- CBT techniques
- Client-centred work
- Motivational interviewing
About Simon
Simon Barkley is a counsellor registered with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) with eight years' experience. He works with young adults and others on stress, anxiety, addictions, anger, low self-esteem, life changes, relationships, trauma and bereavement. He also supports people facing career uncertainty, sleep problems and compassion fatigue.
Simon uses a straightforward, person-focused approach. He treats clients as experts in their own lives and helps them spot strengths and blind spots. Sessions aim to reduce distress and build practical skills rather than rely on jargon.
He draws on client-centred methods and cognitive behavioural techniques to help people change unhelpful thoughts and patterns. Motivational interviewing is used for issues around substance use and getting motivated. Existential ideas help where people feel stuck on meaning, identity or big life choices.
Simon often works on communication and relationship difficulties using elements of the Gottman Method alongside narrative tools to reframe painful stories. He helps clients break down problems into manageable steps and practise new behaviours between sessions.
Clients can expect clear, direct conversation about goals and obstacles. Simon sees therapy as collaborative and practical. He helps people plan small actions, review progress, and adjust approaches when needed.
How his approaches translate to online work
Simon uses client-centred counselling by listening closely and reflecting what matters to the client. This approach helps people feel heard and clarifies goals, which suits young adults facing big life choices or relationship stress.Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is used to identify unhelpful thoughts and to practise small behavioural changes. CBT is practical for anxiety, low mood, sleep problems and career-related stress because it breaks problems into clear steps and exercises.
Motivational interviewing supports people dealing with addiction or low motivation by exploring ambivalence and building internal reasons to change. It tends to focus conversations on small, achievable next steps.
Choosing the right approach is part of the work. The therapist will discuss goals, options and preferences and then try methods that fit the client. This is a collaborative process and adjustments are made as needed.
Confirm session formats before booking, as they are not specified here. Online sessions can help fit therapy into everyday life by reducing travel, allowing shorter check-ins, and making it easier to schedule around work or study commitments.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
8+ years
Listed in
United Kingdom
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What concerns does he help with?
He supports people with stress, anxiety, addictions, anger, self-esteem, life changes, relationships, trauma, grief, sleep, career and depression.
What is his typical approach in sessions?
He uses client-centred listening alongside cognitive behavioural techniques and motivational interviewing to set goals and practise skills in everyday life.
How much experience does he have?
He has eight years of professional experience working with the concerns listed in his profile.
What credentials and location apply?
He is registered with the BACP and is based in the United Kingdom.
Can sessions be held in other languages or with international clients?
Sessions are offered in English and he accepts international clients.
What session formats are available?
Please confirm the current session options before booking, as formats are not specified in this profile.
How are sessions paid for?
Cost varies with location and sessions use a subscription that can be cancelled at any time.
How do I begin work with him?
Select the See online therapy options button, complete the short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session.
Online talk therapy through BetterHelp is for adults aged 18 and over and is not emergency care. If you are in danger, use the emergency numbers. Find someone else by name.