Compass Changing Lives

My name is Sam, I am a Mental Health Practitioner with Compass Changing Lives.

I am new to Compass but not to the role after completing my training with Northampton University and the Changing Lives Service.

I have had many jobs over the years, but finally feel as though I have found the right job for me.

I am passionate about supporting children, young people and their families with their challenges around mental health.

When I am not at work, I can be found renovating my new house or walking my two dogs, Willow and Harley. I love to be sociable and enjoy going out for lovely meals with friends and family.

My educational background is in Psychology, and I have recently qualified from a CYP IAPT Low Intensity training program at the University of Northampton as a Children’s Wellbeing Practitioner.

My professional background is varied, but has always involved working with children and families. I have nursery and childcare experience, as well as time spent as a Residential Childcare Worker in both a large assessment unit and an Eating Disorder Support Centre.
Prior to re-training, I was supporting Families and Children as a Children’s Support Worker specializing in Domestic Abuse at a refuge.

I am excited to be able to offer children and families low intensity support and early interventions, as I see this as the best way to spread awareness about mental health struggles and to normalise them.

I enjoy seeing young people make changes in their lives and in learning how to help themselves, and to help parents feel empowered to make changes within their family unit.

I wanted to actively do something to help reduce waiting time for children to access mental health services, and to intervene at the earliest opportunity.

I love to spend time outdoors and can often be found foraging for wild food. I’m a big fan of Scrabble and Bananagrams, and I enjoy the odd game of chess.

I love to read and enjoy catching up with my friends and family overseas. Most of my holiday time is spent reconnecting with my family, who all live in the tiny state of New Hampshire in the United States.

I have a degree in primary education and have worked in education as a teacher and in various capacities for the last 10 years.

In my role prior to joining Compass, I planned and delivered an alternative curriculum provision for children with SEND and behavioural needs. I also trained as an Emotional Literacy Support Assistant and delivered bespoke individual or group interventions to support pupils with their emotional health and wellbeing.

It was through this work that I discovered a passion and dedication to want to do more to support the mental health of our children and young people.

I am thoroughly excited to be working for Compass Changing lives. I resonate strongly with the vision to provide help at the earliest opportunity and to improve access to emotional and mental health support for all children and young people, ensuring everyone can receive the support and advice they need.

In my personal life I love spending quality time with my two sons and family. We love playing board games together and having movie nights.

I enjoy walking and being in nature, I love to cook and try new recipes and enjoy mindfulness through being creative such as painting or hand lettering.

I am a qualified CYP Wellbeing Practitioner by background and worked with Build Sound Minds Derby/Derbyshire as a Family Support Practitioner for 2 years before training as a low intensity supervisor.

I am excited to join a brand new wave of MHSTs where I can participate in it’s growth and evolvement. I am most excited in the formation and shaping of the MHST in which suits the needs of the Centre of Excellence and feeder schools we work with.

I love to travel and experience different cultures, cuisines and lifestyles.

I have worked in various early years settings for over 10 years in places such as Vietnam, Dubai and the UK.

I trained as a Primary teacher at 27 at the University of Worcester but decided that the role as the lead teacher was not where I wanted my time to be focused. I decided on a career change and worked in the events industry for 4 years working on local Derbyshire events such as ‘The Sausage & Cider Festival’ and ‘Back 2 Festival’. However, I always felt a pull to work again with children and when this position came up it seemed too good to be true.

I have always been passionate about improving mental health and wellbeing in myself and others and I am excited to help as many children as possible on this journey.

When not at work I like to go walking with my cockapoo and getting out in nature, binging crime series, or watching Harry Potter on repeat. I also love to sleep but my 2yr old won’t let me do this anymore

Hi, I’m Becky and I’m a Trainee Education Mental Health Practitioner working for Compass Changing Lives.

I completed a Bachelor of Science in Psychology (Education and Development) and graduated in 2019.

Since then, I’ve worked in a secondary school as a Wellbeing Mentor offering low level support to students in school. Working in this role made me eager to further support children and young people struggling with their mental health.

