Military & Emergency Services Experience
- I worked for nearly two decades as a civilian within the Ministry of Defence, alongside the Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force. Eight of those years within military welfare, including roles with the Veterans’ Welfare Service at Phoenix House PRC and the Army Welfare Service, both based in Catterick Garrison. I also spent years living in RAF Akrotiri. During this time, I supported serving personnel, veterans and their partners, as they navigated the personal and relational impact of service life.
- This work covered a wide range of experiences, including medical discharge, end-of-service transition, identity shifts, trauma, the impact of life-changing injuries, domestic abuse, family strain, boundaries, responsibility, and the cumulative pressure that can build in high-demand roles. It also involved working within complex systems, where confidentiality, clarity, and ethical practice are essential.
Work since leaving the MOD
Since leaving the Ministry of Defence, I have worked as a freelance coach with Rock 2 Recovery (CIC), beginning in March 2020.
Through this work, I support eligible serving personnel, veterans and family members from:
- the military
- police
- fire service
- ambulance service
Coaching through this route may be provided free of charge or at low cost. Eligibility is assessed by Rock 2 Recovery directly.
How this work is held
- All military and emergency services work I undertake is non-clinical and delivered within established organisational or charitable frameworks.
- Rock 2 Recovery describes their one-to-one coaching as:
“Designed to create meaningful change, using a tailored approach that empowers individuals to reshape their mindset and emotional well-being.”
Further information
You can find out more about Rock 2 Recovery, including eligibility criteria or ways to support their work, here:
Rock 2 Recovery → Rock2Recovery | Armed Forces Charity
What my clients say
Alan
Alison
Alan
At the start, I had no positive thoughts and felt like everyday was almost like a last day for me. I had no confidence in Sheila's abilities and doubted my own mind on whether it would work out or set me back, which EMDR, 6 years ago had done. I can honestly say, with Sheila's help, I have managed to put my worse demons to bed. Everyday feels like a good challenge now, trying to better myself each day. Thank you so much for the support you have given me. In the nicest possible way, I hope I don't have to contact you again.
Lily
Alison
Alan
I started working with Sheila when I was at my worst with my mental health. Personally, I really found her amazing, the guidance and the tools that she taught has stayed with me and I use most daily. Sheila made me get my confidence back, work with my anxiety and understand my triggers that sparked my complex PTSD. I would highly recommend Sheila.
Alison
Alison
Alison
Sheila really helped me work through some issues I had. It started off with management of emotions whilst supporting the transition of my partner leaving the army and the effect of his mental health but revealed a lot about myself which I am now able to work on. Incredibly understanding but at the same time made me think about why I do what I do and helped me change bad habits and old behaviours for a new pattern which has been so positive for my life.