The Consciousologist.

My name is Darren, and I am 50 years old. I reside in Hull, Yorkshire, England, where I have spent my entire life. I am an advocate for positive masculinity, raising awareness and reducing the stigma of men's mental health.

I am firmly convinced that external trappings of life are not the wellspring of happiness (this wasn't always the case!). Whether it is wealth, corporate employment, luxurious residences, high-speed automobiles, or extravagant attire, none of these external trappings ever truly bring peace. Instead, I discovered solace when I turned my gaze inward. This is not to suggest that we cannot derive enjoyment from life’s pleasures—whether it’s appreciating a fine car, creating a nice home, or savouring a cold beer. However, these external experiences are mere by-products of an existing sense of self-worth and inner joy, rather than a solution to inner turmoil and inherent unhappiness. They offer only transient relief to a problem that often eludes conscious recognition. Despite feeling unhappy, the underlying reasons remain elusive.

It is my aspiration that, upon arriving at this web page today, you may embark on your own transformative journey—an internal revolution that facilitates reconnection with your inner self. By delving into psychological and spiritual introspection, a deeper connection to the world around you can be forged, that you can find a glimmer of enlightenment, and the end to suffering. 

This psychological study of inner exploration, which I refer to as ‘Consciousology,’ holds the promise of enabling you to lead your best life and tap into a higher state of consciousness.

How can I be sure of all this? Well, because I've been through recovery, I know what it feels like to despair, and I can guide you to what it feel like to have hope again.

My inspiration draws from the work of Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung, psychotherapist's Nathaniel Branden, Carl Rodgers & Phil Stutz as well as explorations of spiritual perspectives offered by figures such as Eckhart Tolle, Thich Nhat Hanh , and philosophical viewpoints articulated by Alan Watts. More recently I have been inspired by books written by Brene Brown & Gabor Mate to name just a few.

I have a BSC Honours Degree in Psychology & Counselling and am registered with the British Psychological Society. I also have studied the following additional modules:

• Understanding Depression & Anxiety
• Challenging Ideas on Mental Health
• Making Sense of Mental Health Problems
• Attachment in The Early Years
• Mindfulness in Mental Health & The Prison System
• Psychological Development in The Early Years