I was so excited when I was accepted for the position of Trainee EMHP as I felt like it was an amazing opportunity to fulfil this passion.

In my free time, I love going on long walks with my dog and being able to explore the beautiful area of Derbyshire.

Also, I love cooking for my friends and family and experimenting with new recipes.

I am delighted to be a part of the Compass Changing Lives team as everyone has the same desire

Hi, I’m Zoe! I completed a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with the Open University in 2015 before completing a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Science in 2019.

I trained as an English teacher but decided to leave teaching to pursue my interest in mental health. I worked with Derbyshire Youth Justice Service as a Family Support Worker, empowering young people to make positive changes in their lives.

I’m looking forward to working with Compass Changing Lives to develop my skills as an Education Mental Health Practitioner and make a real difference in the lives of the young people we work with.

Outside of work, I am a mum to three amazing teenagers, and I enjoy going for walks with my lovely husband, spending time with my family and friends, and I love a good pub quiz!

Hi my name is Suzi and I am a Team Leader for Changing Lives Derby/Derbyshire.

I am a registered Mental Health Nurse and a qualified Specialist Community Public Health Nurse.

My passion is working with children and young people and supporting them to access early intervention supporting their mental health and well-being.

I have worked across secure mental health facilities and in community settings over the last 11 years.

Throughout my career I am a strong advocate to ensure the child’s voice is always heard.

Outside of work I enjoy days out, swimming and have a love for rollercoaster rides.

Hi, My name is Heather. I am an Administrator at Changing Lives Compass MHST. I have been working in Administration for over 20 years and have worked in a variety of sectors.

I feel immensely proud to be able to be part of this incredible Service which is going to make such a difference to so many people living in the Derby City/Derbyshire areas.

Outside of work I love spending time with my family exploring new places, socialising with friends & cuddling my cat, Izzy!

Hi, I’m Megan and I have a passion for supporting Young People to be their best. I am very privileged to be able to do this with Compass Changing Lives.

I am also a Rainbow guide leader and an archery instructor for Scouts.

I got my Psychology degree at Sheffield Hallam University and then kind of fell into this job that suited my passion perfectly.

Outside of working I love camping and walking/hiking in the outdoors and in the colder months I love to snuggle up with a book and complete a reading challenge.

I’m Tracey Meyrick, Team Leader in Compass Changing Lives, Derby.

I have over 30 years’ experience of working with children, young people, and families in a variety of settings within local government and the charity sector which includes statutory services as well as early intervention.

My roles have ranged from family support worker, social work assistant, senior practitioner, and family support manager.

In 2020 I changed direction into children and young peoples mental health, which has led me to my current role in Compass.

I strongly believe that a child should have a ‘voice’ and should be listened to, so they are able to influence decisions about their lives which brings about change. This is important in all aspects of a child’s life at home, in their community and at school and is a key part to building resilience and good mental health.

Outside of work I enjoy spending quality time with my family, including the dogs. I also like a good boxset binge!

Hi I’m Yasmin. After completing my BA(hons) degree in Creative Expressive Therapies (Art pathway) I worked in a secure mental health unit delivering therapeutic support to service users.

I then went on to working in an SEMH school as a Positive Behaviour Support Lead before completing the PGDip in CYP-IAPT Education Mental Health Practice. I have over 10 years experience supporting mental health.

In my spare time I enjoy shopping and eating out. I also love spending time with friends, family and my 3 crazy Dalmatians!

Hi, I’m Kay and I have recently left Early years education where I worked as a practitioner and EY SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator).

I am excited to pursue an ambition of permanently supporting young people with their mental health needs through Compass changing lives trainee Education Mental Health Practitioner programme.

Over the last three years I have studied fulltime (alongside full-time employment) fulfilling a foundation degree in early childhood studies at Staffordshire University followed by a BA Top up in CAMHS (Child and adolescent mental health services) at Worcester University.

I am excited to begin this training opportunity with Compass Changing Lives as I hold a real passion towards supporting future generations in understanding mental health and the benefits to be had. I have personal experience of the improvements that one can experience from receiving education and support towards understanding mental health.

