Hi, I’m James.

With over 20 years of experience as a Mental Health Social Worker and senior leader in the NHS, I have dedicated my career to empowering individuals to realise their full potential—both personally and professionally.

At Optimal Health Strategies, we believe that true health begins with recognising self-worth, embracing individual strengths, and understanding that we have the power to shape our own journeys.

Registered with Social Work England. Reg: SW36105


Our Approach

Inspirational message on a black letter board: 'YOU DIDNT COME THIS FAR TO ONLY COME THIS FAR'.

Our approach to coaching is grounded in the belief that timely, personalised guidance can not only prevent costly interventions but also empower individuals to manage their health proactively. Our coaches bring specialised expertise in supporting individuals to understand their health needs, identifying and building on personal strengths for optimal functioning.

Through a strengths-based and solution focused approach we help clients overcome individual challenges with confidence and self-sufficiency. this leads to a deeper understanding of their needs and significantly improves success in achieving health goals. By addressing each client’s unique journey, we create a more responsive, effective alternative to long waits and generic solutions.


The Why.

A Vision for Meaningful Change

In today’s world, health isn’t just about reacting to problems—it’s about proactively engaging in our own wellbeing. Over the years, I’ve seen the cracks in our system widen, with too many people struggling to access support before their challenges become crises. It became clear to me that early intervention isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s essential. People need first-line health defense—a structured, accessible way to engage with their wellbeing before issues escalate into something more complex and costly.

That’s why I founded Optimal Health Strategies (OHS)—to bridge the gap between diagnosis and real, meaningful change. Our past experiences shape us, but they don’t have to define us. Coaching is about recognising where we’ve been while focusing on where we are now and where we want to go next. We all have our strengths, our ‘best bits’—those aspects of ourselves that help us thrive. But we also have the things we struggle with, the challenges that can hold us back. At OHS, we acknowledge those difficulties, work on them, and find ways to grow without being stuck in old narratives.

What makes this approach work? Active listening and motivational interviewing. Real change happens when people feel heard, understood, and supported—not judged. That’s why our approach isn’t about telling people what to do, but about helping them uncover their own answers, in a way that fits their life, strengths, and goals. Whether it’s managing ADHD, improving mental resilience, or simply finding a way to function at their best, we focus on practical, actionable strategies that lead to real results.

This isn’t just a business—it’s a movement toward proactive, preventative health care. The future of well-being isn’t waiting for things to fall apart before acting; it’s about equipping people with the tools, support, and confidence to navigate life on their terms. At OHS, we’re making that future a reality—one person at a time.

Snowboarder standing on snowy mountain peak, mountains in background.