Julia Macintosh

I work with people who identify as mad, or who befriend or care for someone who identifies as mad. They have lived experience or carer's experience of mental health crisis, breakdown, and/or psychiatric services, which may include periods of hospitalisation, medication and one or more diagnostic labels. They are trying to integrate this experience into their life in a meaningful way.

I've been there: I have been using mental health services for over a decade, and have been hospitalised twice during episodes of psychosis. I have also for many years been a carer of close family and friends who have similar experience. I understand what it feels like to live through this disruption and to learn to make sense of it.

As your coach, I hold a space for you in which you can:

- contextualise your experiences;
- explore your mad identity and your relationship to madness;
- learn to trust and value lived experience;
- develop strategies for integrating your experience with the world around you;
- establish goals and plans that align with your authentic self;
- find joy, purpose and mad pride in your unique perspective.

My coaching style is warm and engaging, and I walk alongside you as you take each step of contemplation and learning. This is neither therapy nor counselling and I do not offer advice, diagnosis or treatment (though I am happy to work in parallel with other professionals.) As a coach, I listen carefully and I hold a space for you in which to explore your ideas, experiences, aspirations and goals.

Working with me will feel both challenging and rewarding, energising and hopeful. This is profound work – touching on the deeply meaningful - and it leads to clarity, purpose and increased confidence. I support you to recognise and develop your lived expertise.