I hope to be an advocate for children and young people who are finding the elements of daily life difficult.

My personal pastimes and interests lie around family, I also have a love of animals and love taking the family dog out on scenic walks away from the busyness of everyday life.

I have recently joined Compass and am loving my new role! Previously I was a teacher and loved working in schools with children.

In my spare time I love muddy field walks with my dog and enjoy anything outdoors related! So camping, swimming, skiing are just a few of my hobbies.

Previously I worked for CAMHS after graduating from The University of Northampton studying Psychology, receiving a first-class honours.

I lived in New Zealand for a year working within a secondary school when I was 18, I also volunteered in Tanzania for 4 weeks when I was 16

Working in CAMHS gave me the experience of working within Crisis settings, highlighting the importance of prevention

I have a BSc Psychology degree and Postgraduate Certificate in Psychological Wellbeing Practice (Children & Young People). Previous experience in children’s care homes and as a behaviour mentor in schools.

I am looking forward to continuing to provide mental health and emotional wellbeing support for children, young people, families, and schools.

I am particularly excited to be part of a team that is focused on providing a positive impact through early intervention support and helping ensure everyone gets the support best suited to their individual needs. Also, working in a team that utilises individual strengths to provide the best quality service possible.

When not at work I love reading, travelling, music, spending time/walks with my dog, psychology

I’m Mel and I am excited to be the Engagement and Equalities Practitioner at Compass-UK Changing Lives.

My background is working with and supporting young people in a school environment for the past 16 years as both a Higher-Level Teaching Assistant and a Cover Supervisor.

Outside of work, I love being in the outdoors, walking and camping. I am a guide leader in the Guide Association and an archery instructor at my local scout campsite.

I went to Nottingham Trent university to study Psychology and Criminology, I graduated in 2016. I then worked as a customer service assistant before starting my career in supporting others.

I was a Community Support Worker, helping young people with learning difficulties and disabilities in their homes and community. I then moved onto working as a Teaching Assistant for children and young people with Autism.

I trained as an EMHP in 2020, qualified in March 2021 and have started as a Supervising Practitioner Jan 2023.

I am looking forward to working at Compass Changing Lives to continue my passion in supporting young people and their families with mental health difficulties, helping to break the stigma around mental health and help those who are struggling to thrive as young people should, and live life with a happy and healthy mind.

Outside of work I love baking, hiking in the peaks with my partner and dog, reading, spending time with friends, running.

I am delighted to be the Clinical Operations Manager for Compass Changing Lives MHST. I am a senior accredited counsellor for almost 20 years, I have supervised counsellors and therapists for over 14 years. I am an accredited EMDR and EFT practitioner and I am a qualified mediator and CISD Debriefer.

I have been working with children and young people for over 12 years. I continue to be passionate and work hard to ensure needs are met in my current role. I look forward to working for Compass as it values and mission to one’s I have aspired to in my previous work.

I am trained in several holistic therapies including reiki, crystal healing, cupping and Indian head massage.

I have worked in a wide range of educational settings for over 12 years, from specialist education schools, post 16 college, alternative provision in main stream secondary school, as well as supporting and managing a year group of 150 students with a variety of different and diverse needs. These range from ASD, ADHD, challenging behaviour, anxiety and low mood and many more.

I have supported students with their mental health and emotional wellbeing to achieve a successful education by empowering, nurturing, and building on their confidence and self-esteem to believe in themselves.

Becoming and EMPH is something I have aspired to be, I am a passionate, caring, enthusiastic team player. Compass passion and purpose aligns with my values and attributes.

I am excited to work with a fantastic, friendly, and welcoming team and I am very excited to start supporting and making a positive difference to every child, young person, and their families.

Outside of work I enjoy listening to audio books on how to improve myself professionally and personally.

I enjoy playing/teaching netball, weight training, running and time with my family.

I completed my undergraduate degree in Psychology before working as a teaching assistant within an Enhanced Resource Unit, mainstream school and one to one with children with SEND.

