Heartbroken dad's tribute to 'special' son, 21, after tragedy

A counsellor apologised to a client after using imagery of ‘a gravestone’ in a therapy session, a court heard today. Benjamin Davis then took his own life only a few months later, having ‘never got over that experience’, his father said.

Benjamin — also known as Binyomin Chaim Davis — died in Salford Royal Hospital on November 28, aged 22. Five days earlier, he was found by father Reuven at his Prestwich home having tried to take his own life.

During an inquest in Bolton today (April 13), private counsellor Avremi Rosenberg admitted that he should have used different wording in his session with Benjamin, who was 21 at the time. He also accepted that the language was ‘inappropriate’.

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At the beginning of the proceedings, Mr Davis told the court his son had ‘a charming smile’, and was a ‘special person’. He added: “We really miss him. He had a kind nature with a charming smile. He was a great student, he enjoyed photography, walking, and spending time with his family. He was a real pleasure to be with and he’s missed by family and friends.”

Despite his academic prowess, Benjamin struggled initially to fit in at school — but eventually made a close knit group of friends. His challenges at school meant Benjamin was diagnosed with depression and anxiety in 2018, Mr Davis continued.

The youngster was also diagnosed with autism in 2021, assistant coroner Rachel Syed heard. After this diagnosis, Benjamin had five counselling sessions with Mr Rosenberg in spring last year.

And it was during these sessions in which Mr Rosenberg referenced a gravestone, Mr Davis said. He added: “I asked Mr Rosenberg about it and he confirmed he did [say it].