About

We are a charity organisation, supporting the community by providing low-cost and free counselling. With your support we can continue to provide essential listening services to the people who need it most.

CFM was founded in 1983 when Gordon Clarke, a psychologist, felt compelled to offer a free counselling and caring service to churches and the wider community. Very quickly a team grew around Gordon and CFM was formed. Over the years, CFM has been a much-needed help and support to hundreds of individuals, couples and families, often with complex needs.

The small CFM team is currently made up of a variety of people with diverse qualifications, backgrounds and experiences. The most important common factors that bring the team together are that we are active Christians, committed to providing the best possible service for our clients.

OUR TEAM

DAVID BENJAMIN

Manager

David qualified as a therapist focusing on trauma and adoption issues, after working for 30 years in the chemical industry. During this time, he also volunteered with several organisations in youth and prison work.

He took over leadership of CFM in May 2021, and aims to build on what has already been accomplished over the last three decades. He loves working with CFM and has great trust in the team around him.

Outside work, David's passion is music, and he plays several instruments and piano in a band.

LESLEY WITHERDEN

Referrals and admin

Lesley worked in civil service for 26 years before retraining as a counsellor then joining CFM to gain more experience. After qualifying as a counsellor Lesley remained at CFM as a volunteer and administrator.

She is passionate about working with CFM and gets great fulfilment from seeing how the counselling clients receive enhances their lives.

Your Journey with CFM

Starting your journey with CFM is easy. When you ring the phone number, Lesley will have an informal, confidential chat with you about your situation and requirements. The phone isn't staffed all of the time, so if we don't answer, don't worry. Please leave a message with your name and number and Lesley will ring you back. Following this first conversation your needs will be discussed with David, and the right counsellor will be assigned to you. Your counsellor will get in touch with you to arrange your first appointment. Sessions cost £15 each, and are free for people receiving Universal Credit.

CFM is affiliated to the Association of Counsellors who are Christians and Linked Professions (ACC) and operates within the ACC code of practice and ethics.