I then worked within an NHS Learning Disabilities Team working within the community and family’s homes around complex behaviours and carrying out assessments and interventions within a Clinical Psychology Team.

I then trained and qualified as an Education Mental Health Practitioner working in schools in Burton for a few years before moving to Compass as a Supervising Practitioner.

I am looking forward to working with Compass to help more young people and families, support and grow my colleagues, and making wellbeing a priority for everyone. I have an interest in using creative and person-centred approaches, making resources, and working with SEND, sensory needs and tic disorders.

I enjoy going to the gym, swimming, walks with my dog Maple, and being creative!

I have spent 13 years working within health and education settings starting as a support worker with Mencap as a teenager at University .I also gained experience with supporting elderly people and in a low intense secure unit.

I made my journey into education settings in 2017 starting in primary school settings then progressing on to secondary school settings .

I was a head of house and pastoral manager before starting my journey as an educational mental health practitioner then a supervisor.

Educationally I attended Loughborough University and completed a bachelors degree in psychology. I then completed a Masters degree in forensic psychology at the University of Nottingham and then a Post Graduate Diploma in education mental health practice.

I currently volunteer as mental health link governor for a local primary school supporting them to implement mental health and wellbeing policies and train staff to support a whole school approach and to provide a link between school and the governing body.

I am looking forward to working with people from a range of different backgrounds, sharing our ideas and experiences to support the implementation of low intensity interventions.

I am a big fan of whole school approach I am excited to see what we as a team can deliver this year.

Lastly, I am looking forward to carrying on with my passion of supporting young people with their mental wellbeing.

In my spare time I enjoy running , swimming and walking my two rescue dogs in the peak district.

My academic background is in Psychology and Counselling. Following my degree, I have gained significant experience in supporting children and young people with SEMH needs.

My recent experience has been working as an Assistant Educational Psychologist responsible for leading group and individualised interventions and workshops underpinned by psychology for children and young people and supporting adults.

Furthermore, I have extensive experience in conducting research and developing new initiatives to support the needs of the students and schools.

Prior to this l worked as a school Learning Behaviour Mentor and a Healthcare Assistant in a Mental Health Hospital.

I am looking forward to providing young people with the space to share their voice, support them in overcoming their barriers to learning and wellbeing and contribute to the development of improved access to mental health support in education settings.

In my spare time I enjoy exploring new places and going for hikes. I love reading, cooking, and staying active by going to the gym and playing badminton.

Hi I’m Hayley, I am a mum to a 6 year old boy.

I completed my Psychology degree at the University of Northampton; on graduation I was unsure as to what I wanted to do for a career but knew I had an interest in mental health.

After working within mental care with the elderly for 7 years, I had my little boy, and through supporting him with difficulties he had with his speech I realised that I still had a passion for working with mental health but with children, to help them to reach their full potential.

Outside of work I love dancing, in particular ballet and tap, and playing the flute. I also love going for long walks with my family, jumping in puddles with my little boy and going home to read a book together.

Hi, I’m Hannah, a Mental Health Practitioner at Compass Changing Lives. I have an undergraduate degree in Primary Education. Whilst studying and working in classrooms, I developed a keen interest in working with children and young people beyond academic teaching.

I am passionate about supporting children and young people’s emotional and mental wellbeing, so I feel privileged to be able to support families across Ilkeston. Prior to working for Compass Changing Lives, I completed my post-graduate certificate in psychological wellbeing practice (Children & Young People).

In my spare time I love going to watch musicals. My favourite musical is Hamilton!

Hi, I’m Laura, an Education Mental Health Practitioner (EMHP) at Compass Changing Lives. After gaining my Psychology degree in Sheffield I spent a few years working in SEN education settings in various roles including a Learning Support Worker, Therapy Assistant and Learning Mentor. Following this, I worked as a Senior Practitioner on a neurodevelopmental assessment and diagnosis team before deciding to complete my training as an EMHP to provide more therapeutic support again. I am very passionate about supporting young people with SEN alongside mental health and emotional wellbeing, offering parental/family support and spreading awareness and inclusion.

