staff

STAFF

Meet the compassionate and experienced professionals who form the backbone of our clinic. Learn more about the dedicated team that will stand by your side throughout your journey of recovery.

PROMIS STAFF

Our team are at the heart of everything we offer. We select a team who have a very diverse range of skills, styles, experience and personalities. Clients are with us for a relatively short time, and we know that it is easier to work with someone you like so you are free to choose who you would prefer to work with. Equally, each of the different professions has different ways of working, a different set of tools and a different lens through which they view solutions. By working with an integrated team, these skills can be blended to give you the best help from each perspective.

MANAGEMENT

Robin Lefever

ROBIN LEFEVER

Robin Lefever has a BSc in Psychology from the University of Kent and is the Managing Director of PROMIS Clinics. Having been a part of the PROMIS Research Group, Robin has been published in articles and papers in international scientific journals and presented research at international addiction conferences. Robin is also a skilled therapist, and his clinical interests include a wide range of therapies, including EMDR, EAP, Psychodrama, Group Therapy, Family Therapy and Early Interventions.


LUCY BRITTON

I’m Lucy Britton, and I head up the admissions team here at PROMIS. We are the first point of contact for people phoning to enquire about treatment at our clinics. We are here to listen to an individual’s story, assess their situation and requirements and then advise how best we can help with their recovery.

As well as being a trained therapist with an Advanced Diploma in Humanistic Integrative Counselling.

I am also part of the management team, managing ‘behind-the-scenes” aspects as well as developing
nurturing relationships with professionals in our field.

For me, it’s a privilege to work for an organisation like PROMIS with its family history, open-minded and
ethical ethos, and diversity of therapies and treatment programmes. I’ve visited other clinics in this country, and as far as I know, nobody is delivering the same service, especially with regard to offering 1:1 therapy every single day. I love that! 18 years into my own recovery, and it is incredibly meaningful to use my experiences to help other people going through similar struggles.


CHESTER PAGE

MEDICAL

DR PARDEEP GREWAL

Dr Grewal is a consultant psychiatrist and clinical expert in the area of addictions and general psychiatry. He was Clinical Lead for north London NHS addiction services for 10 years and then Divisional Clinical Director for mental health services until 2023. He has established NHS services for people with complex mental health issues. In addition to undergraduate degrees in Medicine (Bart’s and the London Medical School) and Neuroscience (UCL), he has an MSc in Addictions (Merit) from Institute of Psychiatry (Kings College London).

In 2016, in recognition of his contribution to psychiatry, Dr Grewal was awarded Fellowship to The Royal College of Psychiatrists. Since 2014 he has been Member of the Academy of Medical Educators and honorary clinical lecturer at UCL Medical School. He is also assistant professor, St George’s University, Grenada. He has published numerous academic papers. Dr Grewal was a previously Medical Director for a private sector national addictions service in England. He was Specialist Advisor for the Care Quality Commission between 2015 and 2021. He currently works in private practice and also in the NHS. His NHS consultant role is with CQC ‘excellent’ rated East London NHS Foundation Trust.

DR FILIPPO PASSETTI

Filippo studied medicine in Florence (Italy), before completing a PhD in Experimental Psychology in Cambridge. He then trained in clinical psychiatry, in Cambridge and London, with a plan to apply methods from Experimental Psychology in the clinic. During lectureships at the Royal Free & UCL and at St. George’s Medical School, he investigated neuropsychological abnormalities associated with addictive disorders, which could be used to guide treatment decisions in addiction.

After working for a few years as consultant in psychiatrist in the NHS, Filippo moved to private practice some ten years ago. During this time, he has developed special interests in resilience, stress-related disorders, gambling addiction and psychedelic medicine for treatment-resistant disorders.

Dr Sarah Maginn

DR SARAH MAGINN

I’m a consultant psychiatrist here at PROMIS, a member of the Royal College of Psychiatrists with over 25 years experience in a wide range of mental disorders with a specific interest in ADHD.

