Mike leads MJO Wellbeing Services Ltd, a counselling practice based in Cawdor.

 

His approach is calm, grounded and relational, offering adults, children and young people a steady space to explore what may feel difficult or uncertain.

 

Hi, I’m Mike Ogden (he/him). For over 25 years I have worked alongside children and young people across primary and secondary education. My background includes pastoral leadership and youth justice, experiences that have shaped my understanding of behaviour, belonging and emotional safety.

 

I grew up in Manchester and have worked across education and pastoral roles in different parts of the UK. After many years of visiting family in the Highlands, I made the move to Cawdor in 2022 and now call it home, continuing my work supporting children, young people and adults.

 

I hold an HND in Counselling and a Diploma in Counselling Children and Young People. Based in Cawdor, near Inverness, I offer professional counselling for adults and counselling with Play as Therapy for children and young people, supporting clients across the Highlands, both in person and online.

 

Supporting Behaviour and Belonging

 

In a previous role, I led an initiative that improved behaviour and attendance across Years 7 to 11, achieving a 33 percent reduction in low-level incidents and a 45 percent reduction in high-level incidents.

 

This work centred on understanding what sat underneath behaviour, identifying patterns and triggers, and working relationally with young people and staff to create meaningful, practical change.

 

Multi-Agency Experience

 

Throughout my career, I have supported children and young people facing anxiety, bullying, family breakdown, identity questions and challenges linked to autism, ADHD and other additional support needs.

 

I have worked alongside parents, educational psychologists, CAMHS, school nurses and social workers, contributing to joined-up conversations while maintaining clear professional boundaries.

 

Practice Philosophy

 

At the core of my work is relationship.

 

I believe growth happens when people feel seen, heard and supported. Trust is not assumed, it is built.

 

Whether working with adults or young people, I bring consistency, compassion and steadiness to the therapeutic space.

 

Lived Experience and Ongoing Development

 

My own experiences have shaped my commitment to equity, reflection and continual learning.

I remain engaged in ongoing professional development and personal reflection to ensure my practice remains thoughtful, ethical and responsive.

I am fully insured and a member of the PVG Scheme for work with children and adults.

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Small steps. Steady growth.

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