In my spare time I love meeting up with friends and family and going for hikes in the Peak District as well as going out to eat. I also love going to the theatre and music festivals!

Hi, I’m Lucy and I’m the supervising practitioner for the Bolsover team! I have an undergraduate degree in Psychology and have since worked in various mental health settings, such as supported living for adults or inpatient CAMHS.

Most of my experience is working with children and adolescents, which is what motivated me to apply for this role.

I enjoy so many things about my job including the variety that it brings. I am lucky enough to work with many different schools, getting to know the staff, pupils and parents.

What is important to me is working closely with schools and families, providing training, workshops and encouraging discussions about emotional and mental health, to bring about positive change.

I enjoy supporting young people to understand what their difficulties are and how they can make small positive changes, that build up to make bigger transformations, so that they feel happier, while improving their quality of life.

Working for Compass is so rewarding in so many ways, which is made better by the supportive team I have around me.

In my spare time I like to stay as active as possible, going for walks in the countryside, running, going to the gym or doing yoga (at least more-so in the warmer months). I enjoy reading and watching any good crime scene drama on Netflix. I also spend a lot of time with my friends and family.

I am a Supervising Practitioner in the Ilkeston team.

After studying Psychology at Loughborough University, I worked as a Learning Support Assistant in a school for students with autism.

I began my training for the EMHP role in January 2020 and have been with Changing Lives ever since.

I’m excited to work for Compass because they have big ambitions for supporting children and young people with their mental health. It’s very rewarding working with a team who help young people thrive academically, socially and emotionally.

In my spare time I enjoy playing the piano, reading and walking my dogs, Milo and Murphy.

I have recently joined Compass as a Trainee Supervising Practitioner and I cannot wait to get started.

I have a passion and enthusiasm for supporting children’s mental health and well-being. I have previously worked in adult mental health services as an Assistant Psychologist, then as a qualified Primary School Teacher and more recently in a Child & Adolescent Mental Health Team, where I qualified as a Cognitive behaviour Therapist (CBT).

A particular interest of mine is in the area of attachment and I practice attachment parenting myself. I am also qualified as a Dyadic Developmental Therapist (DDP) Level 1 & 2, and have been trained to deliver Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT).

I look forward to developing my skills further during my time with Compass. Continuing to support young people, families and schools excites me.

In my spare time I love to get outdoors, taking in my beautiful county and exploring the Derbyshire Peak District.

Spending time connecting with others is also important. I love comedy clubs, cinema and getting up on the karaoke.

Hi, I’m Katrina and I have recently joined the Compass Changing Lives team in Derby as a Mental Health Practitioner.

As a new member of the team, I have already been really impressed by the supportive, creative and motivating nature of the team and I am really looking forward to getting to know everyone better.

For the past 15 years I worked in children’s services as a family support worker. I supported children, young people and their families experiencing a wide range of difficulties.

During this time, I completed an Enhanced Evidence Based qualification, working 1:1 with young people who display a variety of mental health difficulties which really interested me and made me want to follow this path to support children and young people further specifically around helping them have “good” mental health.

Outside of work I love spending time with my family and friends, and my two crazy cats. I am very happy when out on my walks which helps me to switch off and relax.

Hi, I’m Casey! I recently graduated from university with a degree in Children, Young People and Families, and was delighted to accept my first role as a Family Support Practitioner in the Changing Lives Team.

With the change to Compass, I was excited to venture forward and support young people in a Trainee Education Mental Health Practitioner role! I am passionate about empowering and advocating for the young people I work with, as they have so much to offer the world.

Mental health is so important, so I’m feeling very fortunate and excited to be a part of the Compass team, and to embed mental health into the curriculum and teach children and young people that how they feel is valid.

When not working, I love exploring the Peak District, spending time with my partner and family, and performing on stage. I’ve been dancing since the age of 3 and somehow still haven’t got bored!

I also have 2 guinea pigs who love when I work from home, expecting constant treats!

Hi, my name is Jo and I am pleased to join the team.