When a client comes to Hay Farm, I conduct a thorough psychiatric assessment to enable the team of therapists to determine the most effective treatment plan for them.

What I love about my work here at PROMIS is the diversity of our guests, all from different backgrounds and requiring specific methods of treatment. What’s amazing about the clinic is the opportunity to experience a wide range of therapies available.


DR LAIMONAS GONCARAS MD

Dr Laimonas Goncaras (Dr Liam) has worked since 2007 as a General Practitioner at The Medical Centre in Maidstone, Kent. Dr Liam graduated from Kaunas University of Medicine (Lithuania) in 2003. He endeavoured in further education in England and obtained a Postgraduate Diploma in Medicine (Newcastle University), Prescribing (Greenwich University) and Dermatology (Queens Mary University, London). He also obtained Substance Misuse Part 1 and Part 2 Diplomas from the Royal College of General Practice and is a proud member of the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP). Since the early days of his career, he has been a very keen player in the Substance Misuse Services in Kent, running a Shared Care Service (methadone and suboxone) for his practice patients and also being a member of a Steering Group with KCA. Dr Liam advises other primary care physicians and doctors on substance misuse, painkillers and appropriate prescribing.

HAY FARM THERAPISTS

CLAYTON GRANT

I started my professional career in 2013, studying at the University of South Africa, and have dedicated myself to the field of addiction ever since. In South Africa, I worked in residential treatment facilities for nine years before relocating to the UK.

I joined PROMIS at the start of the pandemic. It’s a place where I can really be myself and use the experience of my own recovery to help those in a similar situation and help them drive their own recovery.

My approach to therapy is based on the values of Compassion, Empathy, Honesty, Patience and Integrity. I’m particularly passionate about EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), an effective psychotherapy method to help people recover from trauma and PTSD symptoms.

Outside of work, I enjoy simple, grounded things like walking my dog and exploring new towns and villages.


JANET HAND


SARAH CHRYSTAL

Whilst studying for a MSc in Addiction Counselling my area of particular interest became childhood developmental trauma. This relates to how the coping mechanisms we tended to resort to in our younger years are carried forward into our adult life and affect our daily behaviour. This is what I explore extensively with my clients.

Trauma is also often stored in the body and so, in addition to cleansing the mind, I believe in working with the body in the same way. Incorporating meditation and yoga into treatment can be very beneficial. This holistic approach to therapy was very much shaped by the time I spent in Thailand, India and Bali practising yoga with a variety of teachers.

The benefit of working alongside such a diversity of therapists at Hay Farm is the inspiration I gain from all the different skills, styles and experiences. I have faith in the healing power of nature and this is ever present here at Hay Farm.


CLAUDIA VAU


KERRY NOLAN

I qualified 11 years ago as a therapist and have extensive experience in helping people recover from trauma.

Working within a team of other highly experienced therapists, I help to shape and put into action a daily personal treatment plan for our guests here, facilitating group sessions and 1:1’s where guests can feel safe and be open about their feelings. It’s so important that people feel they can be themselves at the clinic so they can make progress and change in their lives.

What I love about working here is the beautiful setting of the clinic, the lovely team and the privilege of being part of our guests’ journey into recovery. I learn something from every individual I spend time with here.


SARA PINI


TOM BENSLEY

HOLLYANNE ROBERTS



SIAN CARPENTER


AISHWARYA JOSHI (ASH)


SIMON HICKS


LUCY MOORHEAD

I have an MSc in Psychotherapy from the University of Kent and have worked as a therapist for over 20 years.

In my therapy sessions, I use a solution-focused approach that facilitates personal development by helping individuals form new patterns of thought and behaviour. This approach is particularly beneficial as it encourages positive change and resilience by focusing on strengths and solutions rather than problems.

The holistic, humanistic and spiritual approach to my 1:1 session has, rather amusingly, earned me the title of ‘Mystic Lucy’ from the clients here at Hay Farm.

I find it immensely rewarding working at PROMIS, helping clients to realise their recovery hopes and witnessing their journey progress.


