Hi, I'm Joel - Founder of Vitality Health Coaching

As a qualified MSW Social Worker, BSc Psychologist, and certified Health Coach, I bring over 9 years of experience in mental health and substance misuse to the work I do every day. I specialize in helping individuals navigate their recovery journey and improve their mental, with a particular focus on overcoming anxiety and depression. 

What fuels my passion for this work isn’t just my professional background; it’s my own personal story. I’ve walked a similar path, and I know how challenging it can feel to move forward when life feels overwhelming. That’s why I’ve dedicated my career to empowering others with the tools and support they need to thrive.

In 2014, I began my Master’s degree in Social Work. It was an exciting time, but also one of immense personal struggle. Almost as soon as my studies began, I found myself battling severe anxiety and depression. For much of my degree, I felt lost, overwhelmed, and unsure of how to move forward. My turning point came with the birth of my first daughter—a moment that sparked the beginning of my recovery journey.

After earning my degree, I began working in community mental health. The role was rewarding but incredibly demanding: long hours, high caseloads, relentless deadlines, and constant pressure. It often left me questioning, “Why aren’t people getting better? Why are mental health services always in crisis?” While systemic challenges like professional burnout and lack of resources were part of the answer, I felt there was something deeper to uncover.

A Turning Point: Lessons from Covid-19

When Covid-19 arrived, it disrupted the way mental health services operated. Surprisingly, this brought about some positive changes—like slowing down our pace and embracing virtual platforms to connect with clients more efficiently. For me, it also brought something invaluable: time. Time to reflect, learn, and dig deeper into understanding mental health recovery.

During this period, I began questioning the over-reliance on the medical model in mental health services. Why was medication often the default approach, with little emphasis on other factors like lifestyle, nutrition, and exercise? This isn’t to dismiss the role of medication—it’s an important tool for many—but I realized that true recovery requires a more holistic approach.

As someone who has always been passionate about exercise—football, boxing, yoga, running, you name it—I began to truly appreciate its power as a mental health tool. I often tell people, “Exercise is the world’s most underused antidepressant.”

At the same time, I started to explore the role of nutrition in mental health. I transitioned from a diet of ultra-processed foods to one focused on clean, whole foods. The changes in both my physical and mental health were profound. This journey inspired me to complete a naturopathic health coaching course, equipping me with the tools to guide others in transforming their lives.

Through my experiences, I’ve come to understand that mental health recovery is not one-size-fits-all. It requires addressing the whole person—mind, body, and environment. True healing happens when we combine evidence-based techniques with lifestyle adjustments tailored to individual needs.

This means recognizing the value of therapy and medication while integrating other essential elements like physical activity, nutrition, stress management, and meaningful connections. By taking this holistic approach, I’ve seen remarkable transformations in myself and others, reaffirming my belief that recovery is achievable with the right support and strategies.

I am deeply passionate about helping people recover from their mental health problems. Nothing motivates me more than witnessing someone make positive changes and build a happy, healthy life. As someone who has faced my own struggles and come out the other side, I feel privileged to now be in a position to support others on their mental health journeys. I have the tools, the knowledge, and the lived experience to guide individuals through their challenges. My mission is to share this with the world and help as many people as possible achieve their own recovery and vitality.