The ARC Team

Gary is a Registered Mental Health Nurse, Personal Trainer and importantly – has been in recovery for over 11 years after years of struggling with substance use. Getting and staying sober has enabled him to pursue a life of love, purpose and fulfilment and he is fortunate to be able to use those experiences to carry hope for other individuals and families who are actively struggling with addiction.

Maggs has 16+ years working and managing within the fitness industry. She is passionate about people and fitness. I love to see someone develop from a complete beginner to becoming a regular at the gym and achieving their fitness goals.

Matthew brings over a 10+ years of experience in the fitness industry as well as a passion for improving mental health and addressing addiction. With a strong belief in the power of health and fitness to transform lives, Matthew is dedicated to enhancing and expanding the offerings at ARC to better serve our communities.

“I am excited to be a part of the ARC team and contribute to the organisation’s efforts to make a positive impact in the local community and beyond.”

Sarah is an Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. After almost a decade of working within a CBT context, Sarah feels privileged to be a part of helping people work through their problems and thrive in life beyond their difficulties. Sarah also helps to co facilitate our Family Support group

Ciaran specialises in running therapy. Sober for 14 years, his practice replaces the confines of the counselling room with the great outdoors where he counsels by way of walking or running therapy.

Warren is a programme graduate and advocate for recovery, brings his own unique experiences, insights and positivity to new members of the programme. 

Lee has been on his recovery journey from substance misuse since 2011. Lee has been sober from alcohol since Feb 2018 and practices complete abstinence with all mind-altering substances.  Lee is currently working towards his accredited facilitator training with SMART Recovery.

“I’ve wanted to be a part of ARC from my 1st coffee meeting with Gary. The combination of fitness and recovery are two things very important in my own life, to be able to help others with these is perfect.”

Stevie has been in the fitness industry for 12 years. As a past programme participant, Stevie puts into practice his understanding of the recovery process to help and support others.

“I was able to witness first-hand the amazing work and effort being put in by everyone involved. I wanted to use my skills alongside my own experience of addiction to help others. What stood out for me was the community that ARC has created, and to be able to contribute to that is an honour and a pleasure”

For the past 15 years, Darren has been involved in both training and coaching. Darren currently holds a Brazilian Jiujitsu Brown Belt and instructs adults and children at Team Torres Derry. Darren believes that both good physical and mental health is essential to a balanced life and recovery. 

“What Gaz and the team are doing for the people of Derry is amazing. I am a true believer that physical and mental health go hand-in-hand, and I Look forward to using my knowledge to help people achieve their full potential”. 

Jay has a passion for fitness and its effect on the mind. He believes exercise is not just about aerobic capacity and muscle size, it has a positive effect on depression and anxiety. Jay has a heart for raising awareness of the impact of addiction and poor mental health.

“I have been following ARC from the beginning so to be asked to join this inspiring group of people was both humbling and exciting. This approach to mental health and addiction is exactly what this city needs.”

Martin is a past programme participant, nd celebrates over 2 years in recovery. Martin facilitate our free community walking group offering support and a listening ear to those who need it.

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