Our team

Meet the team

At Talk Works, we’re proud to have a team of expert clinicians and professionals who are passionate about making a difference.

Each member of our team of counsellors, psychotherapists and psychologists brings unique skills and perspectives, but we all share a common goal: to help individuals and organisations thrive through compassionate, evidence-based mental health support in the North East.

therapy in the north east
accessible therapy north east

Our founder

Hi, I’m Jen, Clinical Psychologist and Clinical Director of Talk Works. Proud Mam. Mediocre Runner. Lifelong Learner.

I co-founded Talk Works in 2014 with a mission to make mental health support accessible and effective for everyone who needs it. I’m dedicated to creating services that truly make a difference in people’s lives and feel incredibly fortunate to work alongside such a compassionate and skilled team. Together, we’re proud to help our clients achieve meaningful, lasting change every day.

Our clinicians

Our team of therapists, psychotherapists and psychologists are leaders in their fields, chosen for their expertise, empathy, and dedication to creating meaningful change. Whether offering individual therapy or delivering workplace training, our expert clinicians are here to guide you with care and professionalism.

Paul O’Donnell

Clinical Lead
Paul O’Donnell

Clinical Lead

Hi, I’m Paul, Clinical Lead here at Talk Works, and I’m proud to be part of this incredible team. I’ve been working as a psychotherapeutic counsellor since 2014 in a variety of roles and I am passionate about supporting people who take that important step to seek help for their mental health.

Outside of work, I love exploring the beautiful North East with my dog, staying active (though weekends are reserved for a bit of indulgence), and enjoying quality time with family and friends.

Holly Lynn

Psychotherapist
Holly Lynn

Psychotherapist

Hi, I’m Holly, a qualified integrative psychotherapist and EMDR therapist. I’ve been part of Talk Works since 2021, and I love being able to offer accessible therapy to those who need it. Before joining Talk Works, I worked in primary care and the charity sector, gaining experience in supporting clients with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and trauma.

I’m passionate about creating a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings. I also specialise in working with couples experiencing difficulties with sex and I am currently undertaking additional training in this field.

Shelley Callaghan

Counsellor
Shelley Callaghan

Counsellor

Hi, I’m Shelley, a counsellor at Talk Works. I’ve had the privilege of working here for two and a half years, and I truly love what I do. It’s an honour to support and guide clients through their personal journeys, witnessing their growth and healing along the way.

When I’m not at work, I enjoy cycling and spending time with my family. These moments help me recharge so I can continue offering my clients the best possible support.

Maria Bromage

Cognitive Behavioural Therapist
Maria Bromage

Cognitive Behavioural Therapist

Hi, I’m Maria, an accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (PG Dip) and qualified EMDR practitioner. I’ve been working in the health service since 2004 and specialising in CBT since 2010. I love how CBT helps us understand ourselves better, using both physical and cognitive strategies to support mental wellbeing.

I work hard to create a comfortable, judgement-free space where clients can focus on their needs. Outside of work, I practice what I preach—I recharge by spending time outdoors, enjoying music, and connecting with family and friends.

Ann Hunter

Training Lead
Ann Hunter

Training Lead

Hi, I’m Ann, a qualified Humanistic Therapist and MHFA Instructor Member. After many years working in the construction industry, I found my way into the world of mental health following my own experiences with workplace stress. The difference that therapy made inspired me to retrain, and I’m now passionate about reducing stigma and encouraging open conversations about mental health at work.

Outside of work, I’m a mum of three including a daughter, a stepson and a fluffy pooch called Poppy. I love live music and festivals, reading, and trying new things (belly dancing included!). I’ve even signed up for the Great North Run, despite barely being able to run for a bus!

Our support team

Behind every session, workshop, and program is a team of passionate professionals working to ensure your experience with Talk Works is seamless and supportive. From scheduling to follow-ups, we’re here to make sure you feel looked after every step of the way.

We’re here for the messy, the tough, and the everything-in between. No matter where you are in your mental health journey, our team is ready to meet you there.

Ben Cottam

Chair of Directors
Ben Cottam

Chair of Directors

I’m an entrepreneur and engineer with a passion for innovation and building businesses that make a difference. As Chair of Directors at Talk Works, I help shape the organisation’s strategic direction, ensuring we continue to deliver high-quality, accessible mental health support for individuals and businesses.

I’ve always believed in the power of collaboration, and I’m proud to work alongside a team that’s dedicated to breaking down barriers to mental health care. Supporting people to access the right help, at the right time, is something I feel strongly about, and I’m committed to championing evidence-based therapy that truly makes an impact.

Outside of Talk Works, I enjoy working with teams to bring new ideas to life—and, if you ask Jen, I also have a well-documented enthusiasm for trips to the tip, hot yoga, and peanut butter!

Helen Wilkinson

Managing Director
Helen Wilkinson

Managing Director

Hi, I’m Helen, Managing Director at Talk Works. I lead the company’s strategy, operations, and growth, and I feel deeply passionate about supporting people to thrive. It’s an honour to work alongside such a fantastic team who make this vision a reality every day.

Outside of work, I’m a proud mum of two. My weekends are often spent cheering on my children at football matches or enjoying long walks with our dog.

Alexis James

Practice Team Leader
Alexis James

Practice Team Leader

Hi, I’m Alexis, the Practice Team Leader at Talk Works. I oversee the referral team and serve as one of the first points of contact for our clients, offering a friendly face and a listening ear. Since joining in 2020, I’ve felt immense pride in being part of an organisation that’s so dedicated to making a difference.

Outside of work, I enjoy time with my young family, getting lost in a good book, and the occasional cheesy pop concert!

Emma McPherson

Associate Coordinator
Emma McPherson

Associate Coordinator

Hi, I’m Emma, the Associate Coordinator at Talk Works. I’m the first point of contact for our network of associate clinicians and love being part of an organisation committed to creating positive change.

Outside of work, you’ll find me baking, gardening, reading, or spending quality time with my family.

Our commitment to a sustainable future

We’re proud to be a certified B Corp, which means we meet the highest standards of social and environmental responsibility.

For us, being a B Corp isn’t just a label—it’s a promise to prioritise people and the planet before profit. From reducing our carbon footprint to supporting local communities, we’re dedicated to building a sustainable future for all.

Find out more

Work with us

While we don’t have any current vacancies, we’re always looking to collaborate with passionate, skilled clinicians nationwide.

If you’re interested in joining the Talk Works team as an associate clinician, please share your details using the form below, and we’ll be in touch.

Let’s make a difference together.

Become an associate