After obtaining my counselling qualification in 2007, I embarked on a journey to further develop my skills and expertise in the field. In 2010, I achieved the position of Clinical Supervisor, which allowed me to provide guidance and support to other counsellors in our professional practice. This role enabled me to contribute to the growth and development of the counselling community, ensuring that high standards of care were maintained.
In 2016, an important chapter began as both Shaun McCowie, who has sadly passed away, and I joined forces with Anxious Minds. Our shared vision was to establish and cultivate a comprehensive counselling and support service within Anxious Minds. With our combined expertise and dedication, we worked tirelessly to develop a robust counselling team that currently consists of over 30 skilled and compassionate counsellors. Within the charity, my current role encompasses overseeing all ongoing projects.
This responsibility allows me to ensure that the various initiatives and services provided by Anxious Minds are running smoothly and effectively. By actively managing and coordinating these projects, I strive to maintain a high standard of care and support for individuals seeking help with their mental health.
These may include group therapy, workshops, educational programs, and community outreach initiatives. The establishment of this centre signifies our commitment to cater to the diverse needs of our community and ensure that mental health support is accessible to all. In summary, my journey as a qualified counsellor and Clinical Supervisor has led me to play a vital role in the development and growth of Anxious Minds’ counselling service.
I am dedicated to enhancing the availability and quality of mental health support for people in the local area. I am honoured to contribute to the important work of Anxious Minds, as we strive to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals facing mental health challenges.
Russell
Counsellor / Manager of Wallsend Counselling Services
Russell is a highly skilled and fully qualified counsellor who is deeply passionate about providing support to individuals in need. Drawing upon his extensive training and expertise, he has taken on a significant responsibility as the driving force behind the operations of the Drop In and Recovery Centre in Wallsend.
Having completed rigorous training and education in the field of counselling, Russell has acquired the necessary knowledge and practical skills to guide individuals through their personal challenges. He is well-versed in a variety of therapeutic modalities and approaches, allowing him to tailor his support to meet the unique needs of each person he encounters.
Russell assumes a vital role in the management of Wallsend Counselling Services. His commitment to creating a safe and welcoming environment is reflected in the compassionate and non-judgmental atmosphere that the center embodies. Russell understands the importance of providing a space where individuals feel heard, valued, and supported throughout their journey of recovery and personal growth. Russell’s genuine care and dedication extend beyond the counseling room.
Fiona
Accredited Professional Counsellor- Head of Counselling Blyth
Hello, I am thrilled to share my journey with you. After a fulfilling career in the field of Education, I made the decision to embark on a new path as a Counsellor. To equip myself with the necessary skills and knowledge, I pursued re-training at Sunderland University. Since 2008, I have been working diligently as a dedicated and compassionate Counsellor, making a positive impact on the lives of individuals. Throughout my counselling career, I have had the privilege of working in diverse community settings, providing support to both young people and adults.
This breadth of experience has allowed me to gain a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by individuals in different stages of life. It has further reinforced my belief in the importance of accessible and inclusive mental health services for all members of the community.
Miranda
Accredited Professional Counsellor
Before transitioning into the field of counselling, I had a fulfilling career in Education. However, driven by a deep passion for supporting others in their emotional well-being, I decided to retrain and embark on a new professional journey. In 2019, I enrolled in a diploma program at Gosforth with Newcastle City Learning, where I acquired the necessary knowledge and skills to become a counsellor.
This comprehensive training program provided me with a solid foundation in counseling theory, techniques, and ethical practices. During my journey to becoming a qualified counsellor, I recognised the value of gaining practical experience in a supportive environment. To further enhance my skills and broaden my understanding of various therapeutic approaches, I dedicated two years as a volunteer at Cruse Bereavement.
Working with individuals who were coping with grief and loss, I witnessed firsthand the profound impact that compassionate counseling can have on helping individuals navigate through their pain and find healing. This experience deepened my empathy and reinforced my commitment to providing support to those facing emotional challenges.
My path then led me to Anxious Minds, where I completed a placement as part of my counselling training. The opportunity to work alongside the dedicated team at Anxious Minds was both enriching and transformative. Witnessing their commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of individuals experiencing mental health issues inspired me greatly. I was thrilled when I was offered a position at Anxious Minds, and I am immensely grateful to be a part of this remarkable charity.