CHARLOTTE BROSTER

I facilitate cold-water therapy sessions and weekly journaling groups here at Hay Farm.

Hay Farm is a very grounding and nurturing place, and I feel blessed to be a part of it and contribute to the holistic treatment here.

HAY FARM NURSING

HAZEL LYDON

With a Psychology degree & Nursing degree from Southampton University, I am now a mental health nurse and trainee therapist here at Hay Farm. I am very often the first person our guests meet when they arrive at the clinic. My priority is to assess initial clinical needs and help to settle them in their room. I am a source of support throughout their stay, dispensing medication and assisting them with any worries or discomfort on a daily basis.

I’m passionate about giving people as much freedom as possible during their treatment for addiction and other mental health disorders, enabling them to be in charge of their recovery, and that’s something we do really well here at PROMIS.

For me, the best thing about working here is the non-clinical environment within the beautiful countryside which not only gives our guests a peaceful place to recover but also allows me to bring my pug Mr Darcy to work! Animals are a real passion of mine and in my spare time I am a volunteer dog walker for elderly or ill people who aren’t able to walk their pets.


NATALIE ASH

I’m Natalie, I’m usually the first person guests meet when they arrive at Hay Farm. I understand how apprehensive people may be coming to the clinic and I’m here to make them feel relaxed and comfortable. I take my time to settle them and make things as simple as possible for them so they don’t feel overwhelmed by the process. Throughout their stay, I administer medication and I’m always here to talk things through and give support.

The best thing about working here is the actual farm itself. The outdoor space is beautiful. I’m also really grateful for the opportunity to help people lay a good foundation for their path to recovery.

Outside of work, I enjoy interior design and love upcycling furniture. Singing and dancing when nobody is watching also makes me very happy!


CHRIS ROWBOTHAM

I have over 30 years experience working in mental health and addiction recovery. Im often the first point of contact for clients being admitted for treatment. I undertake the clinical observations, risk assessment and formulate an initial 72 hour care plan whilst liaising with the doctor.

When it comes to recovery, | believe everyone is on an equal footing and everyone should be treated as an individual. Im proud to work in a team of compassionate and diligent staff who support individuals who, when arriving at the clinic, may be physically and emotionally broken. It is so positive watching peoples wellbeing improve over a course of weeks and seeing them move forward with their lives.

lam well known for having a very needy codependent Staffie dog called Lemmy who often comes to work
with me and enjoys having his tummy rubbed by therapists and clients alike.

ADMISSIONS TEAM

GILLY MARSHALL

I joined PROMIS due to its intimate, family-like atmosphere and serve as your Admissions Officer. My academic background includes a first-class degree in Counselling, Coaching & Mentoring from Canterbury Christ Church University, paired with a substantial history in Customer Service. This combination has honed my listening skills, crucial for my current role where sensitivity and attentiveness are paramount.

Day-to-day, I field incoming calls from potential clients and their families, often reaching out during some of life’s most challenging moments. I am thankful that I can be there for those taking their first step whilst also being able to hear about their progress and growth after leaving our clinic.

In terms of therapy and recovery, my ethos revolves around the power of time and listening. Everyone’s journey is unique, and providing a space where individuals feel heard and understood is integral to initiating healing and recovery.

I live on the coast and so away from work, I like to take walks along the seafront as I find the sea air therapeutic. I also enjoy music and can often be found at The 1975 gigs.

HAY FARM TEAM

ADAM SMITH

I really enjoy being part of a clinic which can play such an instrumental part in our guests’ future. I’m a strong believer that recovery is not possible in isolation. Support from others is an absolute necessity. People need other people!

Outside of work, I’m a very enthusiastic photographer and videographer. Gardening is also a great love of mine. I enjoy making unique terrariums and I’m prone to rescuing drooping plants at garden centres and nursing them back to life.


MARK SMISSEN

As the chef, I manage the daily running of the kitchen. I plan the menu each day, giving the guests three options for lunch and dinner, taking into account any special dietary requirements. Establishing healthy eating habits is associated with improving mental health, and so we put fresh, nourishing and high-quality food at the foundation of our guests’ care.

