Meet The Team
Meet the dedicated individuals behind Trauma Research UK
Trauma Research UK has a rich and diverse board of trustees who are responsible for the overall control and strategic direction of the charity. Our trustees work voluntarily, bringing a variety of different skills and life experiences on board.
Our volunteers and mentors bring a wealth of skills and experience to our team, coupled with a strong commitment to the charity. Each member has not only faced but also overcome various degrees of mental health challenges, adding invaluable depth to their dedicated compassion.
Nik Speakman
CEO & Co-Founder
Nik has dedicated over four decades to the study of human behaviour and psychology. His work is fuelled by an unrelenting passion to instil hope and empower individuals to live freer, more fulfilling lives. Renowned for his exceptional ability to help individuals overcome deeply entrenched trauma, Nik’s tireless commitment to transformative change led him to develop and co-develop three pioneering therapeutic approaches: Schema Conditioning Psychotherapy®, Visual Schema Displacement Therapy®, and Visual Schema Detachment & Restructuring.
These innovations catalysed formal academic engagement, including training psychology professors, clinicians, and postgraduate students at the Universities of Amsterdam and Utrecht. In 2015, this training facilitated two scientific studies into the mechanisms and outcomes of Visual Schema Displacement Therapy®, culminating in publication in the Journal of Behaviour Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry in June 2019. The findings demonstrated the therapy’s exceptional efficacy, outperforming EMDR, the World Health Organisation’s recommended treatment for trauma.
Further empirical validation followed: a third study was published in the European Journal of Psychotraumatology in April 2021, and a fourth, clinical study involving PTSD patients appeared in Frontiers in Psychiatry in March 2024. Each study reaffirmed the superior outcomes of Visual Schema Displacement Therapy® compared to EMDR.
Since 2010, Nik and his wife Eva have served as resident therapists on ITV’s multi-award-winning programme This Morning. In addition to working with members of the public, they have successfully treated numerous high-profile and A-list clients internationally, earning recognition for their outstanding therapeutic results.
Nik’s unwavering mission is to underscore a crucial truth: most mental health diagnoses originate in unresolved trauma. Thus, lasting recovery depends not on symptom management but on addressing the root cause. He is equally devoted to championing the power of hope, affirming that no matter how entrenched the struggle, meaningful change and a significantly enhanced quality of life are always within reach.
Russell Dean
Trustee
At the age of 20 Russ joined the police force, quickly finding himself in a large-scale disorder between two rival drug gangs, determined on killing whoever stood in their way. Russ naively believed his uniform would protect him, and gallantly chased a suspect who when stopped thrust a broken bottle into Russ’s unprotected neck, plunging the broken glass into his jugular. This was only 5 weeks into his almost 9-year service.
On another occasion Russ intervened between a man who was attacking his wife. Producing his police badge, the man released his wife, head-butted Russ splitting his nose. Russ then felt a blow to the back of his head as the man’s wife attacked him.
Hundreds of similar incidents followed including Russ suffering devastating injuries after an attack 2011.
Russ was diagnosed with CPTSD with numerous psychiatrists and therapists stating he could NOT be cured. With symptoms of nightmares, flashbacks, anxiety, depression, insomnia, hypervigilance, negative thoughts and no hope of cure by professionals, Russ contemplated ending his life. His sister in desperation contacted ITV for help from Eva & Nik Speakman, co-founder & trustee of Trauma Research UK.
“In the first conversation I had with Nik, I was given hope”. Russ stated as his journey of recovery began with the help of The Speakmans. Cognitive restructuring changed his perspective to the attacks and emotional ties were severed . Russ is now married with two children, He is happy and living a life completely CPTSD free.
Knowing that Trauma Research UK is dedicated to identifying new therapies for trauma and anxiety-related disorders as well as offering support to those suffering, has made Russ eager to be involved and help.
Hunter Speakman
Co-Founder & Trustee
Driven by a profound frustration with the lack of effective treatments in mental health and the striking imbalance in research funding, Hunter set out to make a meaningful impact. He recognised that without sustained financial support, promising psychological interventions often vanish before they can reach those in need. His mission became clear: to assist funding pathways that preserve and advance effective mental health treatments.
Hunter’s dedication is deeply rooted in personal experience, having spent much of his life immersed in the mental health field, from working with charities, assisting at mental health workshops, and engaging directly with those affected by anxiety disorders. His commitment is unwavering, fuelled by an enduring passion to offer real support and hope to individuals battling psychological distress.
His efforts have already led to the successful implementation of educational and mental health support systems within schools, creating safe spaces for young people to access help without stigma. This achievement only strengthened his resolve to reach those who feel abandoned by conventional approaches, those who have lost hope and believe recovery is beyond their grasp.
With 11 GCSEs and 4 A-levels already to his name, Hunter is now preparing to pursue a degree in medicine, determined to combine clinical excellence with systemic change in the field of mental health.
