During his training in Sheffield, he was inspired by the works of Dr Steve Peters, a leading Mind Management expert and research at the Sheffield Cognition and Neuro-imaging laboratory.

After completing his basic mental health training, Dr Balu decided to pursue a career in management and took up an assignment with the Priory Group. He was involved in setting up and management of an inpatient facility which focused on the rehabilitation and empowerment of people with severe and enduring mental health problems.