Meet the therapist - Cassius

At James’ Place, we couldn’t provide help to men facing a suicidal crisis without our team of therapists. Here is a bit more about Cassius, Senior Therapist in London. 

What does a typical day look like for you?

I usually get into the office at 09:15 and try to decipher how my day is going to go. I’m not much into technology but I like writing things down on paper so I can see it physically. I tend to make a weekly list of all my caseload clients, welcome assessments, and referrals. I can look at it and then I’m in that ‘Duracell’ mode of trying to complete each of those tasks. Therapy is all about reflection and not reaction so as well as making a list there’s also a sense of reflective thought that goes into my work.

What three words would you use to describe your role?

Curious, Creative, Experiential

What do you like most about your job?

I can see that difference that I’m making to the lives of these individuals. What’s important is that it’s about making people think, and know, that they matter. I think being able to be in an environment where I feel humbled to be able to share someone’s journey who’s never been in therapy before. They’re able to explore things that they’ve probably never done before in their life with anybody else. Holding that information in confidence and with sensitivity is a humbling experience for me and it’s really nice to know that someone else can benefit from that journey that I share with them.

What difference can counselling make to someone’s professional development / personal development?

I’m very much one for continued professional development because I think our work is always evolving and always moving forward. I’m of the opinion you can never know it all. We’re working with people and, by the very nature of this, it’s never a fixed state. I think it’s about how we can meet them where they’re at. It’s about really looking exploring the fragility you may see in front of you in your client but also looking at your own vulnerabilities. I’m learning a lot from my colleagues in London and I think that process is mutual.

If you could choose anyone, who would you pick as your mentor?

Michelle Obama. I’ve read her book three times and I’m blown away by the things that she does, especially for women, young girls and for varied communities; uplifting them and trying to make things more equal. I’m also a huge boxing fan so Muhammad Ali too. He’s just an amazing guy and I was named after him.

What is your biggest achievement to date, either personal or professional?

My biggest achievement will always be the birth of my children. I’ve got three boys and I delivered all of them so my attachment and connection to them is so strong. I’m so pleased to see how they’ve grown and how they challenge me. I’m really proud of them.

What are you currently reading?

I’m currently reading a book called Rise which is by Michael Holding, a former fast bowler for the West Indies Cricket team. The book is based on his experience growing up in the West Indies, touring the world with the West Indies cricket and his experiences of racism and discrimination. It’s an interesting read from a different perspective of sports celebrities who are in the public eye.

Tell us something about you that might surprise us.

I used to be an amateur boxer and represented London & England. My dream was to become a professional boxer and then I changed my mind because I realised, I didn’t want to do it for a living. I also play the double bass. I play in a local jazz band, but I also do a little bit of busking every now and then when the weather is good.

If you need support, you will find more information about who we help here.