Matthew Montgomery
Secretary & Trustee
Matthew is a Licensed Conveyancer Property Lawyer and commissioner for Oaths.
He runs his own successful Property Law Legal practice and has done for over 30 years operating two sites in the northwest employing consultant Solicitors together with assistants and support staff.
During his career he has required to make many adjustments and adaptations to the practice to accommodate the continuous changes in the world of business and commerce to ensure the continued success of this business.
He is familiar with the essential requirements for creating, growing, and sustaining a successful business and he is in an ideal position to provide the benefit of this knowledge and experience to this Trauma Research UK.
Sarah
Operations Manager
With lived experience of OCD, panic attacks and out-of-context anxiety, Sarah brings deep understanding and compassion to everything she does. A dedicated mum of four, she has spent over 30 years volunteering within the mental health sector, using her personal journey to help others find strength, clarity, and hope.
Her passion lies in making a real difference, whether that’s through managing the day-to-day operations of our charity or offering a listening ear to those who need it most. She’s a true advocate for recovery and believes that with the right support, everyone has the power to move forward and thrive.
Nina
Volunteer Trainer
I trained to become a mentor for Trauma Research UK after their techniques enabled me to completely overcome Emetophobia. Using the same methods, I have been able to address and work through various other traumas such as anxiety, panic, insomnia and depression. Poor mental health affected me for most of my life but having benefited so much from Trauma Research UK, I am now helping others to overcome traumas and live a happier life.
Ash
Governance Coordinator & Mentor
Having seen the effect of anxiety disorders on people’s mental health through being a paramedic, I knew Trauma Research UK was an incredible charity to get involved with.
I am passionate about making a positive difference and helping people through their challenges whilst developing myself to be the best person I can be.
Stef
Volunteer Training Coordinator & Mentor
Being part of the Trauma Research U.K. team is such a wonderful opportunity that I’m really proud of.
My journey to overcome Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, panic attacks and different anxiety issues has become possible through the teachings of the Speakmans.
Understanding that you need to work on the cause rather than the symptoms just makes complete sense.
Now I am excited to be able to pass these tools, techniques and hope along to others through the mentoring programmes.
Nicola
Mentor
After being cured of trauma relating to previous domestic abuse through the formula created by Nik and Eva Speakman, a formula used as part of the TRUK Mentoring programme, I was adamant I wanted to share with the World the successes of such an intervention.
As a qualified therapist, my eyes and mind were opened to a new way of overcoming issues and succeeding in leading a Happy and Healthy life.
I get to work with a Great Team of volunteers who are so passionate about this work, that they put time and energy into creating a better world for many people.
Jade
Mentor
After seeing the incredible results from Trauma Research UK I knew I had to become involved.
Its just the most amazing feeling to guide mentees through the 6-week programme and see their confidence grow.
Everyone deserves to live their best life, feel wonderful and live without phobias and anxiety.
It’s a privilege to be a small part of someone’s journey to finding their best selves.
Sian
Mentor
For years, I silently battled with my mental health. Everything escalated and got so much worse when I experienced the unimaginable. I lost four loved ones in a space of just 20 months, including my best friend and soulmate. The weight of the grief left me with PTSD and a life that felt impossible to live.
Then I went to a workshop by Nik and Eva Speakman, which is where I learnt about Trauma Research UK. Through the charity’s Help and Support Programme, I found healing and began to reclaim the life I deserve.
Today, I’m proud to be part of a charity committed to helping others know they are never alone and that this world is better with them in it. I’ll do everything I can to ensure others feel supported and never have to face their darkest moments without hope.
Abira
Mentor
From a very young age I remember being like a Chameleon; always trying to blend in and not be noticed. Fearful that people would see through me that I lacked in confidence, had low self-esteem, afraid to do or try anything and generally a very anxious individual.
This tiring vicious cycle would keep looping around in my mind and dictated how I lived my life. Trauma Research UK has enabled me to break free from the shackles that held me down to live the life I deserve.
I am a no longer a victim of circumstances in my life. I now have all the tools to deal with my past and navigate my bright future! We do not need to live with phobias or certain incidents in our life, if we were not born with it, we don’t need to carry it!
I along with the rest of this wonderful, empathetic, and phenomenal team are here to arm you with the tools to break free, live the life you want and enable you to be a VICTOR!
Natalie
Mentor
It’s an honour and a privilege to be part of the TRUK family.
Each one of us have been in similar situations that have held us back in life and genuinely thought life wouldn’t get any better.
We are all now living proof that it’s never too late and having the tools, techniques and the amazing support from this incredible family will let you live a beautiful and wonderful life.
All of those dreams you’ve ever dreamt will become a reality.
Karen
Mentor
The eating disorder I harboured like a dirty secret manifested in toxic relationships and feelings of deep unworthiness.
My daily routine was an exhausting performance of living a lie that all was fine.
