Fathers' Day support in dad's honour

A Glossop-based psychotherapist is using his experience of personal loss to support others this Father’s Day. 

Ryan Knight graduated last July after four years of rigorous training to become a UKCP-registered Psychotherapist and a BACP Child and Adolescent Therapist. He now runs a private practice working with adults and children, and also helps lead the local LET’s Men’s Mental Health Group. 

Less than a year ago, Ryan lost his father, Tommy, to a brief but devastating battle with cancer. “He was the heart of our family,” said Ryan. “My dad was a lovable rogue, always joking, but at his core he was deeply caring. He would do anything for anyone.” 

Ryan, his wife Claire, and their three children live just two doors away from Ryan’s parents, and the two families spent much time together. They went on joint holidays, shared day-to-day life, and leaned on one another. Tommy played an essential role in caring for his grandchildren when both parents were working, and also looked after his daughter’s three children as they lived on the same street. 

“He was there every day when the kids came home from school,” Ryan shared. “He’d let the granddaughters draw on him with make-up, and he’d be outside rolling down hills with the boys. He and mum never missed a rugby match. My sons promised him they’d work hard and make it to the top, and just two months after he passed, my eldest (17) signed a professional rugby contract with Wakefield Trinity and my youngest (15) is set to sign a scholarship contract with a super league club in June. Both were determined to keep their promise to their Grandad.” 

Tommy’s battle with cancer was short lived. He was taken to A&E in an ambulance with severe stomach ache and was struggling to breathe, and was diagnosed with cancer within hours. Sadly he never returned home, passing away just three weeks later. Ryan shared: “It was hard to believe that only weeks earlier we were on holiday in Wales with over 40 family members, and Dad was rolling down the hills with the kids. During his time in hospital, surrounded by family, he renewed his vows with my Mum, which was the best thing I have ever seen, but at the same time the most devastatingly painful.” 

It’s his experience of such love and support that Ryan is now channelling into his therapy work. Inspired by his own grief, he is launching a week of special support sessions commencing after Father’s Day on Sunday June 15, for those who have lost their dads, and also for dads who may be struggling themselves. 

“I was thinking about how hard this day is going to be for me, and I realised I wouldn’t be the only one. That’s where the idea came from,” said Ryan. “I want to provide a safe, understanding space for people to share, feel heard, and get support. Nobody should feel alone, especially around a day that can be so emotionally loaded.” 

Aside from providing these sessions, Ryan will also offer signposting to other local support networks, including the LET’s men’s and women’s groups and additional mental health services, including continuing one-to-one therapy with him. He said: “I don’t want to open a can of worms and then leave people to their own devices. The sessions will provide a safe space to offload, have feelings validated, to be understood and supported, and I will ensure that people know how to continue with support if they need it.” 

Ryan is also aware of the need to keep an eye on his own mental health during such an emotionally charged time which may be triggering. His plans for self-care include daily ice baths, infrared saunas, massages, sound baths and keeping up with his regular gym routine, which are all proven support mechanisms.  

Ryan brings 18 years of experience working with vulnerable young people, previously serving as an Ofsted Registered Manager for children’s homes. His journey into psychotherapy was shaped not only by his career but also, he says, by the example set by his father. “My dad’s way of being there for others is what has guided me. It’s why I do this work.” 

Ryan describes himself as a compassionate therapist with a calm and caring nature. He works with a wide range of issues, including trauma, grief, anxiety, low self-esteem, late-diagnosis ADHD, and relationship challenges. 

“There’s no right or wrong reason to come to therapy,” he said. “Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just need someone to talk to, I offer a space to explore that. Real change is possible, no matter where you’re starting from.” 

As Father’s Day approaches, Ryan hopes his initiative will offer some light for others walking a similar path. “This one’s for my Dad” he says, “And for all the dads out there, past and present, who have shaped who we are.” 

To find out more or book one of the special Father’s Day support sessions contact Ryan on: 07368 470 495 or email: ryanknighttherapyservices@gmail.com