Richard Pyke

Human Givens Practitioner

I am a trainee Human Givens practitioner based in the UK. While I have a special interest in supporting men’s mental health, in my clinic location, my practice online is currently focusing on anxiety-related swallowing and speaking problems.

As I progress through the final stage of my training, I am currently working with clients experiencing stress around swallowing foods and confidence-related challenges. During this transitional period between Stage II and Stage III of qualification, I am not able to charge for sessions. Instead, I ask for a voluntary contribution of £20 per session to help cover online and technical costs.

Background

My journey into the world of mental health support began at age 18, when I volunteered with a youth counselling and advice service in Reading. This early experience sparked a deep interest in therapeutic work and laid the foundation for my future path.

During my time as a student at Oxford Polytechnic, I volunteered with the university's Student Nightline service, later becoming its director in 1984. Wanting to build on this experience, I completed a Combined Certificate in Counselling Skills and Theory (CSCT) and began volunteering with the Samaritans. These opportunities helped me strengthen my listening skills and develop an empathic, person-centred approach.

Over the years, I went on to take on leadership roles within the Samaritans, including Deputy Director, Trainer, and Caller Care Coordinator. I played a key role in mentoring and training new volunteers, ensuring they had the tools and insight to support those in emotional distress.

My approach to therapy is grounded in the Human Givens framework and guided by a sincere commitment to supporting others with compassion, clarity, and care. I am continually inspired by the positive changes this approach can bring to people’s lives.

This process is ideal to help individuals overcome phagophobia, pseudo dysphagia and speaking anxiety. Using knowledge gained in neuroscience, we know that the use of the soothing toolkit combined with visualisation can help the brain make the changes it needs.

Membership

I am a trainee member of the Human Givens Institute

https://www.humangivens.com/