Then my son became crippled with anxiety. I couldn’t ignore the shaky foundations anymore. Reaching out for help was the bravest, most brilliant thing I have ever done.
Problems are only problems if we see them that way. A mountain is a tough climb but the view from the top is incredible.
Here’s the mind blowing bit…TRUK can help everyone. If I can do it anyone can!
Jacqui
Mentor
My life changed forever when I needed support with anxiety and trauma from my past and met Nik and Eva Speakman at a workshop.
It was the turning point in my life to become the happier and more fulfilled person I am today.
It took a lot of work and dedication but I truly believe that there is always hope.
This charity that Nik co-founded is here to support and guide people in need on a journey to better mental health.
What a privilege to belong to this team and to be able to share the tools and techniques that help people become the person they deserve to be.
Karen
Mentor
I’m Karen, almost 72 years young, and my life has been filled with challenges that have shaped who I am today. From witnessing domestic violence as a child to navigating relationships with alcoholics, narcissists and experiencing coercive control, I’ve faced my fair share of struggles. But through it all, I’ve always believed in the power of resilience and have made it my mission to help others facing similar challenges.
My journey has been difficult at times, but it’s made me who I am today and that is someone strong, compassionate and determined. I now live independently with my loyal Labrador, Oscar and for the first time in a long while, I’m truly embracing life with joy and a renewed sense of purpose.
I’m passionate about using my experiences to help others who are struggling. Every obstacle I’ve overcome has only fueled my determination to make a positive difference and I’m grateful to be able to share that with others through mentoring and guiding them on their own journeys to healing.
Nicola
Mentor
I feel privileged to be a part of the TRUK family after attending many of Nik and Eva’s workshops and seeing the fantastic results their tools and techniques give people.
They prove that there is always hope and that you absolutely can change your life for the better! It was an honour to be asked to train to become a mentor with TRUK.
I first attended a workshop for my own interest (having studied psychology and working with vulnerable people) and to see first-hand the work Nik and Eva do.
I took away so much more personally than I expected! Their core schemas were particularly life-changing for me, especially ‘plan your life’ and ‘you become what you think about’.
These gave me the motivation to make big changes in my own life and I am certain that TRUK’s Help & Support Programme can help you to do the same.
Sharon
Mentor
I have always been interested in helping people & understanding why people behave in the way that they do.
While I was on maternity leave in 2005, I studied Psychotherapy & Neuro Linguistic Programming and qualified as a level 3 practising psychotherapist in 2007.
I practised for a short while but with a young family decided to put it on hold until my children were older.
Several years later I began work in a high school where I took on the role of a Development Coach. In this role, I am responsible for coaching teachers to improve their professional performance and reach their full potential.
During these sessions, outside factors would often influence how productive a teacher might be, so I began to use my psychotherapeutic approaches again. As I hadn’t employed them for a while, I looked into completing a refresher course and found The Speakman’s Workshop.
I attended the course and was blown away at how simple and clear they made the techniques sound, as my studies all those years ago overcomplicated the techniques.
It is as simple as finding the cause of your fears, anxieties, phobias & changing your perception to a more helpful one! I was completely sold at this point & was honoured to be offered the chance to volunteer for this amazing charity.
I look forward to helping as many people as I can by implementing the fantastic Help & Support Programme as a mentor over the coming years.
Jan
Mentor
I conquered my lifelong emetophobia and am so privileged to be able to help others overcome similar challenges.
Inspired by my own journey, I became a mentor for TRUK in 2022 after completing the Help And Support Programme, (a service that I now facilitate).
However, life threw me a curveball when I was diagnosed with breast cancer.
Amidst the uncertainty and fear, TRUK became my rock, reminding me of the strength and resilience I had cultivated. With their support and the strategies I learned, I faced chemotherapy with courage and gratitude.
Today, I’m cancer-free and back working/volunteering, embracing life with renewed positivity. My journey taught me the power of hope in overcoming adversity, and I’m excited for whatever the future holds.
Wendy
Mentor
Having experienced the amazing work that both Nik and Eva Speakman do, I was honoured when they asked to become a Mentor for Trauma Research UK.
To be part of a team of volunteers who help and support people in overcoming their fears. phobias and to give them the tools to live their best life is a complete privilege.
Knowing that I can help make a difference to how people feel through our Help and Support Programme is so rewarding.
Being there for people is very simply, part of who I am.
Emma
Mentor
After having my son 21 years ago, I began experiencing anxiety and panic attacks, which were soon followed by what I believed was a driving phobia.
Seventeen years later, after trying various treatments, I attended one of the Speakman Workshops, which truly changed my life. It was through this that I was introduced to this amazing charity and began my journey to overcome anxiety and phobias and to build confidence.
That confidence has not only helped me secure a job I never would have dreamed of, but it has also allowed me to be part of the TRUK family, supporting others in changing their lives for the better and reminding them that there is always hope.