We sat down with Associate and forthcoming webinar presenter Stayce Gibson to learn about her and her experiences to date as a Thornfields trainer and primary care professional. 

Q. Tell us a bit about yourself, and what your areas of expertise are in your role as a Thornfields trainer / associate?

My name is Stayce Gibson – soon to legally be changed over to Stayce Stratford-Zake. My star sign is Virgo. I am 35 years old; I have one daughter and 3 stepsons. I like to spend time with family, take walks and eat food. My area of expertise is in mental health, I am skilled in critical thinking and problem solving. I assess complex situations and identify barriers to progress. I am good at active listening & encourage self-compassion.

Q. How did you come to be a Thornfields Associate?

I became a Thornfield’s associate by receiving training at my place of work. I used to provide workshops for young people and was very interested in stepping back into training workshops, but in a different light this time.

Q. How did you feel when you first started, and what advice would you have today for new trainers or those considering the role?

I felt very excited when I first started and was very happy with how flexible Thornfield’s were to accommodate me. My advice would be, stay open – be confident. Be conscious of what you wish to deliver and the impact you would like it to have.

Q. And now, as an experienced trainer, what are your feelings about the role?

My feelings about the role are very proud and happy. I personally still feel very excited to provide the workshop and check in with Thornfield’s employees for support and feedback. I would most certainly like to continue this role and take it further.

Q. What have the main changes been since you became a trainer for us?

I have not been a trainer for too long, but the main changes have been working at home outside of my usual working hours. I really enjoy it. I like having what feels like a second job – one that requires thought and challenge to keep people engaged.

Q. What one thing would you tell yourself now if you could go back in time to the start of your career?

I would tell myself – keep trying your best!

Q. Is there a particular individual who has had a big impact on your career, or your role as a trainer, that you’d like to thank?

I would like to thank Gerry Devine – he has been most helpful and kind. 

Q. How would you sum up the Thornfields team? What do you put Thornfield’s success in the marketplace down to?

I don’t know many people from the Thornfield’s team yet – just a few. They are all great and very supportive. I imagine their success has been down to hard work and consistency.

Q. And finally… how do you relax at the end of a busy day?

I relax after a busy day by eating nice food, putting a film or TV series on – or a book. Anything to escape my own life and jump into another so I can be distracted (or I would not stop thinking about my past, present or future...)