We only use natural sugars in our recipes, incorporating unsweetened jams, bananas, dates, mangoes, sultanas and fresh fruit into our homemade desserts. Our ethos is to use local suppliers, sourcing our ingredients within a radius of 30 miles, and my latest project was to clear an area of overgrown land to create a seasonal vegetable garden.

It’s always nice when a guest pokes their head around the kitchen door to tell us they’ve had a great meal. To be able to inspire people to love food once again and even incorporate simple recipes into their recovery is very rewarding. I enjoy working within the calm environment of the clinic and to “do what I love”.


TRACY DARRALL

I am a part of the housekeeping team here, ensuring the farm remains immaculately clean.

It has been my responsibility to manage infection control during the pandemic and also conducting regular Legionnaires assessments. Nothing is too much trouble when it comes to looking after our guests, and I want them to feel as though they can approach me and ask me anything. I’ve been here for 10 years and love the variety of the role. On a typical day I could be meeting the Farrier, serving lunches, cleaning and refilling the hot tub, arranging flowers and changing beds. Every day is different.

Whilst I take my job very seriously, I love cheering up our guests if they’re having a low day, listening to their concerns and offering small comforts like a round of hot toast. I have a real love for dogs and am always happy when our guests bring their dog to stay.


MARK MILSON

I’m Mark and I’m in charge of caring for the Hay Farm site, ensuring that it operates smoothly on a daily basis. Basically, I’m really good at fixing things!

On a typical day I could be attending to a drainage issue, painting and decorating, carrying out some carpentry or building a wall. I am always available to provide solutions to our guests’ issues, helping with things as small as a forgotten phone charger but I find that these little things can make a big difference to our guests’ stay.

I am known for having a real fascination with the goldfish in the pond. At two o’clock each afternoon, you’ll find me feeding them! This is a beautiful environment to work in and I take great pride in making it look even better than it already naturally is.

LONDON THERAPY

SONYA PAUL

I’m responsible for the day-to-day running of our London clinic and overseeing the therapeutic programme. I also work with our clients on a 1:1 basis and facilitate group sessions. As someone in recovery, this has undoubtedly inspired my passion for helping people who have issues with addiction. I am naturally drawn to our clients who have co-occurring conditions, such as Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD); because of this I am keen to explore Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), which can help treat personality disorders and interpersonal conflicts.

I enjoy working in the rehab environment where everyday is different, engaging with a diverse range of clients and colleagues. At PROMIS, we recognise how the problems our clients face are individual and we work alongside them, helping them to build a personal, solid foundation which will give them the best chance of achieving their goals when they leave the clinic.

Working at PROMIS is extremely rewarding, providing me with a fantastic opportunity to learn and develop my own skills and personal growth.


PAULINA ROMANI


JAMIE BLOCH


SIMON BROOKS


VERONIKA RAKLI


ROB GLASER

LONDON NURSING

RACHEL WEDGE


RAHMA OSMAN

LONDON TEAM

GABI FERENCE


MOHAMED FARIS

My 25-year career as a chef has taken me around the world. I started out in Paris studying International Cuisine before going on to live and work in Vienna, Austria and Kiev, Ukraine. After that, I moved to New York and worked at the Rainforest Cafe. When the company opened a restaurant in London, I relocated once again for the role of Executive Head Chef. During my time in the capital, I have also studied Hotel and Catering Management & Cooking at Westminster College and was very privileged to work in the city during the exciting event of the 2012 Olympics.

When I came to PROMIS in 2014, I saw a wonderful opportunity to apply my knowledge of nutrition to create balanced meals which are associated with improved mental health. We avoid white flour and sugar, steering our guests towards healthier options such as gluten-free/brown rice and pasta. I’m proud to say that we source our ingredients daily and avoid freezing our food to ensure everything is as fresh as possible.

Aside from doing what I love, another rewarding aspect of the role at the clinic is the chance to form connections with our guests and develop an understanding of their situation.

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