My name is Michael, and I’m passionate about helping people develop a more conscious and integrated experience of themselves and others. My work focuses on supporting individuals in healing the difficulties that may be blocking their growth, and in reconnecting with the various dimensions of being human: emotionally, mentally, physically, relationally, and spiritually. I do this through psychotherapy, EMDR, coaching, supervision, workshops, and retreats.
I identify as a queer gay man, and this experience is central to how I show up in my work, with sensitivity to identity, difference, and belonging. It informs my approach in my work, particularly when supporting clients around gender, sexuality, relationships, and marginalisation. I strive to offer a space that is affirming, inclusive, and open to the complexities of identities and experiences.
Originally from Malta, I have lived in six different countries and have been actively committed to both personal and professional development for over 25 years. I bring this depth of lived experience to the way I work with clients from diverse backgrounds and life situations.
I am a highly experienced and qualified psychotherapist (licensed in Malta), EMDR therapist, clinical supervisor, ICF-qualified coach, Somatic Sexuality practitioner, educator, and trainer. I hold specialisations in trauma therapy, psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, as well as in sexual and gender diversity, and I integrate a broad range of psychotherapeutic and somatic methods in my practice.
Throughout my career, I have worked across a range of mental health sectors and client groups. Notably, I held a clinical management role at the London Fire Brigade, overseeing trauma services. I have also lectured, tutored, and supervised on Master’s degree programmes in psychotherapy and psychology, and continue to engage in ongoing study from an integrative and holistic perspective.
In addition to therapy and coaching, I offer professional supervision and facilitate workshops, retreats, and training programmes for both organisations and practitioner groups. I incorporate mindfulness practices with a somatic focus, and I am especially interested in the relationship between embodiment, sexuality, and psychological growth. I am the founder and director of Forging Paths where we are a team of psychotherapists and coaches offering our services. I also founded Orange Bodies, which offers occasional workshops and courses on sexuality, embodiment, and body-based practices.
I am trained in ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, and I also support individuals in preparing for and integrating experiences of altered states of consciousness. Together with the psychotherapist Joan Sirera we founded Conscious Growth where we offer legal psilocybin retreats in the Netherlands, focusing on deep personal transformation through guided psychedelic experiences.
I’m also the author of the self-development journaling book, Living Better with Yourself: A Practical Guide to Embodied Growth. It’s designed as a tool for both self-reflection and professional accompaniment, and can be used either independently or alongside therapy or coaching. The book is available in both paperback and e-book formats through major online retailers. You can read more about the book or order your copy here.
Professional Experience
My professional background includes a wide range of clinical, educational, and supervisory roles:
Qualifications and Education
Memberships and Accreditations
I am a registered and licensed member of the following professional bodies: