"Has helped me to see what might be possible"

I have been with the LMHT for about 14 years now. I have struggled with various aspects of my mental health. Anxiety is just one of my difficulties. It has stopped me being able to do the most basic of things – going to a shop, hairdressers, hospital appointments and often I cant even leave the house.

When I first met OTA Shannon I thought she was loud, talkative and confident, I thought we were not going to get on. But, it has been exactly what I have needed. We have worked together now for about 18 months. I am now able to go to the hairdressers alone after not being able to go for several years. I can now collect my meds from the pharmacy alone. I have managed to meet a friend for coffee after not being able to see her for a few years. We have got public transport together, attended hospital appointments, visited a shop, had coffee in various locations and gone for several walks, which also supports my physical health as I have several chronic pain issues and a neurological issue.

Shannon has sorted out issues with my medications several times with both the pharmacy and my GP. When I have had some very low and suicidal spells, Shannon has checked in on me to make sure I'm ok. As well as helping support my day-to-day activities, Shannon has helped me to stay alive and out of hospital. We are now working towards me being able to attend therapy, something I have not been able to do before.

Meeting Shannon each week has also allowed me to talk about what is on my mind – as well as talking about everything else in the world - and a lot of talk about our cats! This helps me to keep some control over my mood and thoughts.

OTAs are very underrated and under appreciated. I still have a long way to go but working with Shannon has helped me to see what might be possible and offer me some hope.