Talked Spotlight: Interview with Daniel Anear

Name: Daniel Anear

Age: 38

Years practising: 3

Specialty: Life Transitions, Relationship Issues and Marriage Issues

Please describe yourself in 20 words or less.

I like to think I'm warm and approachable, a family man, fascinated by human psychology, philosophy and spirituality.

What is a hobby you love to do in your spare time?

I love to ride electric skateboards in my spare time.

Why did you choose this career path?

The catalyst for becoming a therapist and ultimately a couples therapist was my parent's separation when I was 17. The separation wasn't something I saw coming and as such really knocked me about at a formative time of my development. This experience work me up to the importance of emotions and self-care and birthed an empathy to help others. Shortly after I also had a number of people in my life who experienced sexual trauma and my inability to know how to help solidified my desire to become a therapist.

Tell me about one experience which has kept you doing what you’re doing.

Having a couple return for a session and report that they are doing well, that communication has improved, arguing has reduced. The most heartwarming feeling was when they told me that they generally felt happier with themselves and their relationship. It is moments like these that make my job worthwhile.

What is one piece of general advice that you would give to a client starting out their mental health journey?

The old advice of taking one day at a time may sound cliché however there is much truth in this adage often we can be too hard on ourselves. I would also add that just like life, recovery, healing and/or growth is not a linear process. However, with the right strategies and mindset, it is possible.

If you weren’t doing what you were doing, what career would you have pursued?

Honestly, it would probably be something similar but in the area of education. I have a background in mental health education and currently run a podcast however I don't get to do this as much as I'd like. I'd happily be a University lecturer or educator in some similar context, I've also considered nutrition/herbal medicine as something I'd enjoy.

What is one item in your fridge that would surprise us?

The leftover birthday cake that's in the shape of a castle.

Is there anything about you that you would like clients who are reading to know?

I'm always happy to have a preliminary chat to see if we're a good fit and am not offended if you decide to not go ahead.

Book a Session

If you like what you have read about Daniel, you can organise a telehealth session. Daniel offers a free 15 minute consultation to help get you started.

This Talked Spotlight was based on an interview conducted in August 2021.

Talked Spotlight is our series where we interview the professionals who help make Talked the premier digital mental health platform. The views expressed are those of the interviewees, based on their experiences within the profession, and as such are not necessarily representative of Talked's views.