simon brown

"I am committed to forging a flexible, responsive, and tailored approach to helping personal growth." From my approach as a counsellor, I emphasize the importance of the 'here and now,' guiding individuals to identify and understand current patterns, narratives, beliefs, and values that may hinder or foster empowerment. This approach can increase self determination, independent decision making and self directed action. Moreover, we can begin to see the interplay between how trauma memories, emotions and feelings govern motivational systems, thoughts and behaviour.  Additionally, I utilize psychotherapeutic techniques to assist clients in exploring and healing past experiences, enabling a deeper understanding and transformation of their lives.  I create systems and methods that fit each client, rather than forcing the client to adapt to a rigid, preconceived therapeutic model. In our sessions, I engage in an 'active and collaborative' humanistic approach. This involves attentive listening, thoughtful reflection, and sharing insights in a timely, empathetic, and compassionate manner. As an active and dynamic therapist, I integrate therapeutic theories, psychological models, and frameworks with existential and philosophical insights to provide comprehensive support. Along with viewing things with an humanistic understanding of how are complexities can govern our present self, I am also a firm advocate of positive psychology. This approach focuses on recognizing and cultivating your positive traits, assets and strengths. Sessions are typically scheduled weekly, lasting 50 minutes each, though I am flexible to accommodate a cadence that suits you best, whether that be longer sessions, bi-weekly or more frequent meetings. While I prefer face-to-face interactions, I am open to online sessions or a combination of both to best fit your needs and preferences. I also offer therapeutic walks, which some people find helpful, especially those interested in mindfulness. I provide a free 20-minute introductory session, available via phone or online. This initial meeting is an opportunity for us to discuss your goals and expectations. If desired, we can also start to outline a preliminary strategy for your journey ahead. You are warmly invited to get in touch with me to talk, discuss and determine if you feel at ease and confident in pursuing a working relationship together. I wish you the best on your journey. 

As a Registered Member of the British Association for Counsellors and Psychotherapists (MBACP 403996) and an Advanced Member of the Addiction Professionals Registration, I bring a wealth of experience to my practice. Since qualifying as a therapist in 2014, I have worked with the Change Grow Live (CGL) Counselling Service and the Brighton Housing Trust (BHT) Wellbeing Service, before transitioning into private practice. My journey in therapeutic and social support roles began in 2000, spanning various settings such as HMP, outreach support, youth services, and alcohol and drug services. In these roles, I have dedicated myself to helping numerous individuals transform their behaviors for more fulfilling lives. Academically, I hold a BA in Psychology and Management Studies from Sussex University, a Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling (CPCAB), and an MSc in Substance Misuse, also from Sussex University. My experience extends to academia as a part-time lecturer at Brighton University for their Critical Addiction Studies course and as a trainer/facilitator in the private sector. In this capacity, I specialized in providing coaching through the use of virtual reality (VR) experiences. These sessions were particularly designed to enhance activities related to recruitment, selection, and team development, tailored for high-end corporate clients. I am committed to continuous professional development and adhere to regular supervision to maintain the highest standards in my practice.