Glen – Accredited Professional Counsellor
Veteran Families Support Team Counsellor
Glen is an accomplished and dedicated professional who has earned his credentials as a fully qualified counsellor and addiction support worker. His passion lies in providing unwavering support to the veteran community, recognising the unique challenges they face as they navigate the complexities of life after military service. Currently, Glen plays a crucial role in the veteran project, where he actively works to enhance the well-being and quality of life for veterans. Glen’s extensive training and qualifications have equipped him with the expertise to make a meaningful impact.
He holds a Level 5 qualification in Counselling and is accredited by the BACP, which signifies his advanced knowledge and skills in the field. This comprehensive training has honed his ability to establish genuine connections with individuals, fostering trust and creating a safe space for veterans to share their experiences and seek support. In addition to his counseling qualifications, Glen has also received training as an addiction support worker.
Claire
Accredited Professional Counsellor
Claire is an accomplished and compassionate professional who has dedicated her career to supporting people in their journey towards healing and empowerment. As a fully qualified counsellor, she possesses the expertise and knowledge necessary to make a profound impact on the lives of those she works with.
With her comprehensive training and experience, Claire is well-equipped to provide people with the support they require to navigate various challenges they may face.
Eva
Counsellor
Eva is a highly skilled and compassionate professional committed to helping people achieve lasting recovery and personal growth. As a fully qualified counsellor, she combines extensive training with valuable experience to deliver effective, person-centred support, empowering individuals to overcome challenges, build resilience and move forward with confidence.
Claire
Accredited Professional Counsellor /Clinical Supervisor
I am thrilled to share my journey of training and growth with you. In pursuit of becoming a counsellor and clinical supervisor, I undertook comprehensive training at Tyneside Metropolitan College. It was at this esteemed institution that I embarked on my path to become a Person-Centered Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor.
Eric
Veteran Lead North Tyneside
During my professional career, I dedicated 22 years of service to the Armed Forces, where I reached the esteemed rank of Warrant Officer Class 2 (WO2). This extensive experience within the military provided me with valuable skills, a strong work ethic, and a deep sense of discipline, which have shaped my approach to various roles and responsibilities I have undertaken.
Following my tenure in the Armed Forces, I transitioned into the field of education and became an ex university lecturer. As a lecturer, I had the privilege of sharing my knowledge, expertise, and experiences with eager learners. This role allowed me to contribute to the academic and personal development of students, fostering a love for learning and critical thinking within the classroom. It also enabled me to effectively communicate complex ideas, facilitate discussions, and guide students on their educational journey.
In addition to my experience in education, I also had the opportunity to work for North Tyneside Council as the veteran lead. In this capacity, I played a pivotal role in supporting and advocating for the welfare of veterans within the community. I worked closely with local authorities, organisations, and community groups to ensure that the specific needs of veterans were understood and met. This included coordinating services, providing resources, and raising awareness about the challenges faced by veterans as they transitioned into civilian life. Throughout my various roles and experiences, I have consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to serving others and making a positive impact in my community.
The 22 years I spent in the Armed Forces fostered in me a deep sense of duty, teamwork, and dedication to a greater cause. This mindset carried over into my work as a university lecturer, where I strived to empower and inspire students to reach their full potential. Moreover, my position as the veteran lead at North Tyneside Council allowed me to continue supporting a community that I deeply care about. The diverse experiences I have gained throughout my career in the Armed Forces, as a university lecturer, and as a veteran lead have equipped me with a unique skill set, adaptability, and a strong sense of empathy. These experiences have shaped my perspective on leadership, teamwork, and the importance of community engagement. I am grateful for the opportunities I have had to serve and contribute in various capacities, and I remain dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of individuals and communities I encounter.
Lindsay
Veteran Families Support Worker and Counsellor
Tracey
Veteran Project Lead Durham
Colin
Veteran Support Worker North Tyneside
After serving in the Royal Marines, Colin went on to dedicate his life to supporting others through mindfulness, relaxation, and breathwork. Drawing on both his military experience and many years of professional practice, Colin brings a calm, grounded, and compassionate approach to the Veteran Recovery College.
Colin delivers mindfulness courses, relaxation sessions, and breathing technique classes for veterans and their families. His sessions help individuals manage stress, anxiety, low mood, trauma responses, and the everyday pressures that can come with life after service. Through simple, practical techniques, Colin supports people to reconnect with themselves, regulate their breathing, calm the mind, and build resilience.