After nearly 20 years in teaching at an infant school, I have seen a dramatic increase in the number of pupils experiencing mental health problems.

I am eager to start making a different to children and young peoples’ lives and help them deal with the ever-changing world around them.

Outside of work, I enjoy reading and knitting toys and also attempt tap and jazz dancing.

My other big passion is Girl Guiding. I am a leader with a Rainbow unit, but also camp regularly with a Guide and Ranger group.

After initially training to be a teacher I decided I wanted to get more into the field of psychology and helping young people get the most out of life. I then studied for part time for a degree in psychology whilst getting some experienced in different roles within health, education and social care.

I then got a job training as a Children’s Wellbeing Practitioner in the initial stages of the development of MHST’s before eventually progressing up to my current role as a Supervising Practitioner (trainee).

I love being able to use my knowledge and experience to help young people to grow and flourish so they achieve their full potential.

Outside of work I love running, gardening, being outdoors, music, and spending time with family and friends.

Hi, I’m Sarah. I have long had an interest in the mental health field, particularly children and young people’s mental health. I have a history in psychology, mental health support and previously trained as an Education Mental Health Practitioner.

Throughout my career I have had the privilege of working with many children, young people, and their families, and I look forward to working with many more through Compass Changing Lives.

Outside of my role you can find me enjoying travel, cooking, music, films and my two cats.

Hi, my name is Anisah and I’m a Trainee Education Mental Health Practitioner working for Compass Changing Lives.

My educational background is in Child and Family Health and Wellbeing, and I completed my degree in 2020 during the first lockdown.

I have since gained significant experience in working with children and young people in various settings including local schools and eating disorder services.

These experiences have enabled me to develop and enhance several skills such as being empathetic and compassionate towards individuals and having the ability to communicate effectively with them.

In my more recent role, I have gained more specific experience of working with children and young people in education settings working as a Family Support Practitioner where I have worked directly with the EMHPs across Derbyshire.

I am excited to continue working in this field as I am passionate in supporting children and young people.

Apart from work I run my own henna business which gets super busy depending on the season. I also enjoy cooking for the family and go gym and boxing to stay active and healthy.

Hi! My name is Ellie, I am a Families Practitioner at Compass Changing Lives.

I graduated from the University of Sheffield in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology. Since then, I have gained experience working as an SEN Teaching Assistant, Mental Health Recovery Worker, and a Mental Health Wellbeing Worker.

I have worked with a diverse range of people to support their mental health, wellbeing and ongoing personal development.

I am looking forward to working as a Families Practitioner to make a genuine difference for children, young people, parents and carers who are facing challenges with their mental health.

I am a big believer in positivity and inclusion, and I am truly passionate about providing opportunities for good mental health so everyone has the chance to discover their best self.

Outside of work, I enjoy yoga, crystal healing, music festivals and spending quality time with my friends and family.

Hi, I’m Katy! I’m a Mental Health Practitioner for Changing Lives in the Bolsover team.

I completed my Psychological Wellbeing Practice training at the University of Northampton. I also have a Masters degree in Dance Movement Therapy.

Previously, I have worked for an eating disorders charity and in a neurological rehabilitation unit.

Outside of work, I enjoy days out with my family, socialising with friends and going on walks (especially on a nice, sunny day!).

I am very passionate about working with children and young people to improve their mental health and emotional wellbeing.

I believe that early intervention is really important so I’m very excited to join the team here at Compass Changing Lives.

Working with children and young people is a profound passion of mine; particularly in the area of neurodivergence and trauma.

I have extensive experience working across both mental health and educational settings focusing on SEND. As a result children, families & school staff benefit from my deep understanding of their challenges and my confidence in communicating their needs and supporting their individual goals.

In my personal life I am an active mother of 4 children spanning between 1 years old and 15 years old. As a family we enjoy board games, hiking and art.

My personal hobbies include listening to podcasts, reading academic literature, hiking, attending strongman gym and pottery.

I am excited to be part of Compass Changing Lives establishing MHST’s within Derby and Derbyshire.