Simon Brett

During his A Level year, Simon Brett volunteered to help teach art and other subjects to adults with severe physical and mental disabilities. This experience inspired him to choose to study psychology at Reading – a path that has opened up a wealth of opportunities for him.

Simon decided to embark on the MSci Applied Psychology (Clinical) at the University of Reading. He saw it as a great opportunity to learn both how to conduct quality research and get hands-on clinical experience.

As part of his degree, Simon was able to work with members of the University’s Anxiety and Depression in Young People (AnDY) Research Unit.

The clinic works with young people aged seven to 17. It treats them for anxiety and depression disorders, and undertakes research into the development, maintenance and treatment of such disorders.

Simon’s degree qualified him as a psychological wellbeing practitioner (PWP), allowing him to deliver practical, evidence-based psychological therapies in the NHS or independent treatment centres.

"In particular, I benefited – and still benefit – from being able to work with and learn from a large, diverse group of service users and within a team alongside other high-intensity therapists, clinical psychologists and other PWPs."

 Since graduating, Simon has worked for AnDY as a PWP. His main role is to deliver evidence-based treatments for children and young people both in the clinic and in schools.

"I most enjoy learning a new skill, either from working with someone, or from a theory, reflecting by myself or in supervision. Then using this learning to inform my practice and seeing the positive impact that it has on a young person's life."

Read about the MSci Applied Psychology (Clinical) course