Simon has over 25 years’ experience working with clients struggling with addiction and co-existing mental health problems. Throughout his career Simon has combined clinical work with an academic role with the University of Otago in Christchurch.

In treating alcohol and drug problems and other addictions, Simon uses a range of techniques depending on the individual. These may involve enhancing motivation, examining the function of the problem behaviour in order to find alternative ways to meet these needs, or changing the circumstances that are supporting the problem behaviour. Simon will also liaise with GPs or psychiatrists when medication may be useful. Once change has been made, learning to avoid relapse can enhance treatment effectiveness. While he operates from a psychological understanding of addiction, Simon is comfortable with supporting people who wish to engage with the 12-step model (e.g., Alcoholics Anonymous).