Caithness Counselling Services Ltd

19/09/2025

My dad would have been in his element today 💜

Very happy to share that today marked the first session of our new working partnership with Alzheimer's Scotland - Caithness . We are trialling a Thurso men’s support group focussed on one hour of activities.

The small group is carefully selected and is an invitation only session. Day one was a huge success with scrabble, darts and pool enjoyed by all those who attended after their cuppa and biscuit.

Stepping Stones presents a perfect setting - central, quiet and contained.

This was a personal project for me after seeing how a men’s group at Couthie Corner supported my dad and how much he looked forward to it.

It is hoped that this can be extended in time to include other groups for a much needed local support. Many thanks to Isobel Stevenson, the local Alzheimer’s Scotland Adviser, for making it happen. Super proud moment for me today 🥰 - though I need to dust off the subtraction from 501 🎯😂

15/09/2025

Monday motivations……

A few years back after another unwelcome hospital stay and long recovery, I had to make some dietary changes . As a result of those efforts I’m very happy to say that I have almost halved my body fat content - it’s probably a wee bit on the low side tbh. ☺️

So how was it done? No strange diets, no drugs, no punishing regimes - just walking and a low fat diet (mostly 😉).

Society has become obsessed with looking external for answers and resources, most of the resources we often need to look after our health and wellbeing need to come from internal sources - resilience, motivation and a belief system that says I CAN.

Those that know my professional work know that I can’t isn’t allowed in my room 😂 . Very rarely is it that we can’t - it’s that we choose not to. Choice is ok, necessary, it sets healthy boundaries - but don’t hide behind it unless it is accurate.

Self belief and determination are 2 necessary pieces of the health puzzle - and both are free! Please push back against the avalanche of messages out there that external is the answer. It’s part of it yes, but it’s the much smaller part . Like the archway in the cliffs - dwarfed in size but isn’t it the most stunning part? It provides the gateway to a glimpse of what else is out there. Go find it 🥰

20/08/2025

Had to stand a few feet in front so I didn’t look so tiny in my flats 🤣🤣

🌟 Board Spotlight – Meet the Team! 🌟

At Caithness Mental Health Support Group, we are proud to be guided by a dedicated Board of Directors who share a passion for supporting mental health and wellbeing in our community. 💚

📸 In this photo:
➡️ Front – Elaine Cameron (Chairperson)
➡️ Left to Right (back row) – Matthew Reiss, Ian McElroy, Angus McInnes and Craig Edwards.

Together, they bring a wealth of experience, insight and commitment to ensuring CMHSG continues to grow, thrive and provide vital support through The Haven and Stepping Stones.👏

29/07/2025

13/06/2025

Help S V HUMPHREYS raise money to support Caithness Mental Health Support Group

08/06/2025

Been very quiet on here in recent months. Been preparing and then completing a huge physical and mental challenge - The West Highland Way! Completed last weekend and been reflecting on what the achievement means to me.

Being asked to go along was a turning point in a very very difficult year for me last year. I’m always banging on about focus 😄 This became mine to help me adjust to the new normal in my life and cope with grief and loss.

The true majestic beauty of our countryside - the rawness and power of nature and how it heals us . It was breathtaking - even when lashing rain and blowing a hoolie 😅

All 97 miles up and down and roond aboot! It was tough 🥵, there were dips but determination never waivered. The only person who doubted me was myself, that old gremlin of self doubt many of us carry around in life.

I learned to reconnect with the healing of nature; to disconnect from the pace and intensity of modern life and taking it at a slower pace; keep moving even in tiny steps with plenty of stops; the emotional challenge of significant life transitions needs treated with self care and kindness. Finally the importance of experiencing the moments in time that really touch your soul - something I carry forward with me as I rebalance my life and focus on the things that matter most.

29/04/2025

Come along and try out Iain's health and wellbeing taster session. If interested drop us an email at info@cmhsg.org

This Thursday (1st May) at 10.30am - free 😊.

12/04/2025

Saturday morning yoga stretch in the sun has turned in to a different downward dog 🐶🥰😂😂

30/03/2025

Today is a celebration of all things ‘mums’. It can also be an incredibly hard day for those who are grieving for loved ones lost, broken relationships with, and for those whose desire to be a mum is unfulfilled.

Seek moments of comfort if you need them, and celebrate moments of joy where you can. Never underestimate the power of a smile or a hug.

Both our centres are open today, staffed by a number of wonderful mums who are giving up their afternoons to support others. Drop in if you need a bit of company today. 💕

17/02/2025

Today marks 20 years since the fateful day I ended up fighting for life on life support. In the blink of an eye everything you had planned and dreamed of changes course forever. The overwhelming shock and the impact of severe trauma as many battles were faced over the years takes it toll mentally and physically.

I have spend the last 14 of those years dedicating my work life to understanding trauma and using my personal experience and professional knowledge to help and support others who find themselves in positions that I know only too well. Even though I fought so hard to stay alive I can still sit alongside those who fight just as hard to survive each day when all feels lost.

It has been peppered with many losses and adaptions to each challenge. Battered and bruised but also resolutely determined to not let each define the course of life.

The last few years have been one long battle with health and navigating the pain of a loved one with dementia. Watching others suffer must be one of the hardest journeys of life. Some wounds are deeper than others, but yet all scars eventually heal whilst leaving permanent marks as reminders.

So as I mark my 20 years ‘extra’ I remember what has been accomplished, the skills I have learned, the new paths I have eagerly explored, my story is of resilience and survival.

What sits behind it is a story of love, kindness, courage, determination, hope and friendship. So I leave you with the news I have accepted the role of Chairperson of Caithness Mental Health Support Group. A charity dedicated to helping those who just need to be heard and belong. To continue to use my voice to help those who, for whatever reason, are unable to find theirs. The next stage of the unpredictable journey of life !
Feel free to share x

12/02/2025

🌟 Looking for a cosy spot to boost your wellbeing and connect with others? 🌟

🎯 The Haven (Wick and surrounding areas)
🎯 Stepping Stones (Thurso and surrounding areas)

Pop in for tea, coffee, a hot meal or just good chat.

🎱 Pool & Darts
🎨 Arts & Crafts
🃏 Cards & Scrabble.. and so much more!

💬 Why not check us out and brighten your day?

Let's create a community of care, laughter and support. See you soon! ☕🎉

31/01/2025

I think that sums up January 😂 Roll on February!