With many years of experience as a mindfulness teacher, Colin has developed a deep understanding of how mindfulness and breathwork can support mental health and emotional wellbeing. He is also a published writer on mindfulness and breathing techniques, sharing his knowledge more widely to help others understand the benefits of these practices.
At the Veteran Recovery College, Colin’s work plays an important role in helping veterans find moments of peace, regain a sense of control, and develop tools they can use in daily life.
Minnie – Accredited Professional
Therapy dog
Minnie likes meeting and welcoming people to the centre, loves sitting on knees giving unconditional love; mini has worked as a Dog therapist for the last 12 years. She loves sausages and walks on the beach.
Anxious Minds Trustees
Shoaib
Chair – Board of Trustees
Shoaib – MRICS brings more than 30 years of professional and commercial experience to his role as Chair of Trustees at Anxious Minds. A Chartered Surveyor for over 25 years, he has built extensive expertise across property valuation, management, agency, development, investment acquisitions and sales.
Alongside his property career, Shoaib has also owned and operated businesses across the retail, wholesale and hospitality sectors, giving him a broad understanding of leadership, business development, financial sustainability and the challenges involved in building and growing successful organisations.
As Chair of Anxious Minds, Shoaib brings this wealth of experience to support the charity’s continued development and long-term sustainability. He is passionate about helping Anxious Minds strengthen its foundations, build meaningful partnerships and expand its reach so that more people and communities can access the support they need.
Working closely with fellow trustees, the leadership team and the wider organisation, Shoaib is committed to providing strong governance, strategic direction and positive leadership as Anxious Minds continues to grow its services and its impact across the communities it serves.
Bryan
Trustee – Finance & Resources
Bryan is a senior international operations and site leader with almost 50 years of experience across FMCG, pharmaceutical and medical device businesses. A Chartered Mechanical Engineer, he has spent his career leading large teams and complex operations within highly regulated and performance-driven environments.
He currently works with Energizer Holdings, leading its North East manufacturing operation and supporting the global demand for hearing aid batteries. His career has given him extensive experience in financial planning, operational performance, resource allocation, risk management and making strategic decisions within complex organisations.
As Finance & Resources Trustee, Bryan brings this commercial and operational expertise to the Board, helping to provide oversight of the charity’s financial position and how its wider resources are planned and utilised. This includes considering areas such as funding priorities, workforce capacity, premises, systems and operational requirements to help ensure the charity can deliver effectively while planning confidently for future growth.
Bryan’s analytical and strategic approach provides valuable challenge and insight at Board level, helping fellow trustees make well-informed decisions and ensure that Anxious Minds continues to develop on a financially sound and operationally effective footing.
Tony
Trustee – Governance & Compliance
Tony brings almost 50 years of professional experience from a distinguished career in the marine industry, progressing from joining the Merchant Navy at 16 to becoming a Marine Captain and later an international Marine Consultant.
His career took him around the world, working across offshore projects, major marine operations and consultancy roles, including work for Shell and BP. This gave Tony extensive experience in leadership, decision-making, communication and working with people from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures.
As a Trustee of Anxious Minds, Tony brings this experience to the Board, offering a practical and grounded perspective while supporting the charity’s development and governance.
Tony also volunteers within our centres, where he runs art therapy sessions. This direct involvement gives him a valuable connection with the people who use our services and adds an important practical perspective to his role as a Trustee.
Leanne
Trustee – Executive Assistant
Leanne brings more than 10 years of professional expertise across education, training, coaching, business support and organisational development to her role as a Trustee of Anxious Minds.
Her career has seen her work across quality management, training and development, stakeholder engagement, finance, policy and procedures and continuous improvement. This breadth of knowledge has given her a clear understanding of effective organisational practice, accountability and the importance of well-structured systems.
As a relatively new member of the Board, Leanne brings a fresh perspective and a valuable range of transferable skills. She is keen to use these to contribute to informed decision-making, strengthen policy and procedural frameworks and work collaboratively with fellow trustees as the charity continues to evolve.
Leanne is committed to growing within the trustee role and playing an active part in the continued development and long-term success of Anxious Minds.
Chris
Trustee – Medical Professionals
As a retired doctor he brings more than 30 years’ experience as a GP and Senior Practice Manager, supporting communities across North Tyneside, particularly Wallsend. As the owner of the Vault Wellbeing Centre, he contributes extensive healthcare, leadership and community experience to Anxious Minds’ Board of Trustees.