Nicholas Archer

Speaking to a therapist can help you to explore and untangle your difficulties and concerns, to understand yourself better in relation to the world and others, and to think about your thoughts and feelings.

I am an experienced Psychodynamic Psychotherapeutic Counsellor and I believe that I can potentially help you.

I believe in providing a supportive, confidential, and non-judgemental space in which to talk about whatever you would like, and where you can start to make sense of your difficulties.

I offer online counselling and psychotherapy, and I can see clients in person in my private consulting room in the North Laine, central Brighton, a few minutes’ walk from Brighton station. I also practice at The Rock Clinic, Brighton and volunteer for the NHS in a psychiatric hospital.

I have worked with a wide range of clients of different ages and backgrounds, with diverse issues, and in various settings, including private practice, for agencies, for an employee counselling scheme, and at a university counselling service. 

I am a Registered Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP). I hold a PgDip in Psychodynamic Psychotherapeutic Counselling from Brighton University, and I am currently undertaking further training in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy at the British Psychotherapy Foundation (BPF), a course accredited by the British Psychoanalytic Council (BPC).

I am experienced at working with difference and diversity and I adopt an open and inclusive approach. My practice is LGBTQ+ affirmative.

I abide by the strict Ethical Framework of BACP. I am fully insured and I undergo regular Supervision and Continuing Professional Development (CPD), as well as engaging in further psychotherapy training and study. I hold a current enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate.

I have a background in community work and pastoral care and I have experience of working with and listening to a wide range of people. I hold degrees in Maths and Theology.

My core approach to therapy is psychodynamic, which understands that many of the ways we think, feel, and act can be influenced by our earlier life experiences, relationships, and the unconscious. By considering these things within a safe and containing space, and in the context of a trusting and empathetic relationship, we can come to understand ourselves, our relationships, and our thought and behaviour patterns better.

Over time this can lead to change, and help us to become more self aware and integrated people, and better able to face and negotiate life’s challenges. Based on the ideas of the early figures in psychoanalysis, together with modern research and practice, this approach also focuses on the relationship between therapist and client, and works with your current issues as well as the past.

This approach is research validated and evidence based, and has been shown to be effective in helping with a range of issues. 

Sessions last for 50 minutes and would normally be at the same time each week. I would encourage you to speak about whatever you would like, even if it seems irrelevant. I also work with dreams, which can be a useful tool for understanding our unconscious.