My journey to becoming a psychotherapist – Martha Burling, Renew BA graduate
We’re honoured to share a powerful and inspiring speech delivered by Renew graduate Martha Burling in her hometown of Watford. A graduate of Renew Counselling’s BA (Hons) in Counselling and Psychotherapy, Martha’s journey to becoming a psychotherapist and community leader is a testament to resilience and determination.
Here is her speech in full:
My Journey as a Therapeutic Counsellor
“It is an honour to be here today. I have lived in Watford for 24 years. Most of you will know me as that girl who used to speak on the Tannoy system in Asda! I’ve now grown, and my message to you today is simple: Do not feel comfortable in that chair. Do not believe that the colour of your skin is the reason that deprives you from growing.
I am living proof of that. From 2014 to 2018, I spoke on that Tannoy system at Asda Watford, serving most of you here. Many of you saw me in my green uniform, and I’m proud of it because it shaped the person I am today—a psychotherapist.
What many people didn’t know was that while working at Asda, I was also studying counselling. I spent five years in college and qualified as a Therapeutic Counsellor in 2019, specialising in mental health. After that, I launched my private practice, Imatter Counselling Therapy Networks.
Being the only Black student in my class wasn’t easy. When I first graduated with a Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy, I asked myself, “What now? Who’s going to employ me?” But something inside me said, “No. Arise and shine!” I hired an office in Regus Watford and started with nothing, but I kept going.
I didn’t stop there. I continued my education and, on 25th July this year, I graduated with a BA (Hons) in Counselling and Psychotherapy from Renew Counselling, in partnership with Anglia Ruskin University.
In addition to my work as a psychotherapist, I am the director of Imatter Health and Wellbeing Support CIC, an organisation I established after the COVID-19 pandemic. I realised that one-to-one therapy wasn’t suitable for everyone, so I created this community interest company to offer more accessible and diverse support for the people of Watford.
At Imatter Health and Wellbeing Support CIC, we promote the health and wellbeing of our community by running workshops on mental health awareness, resilience, and coping strategies, including mindfulness sessions. These workshops empower individuals to live in the present and navigate life’s challenges.
We also provide practical support by refurbishing donated furniture and offering it to families in need. Additionally, we give food and clothing to those experiencing hardship, including the homeless. Watford has been my home for 24 years, and through this organisation, I’m committed to giving back and creating a healthier, more connected community.
Mental Health Taboos in the Black Community
Today, I want to address mental health taboos in the Black community. Let’s start with a stark statistic: According to research published by the UK Government in August 2024, Black people were 3.5 times more likely than White people to be detained under the Mental Health Act, with 228 detentions per 100,000 Black people compared to 64 per 100,000 White people.
Why is this? I believe it’s partly because we, as Black people, often ignore the early signs of mental health challenges. Shame, cultural taboos, religious beliefs, fear of stigma, and personal pride act as barriers to seeking help.
We often hear statements like:
- “Nobody cares!”
- “It doesn’t matter.”
- Or the most painful of all: “Blacks don’t break.”
These words hurt because they perpetuate the myth that mental health struggles are a weakness—or something that doesn’t affect us. But mental health doesn’t discriminate based on race, community, or age.
If we’re to change the alarming statistics, we must reject these negative statements and work together as a community. Support is available, but we have to ask for it. Together, we can strive for good mental health and create a future where these taboos no longer hold us back.
Thank you.”
Reflecting on Martha’s Journey
Martha’s story is a shining example of resilience and determination. Her speech encourages communities to address mental health with openness and support.
At Renew, we are proud to celebrate voices like Martha’s that inspire us to break down barriers and strive for a more inclusive future.
If you’d like to learn more about Martha’s work, visit her organisation at Imatter Health and Wellbeing Support CIC.
For those inspired by Martha’s journey, our BA (Hons) in Counselling and Psychotherapy, delivered in partnership with Anglia Ruskin University, could be the next step in your counselling career. Find out more here or contact michelleallen@renew.org.uk
