Britain Stelly founder of Creature Courage
Hi, I’m Britain — founder of Creature Courage and an internationally recognised specialist in animal phobia therapy, widely regarded as one of the UK’s leading experts in the field.
For over a decade, I’ve helped people overcome deep-rooted fears and anxiety using a unique blend of creative therapy and neuroscience-based techniques. I specialise in exposure therapy and have developed my own innovative approach to phobia treatment.
My work has helped thousands of people overcome animal phobias quickly and effectively. Many clients achieve life-changing results in just one day, with a documented success rate of 99%.
My mission is simple: to help people reclaim their confidence and feel in control again. I’m incredibly proud that our work continues to transform lives every day. You can view testimonials from our clients here.
Specialist in Animal Phobia Therapy and Anxiety Coaching
I specialise in animal phobia therapy, anxiety coaching, and therapeutic creativity. As a fully qualified life coach, I combine psychological insight with hands-on workshop facilitation and practical exposure techniques.
This approach helps clients overcome fears such as spiders, snakes, dogs, birds, and other animals in a safe, structured, and supportive environment.
Media Features and Research Contributions
Over the years, I’ve shared this work across major media platforms, including Good Morning Britain, Sky News, BBC Radio 2, ITV, and The Daily Mail. These features have helped raise awareness of how quickly and effectively phobias can be treated with the right support.
I have also contributed to academic research. My paper, “The Journey of a Hero and Sustainable Development,” is published in the World Review of Entrepreneurship, Management and Sustainable Development by Inderscience Publishers.
Background in Creative Therapy
Before founding Creature Courage, I spent over a decade running a creative therapy charity. During this time, I helped individuals build confidence through expressive group work and therapeutic creativity.
I have also worked with the YMCA, delivering Creative Wellness workshops focused on reducing stress and improving mental health through imagination, reflection, and guided experiences.
A Lifelong Passion for Animals
My fascination with the animal kingdom began in childhood and has stayed with me ever since. I have over 20 years of experience in exotic animal husbandry, including working with spiders, snakes, and even an albino skunk who curls up on my lap every day.
I believe that understanding creates compassion — and compassion is the first step in overcoming fear.
From Fear to Confidence
If you’re struggling with an animal phobia, you’re not alone. Fear is not fixed — it is learned. And that means it can be unlearned.
I understand how real and overwhelming fear can feel. That’s why I work with you at your pace, in a supportive and compassionate way, to help you feel safe, in control, and ready to move forward.
If you feel ready to change your relationship with fear and move from avoidance to confidence, I’d love to help you take that step.
Adam Michael Cox
Hi, I am Adam Cox, the hypnotherapist for Creature Courage. I am a qualified UK Clinical Hypnotherapist. I have a degree in psychology, studied with the London College of Clinical Hypnosis at
I also produce audio and video content. I host the world's most popular hypnosis podcast, 'The Hypnotist' which has over 7 million downloads. I am regularly asked by the media to comment on subjects such as hypnosis, phobias, weight loss, and emotional issues. I am regularly featured on UK radio to offer my unique insight on hypnotherapy.
I became fascinated with hypnosis from an early age and was quickly inspired by the work of Milton Erickson and Richard Bandler. I studied Hypnosis and NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming) extensively, and more recently DHE (Design Human Engineering) and NHR (Neuro-Hypnotic Patterning).
I work in all aspects of hypnosis. I work with clients to tackle issues such as phobias, anxiety, addictions,
Peter Kirk: Chairman of The British Tarantula Society
Peter Kirk is the Chairman of the British Tarantula society and has decades of experience and knowledge about arachnids, insects and snakes. He even discovered a new species of bush cricket in 2016!
Peter was so impressed with the Spider Courage Experience that he not only endorsed our therapy for the British Tarantula Society but also decided to join our team!
He lends his expertise to our group workshops, and his excellent supportive manner has helped many overcome their phobias.
John William McCarroll: Co-founder
John co-founded Creature Courage alongside Britain Stelly and is a dedicated member of the Creature Courage team. John holds a level two and three in Counselling and a diploma in educational psychology. He assists with animal handling and emotional support during group workshops. His passion for animals and helping people was a big inspiration for starting this business.
Having overcome his own spider phobia using the same methods we use on the Creature Courage workshops, he believes that only through immersion and interaction can we break through the barriers of fear within us.