John Holsey, founder of True You Together CIC
meet the founder
For over 27 years I’ve worked within the criminal justice system, supporting people through some of the most complex and emotionally challenging periods of their lives.
Throughout that journey, one belief has always stayed with me. People are far more likely to heal, grow and thrive when they feel physically and emotionally safe, understood and accepted for who they truly are.
Alongside my professional experience, I also bring lived experience of neurodivergence. I understand first-hand the impact that misunderstanding, stigma and feeling “different” can have on confidence, wellbeing and identity. But I also recognise the strengths that can come from thinking differently: resilience, creativity, empathy and insight.
My work has always been rooted in compassion, emotional intelligence and human connection. I believe in treating people with dignity, kindness and understanding, and in creating environments where people feel listened to and safe rather than judged. Positive change becomes possible when people feel supported and begin to believe in their own worth.
My experience.
I’m a trained Mental Health Ally, a qualified hypnotherapist and a trained programme deliverer. I also hold a BA (Hons) Degree in Probation Studies.
Over the years I’ve developed and led rehabilitative, wellbeing and inclusion-focused initiatives, many of them supporting neurodivergent people and promoting more compassionate, psychologically informed and neuro-inclusive approaches to support. This work has received both local and national recognition within the criminal justice system, including Royal recognition through a Butlers Trust award.
My experience has included working alongside:
- CAMHS
- Schools and SEND services
- NHS teams and GP practices
- Partnership and community agencies
This has involved advocating for and supporting neurodivergent children, young people, adults and families, helping people feel heard and supported when navigating systems that can feel overwhelming.
I’ve also delivered training and supportive programmes in:
- Neurodiversity awareness
- Emotional wellbeing
- Self-harm awareness
- Suicide prevention
- Rehabilitative and strengths-based approaches
What I believe.
My approach is person-centred, trauma-informed and strengths-based. I believe every person has value, every voice matters, and nobody should ever feel defined by labels, diagnosis or past experiences.
Outside of my professional role, I’m passionate about community wellbeing and charitable causes. I’m a keen fundraiser and I believe strongly in the power of kindness, empathy and communities coming together to create positive change.
What matters to me.
- Kindness
- Understanding
- Emotional safety
- Acceptance
- Connection
- Community
- Celebrating difference
Sometimes the most powerful thing we can offer another person is the feeling that they are accepted, understood, safe and not alone.
True You Together CIC was created from both professional experience and personal understanding. It was built on the belief that nobody should ever feel “less than” because they think differently or experience the world in their own way. For me, this work is far more than a profession. It’s deeply personal.
A place where you can feel safe enough to be truly you.