Jim Byrne

Hello, My name is Jim Byrne. I am a Doctor of Counselling, based in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire, UK. Most of my writing involves helping people to cope with problems of anger, anxiety, depression, stress, self confidence, couple conflict, marriage guidance, and communication skills. I also help with attachment issues, grief and family of origin issues; plus Lifestyle coaching. And I have also published one novel and a book of fictionalized autobiography.

I have been in private practice as a counsellor and psychotherapist in Hebden Bridge and Halifax, West Yorkshire, for more than twenty-one years (as at November 2019); and I have clients all over the world via the telephone system, email counselling and Skype/webcam.

My own life experience was an important part of what got me into this profession in the first place. I was born into an unhappy marriage, and grew up in very difficult, poverty-stricken circumstances, in which fear and cruelty were intertwined with oppressive religion and bent politics.

I have also published what some would think of as the memoir or autobiography of the first 40 years of my life; but I think of it as a 'revised personal mythology', in which I intermix some aspects of my own life, the life of one other person, and a lot of dreams, imaginations, and fictional fantasies.

My life is testimony to the belief that (almost?) anybody can wake up to their unacceptable social circumstances, vote with their feet, and begin to build the life they want for themselves. Of course, that is not a fast process, nor a simple or easy process. But it is a definite possibility (for at least most of us!). And one that is worth working at!

Through my writing, I aim to help many individuals who either cannot afford counselling and therapy, or who cannot bring themselves to come forward for help. Through the skilful use of the written word, I can show people how to work on their thinking, feeling and behaviour, and how to build a better, more successful life; plus better relationships for themselves.

For more information about my current books in print, please go to https://abc-bookstore-com