Simon Barkley, BACP

Simon Barkley is a counsellor based in the United Kingdom who helps people facing stress, anxiety, addiction, anger, low self-esteem and relationship strain. He also supports those coping with grief, sleep problems, career pressures and major life changes. Simon uses a straightforward, collaborative style and treats each person as the expert on their own life.

He trained with a BA in Integrative Counselling and holds an MSc in Psychology. He is registered with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, BACP. Over eight years he has worked with people managing addiction, bereavement, trauma and motivation difficulties.

In sessions Simon listens first, then helps people identify strengths and blind spots. He blends different methods to suit what an individual needs, focusing on practical steps and clearer ways of thinking. He aims for short, doable changes that add up over time.

People meet a calm, direct counsellor who offers empathy and practical input. His approach includes setting small goals, practising new skills and reviewing progress together. He describes the work as a partnership where the client’s priorities guide the direction.

Simon wants to help people move beyond immediate problems toward more satisfying daily life. He writes plans that fit real routines and checks in on what works. If someone wants a steady, experience-based counsellor who combines listening with practical tools, he may be a good match.

How his approaches work in online counselling

Client-Centred Therapy places the person’s experience at the centre. The counsellor listens closely, reflects what you say and helps you make sense of your choices and values. This approach suits people who want space to tell their story and to find their own direction.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, or CBT, looks at links between thoughts, feelings and behaviours. It breaks problems down into manageable steps and introduces simple exercises to change unhelpful patterns, which can help with anxiety, low mood and sleep issues.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. Simon collaborates with each person to decide which methods match their needs and goals. He checks in regularly and adjusts the plan if something feels unhelpful or if priorities change.

For practical arrangements, please confirm current session options before booking as formats are not specified here. Online sessions can make it easier to fit counselling into a busy week, for example by avoiding travel or allowing shorter check-ins during a work break. They can also suit people who prefer not to be on camera or who need a lower-bandwidth option. Registered or accredited professionals offer online work that aims to match therapeutic needs with everyday life demands.