About Us | Embodied Growth - Body-Oriented Coaching in Brighton

Our Story

Embodied Growth was founded in 2015 by Dr. Olivia Hartwell, who after years of working as a clinical psychologist became increasingly aware of the limitations of purely cognitive approaches to personal development and healing. Having experienced profound shifts in her own life through somatic practices, she envisioned a center that would bridge the gap between traditional talking therapies and body-based modalities.

Beginning with a small studio in the heart of Brighton, Olivia collaborated with movement specialists, coaches, and other therapists who shared her vision of integrated personal growth. The practice quickly gained recognition for its innovative approach that honored the body's wisdom alongside intellectual understanding.

In 2018, we expanded to our current location on Marine Parade, where the connection to the sea and natural environment enhances our work on embodied presence. Over the years, we've refined our methodology through continuous research, professional development, and most importantly, through witnessing the transformative journeys of our clients.

Today, Embodied Growth stands as a leader in body-oriented coaching in southern England, with a team of dedicated practitioners who bring diverse backgrounds yet share a common commitment to supporting individuals in discovering their own embodied wisdom and living with greater presence, authenticity, and balance.

Our Mission & Values

Mission

To facilitate profound personal transformation by reconnecting individuals with their embodied wisdom, enabling them to navigate life's challenges with greater presence, resilience, and authenticity.

Core Values

Embodied Presence: We believe that true growth happens when we bring awareness to our physical experience in the present moment, rather than dwelling in abstract concepts or past/future thinking.
Integration: We honor the inseparable connection between mind, body, emotions, and spirit, working with the whole person rather than fragmented parts.
Compassionate Inquiry: We approach our work with curiosity rather than judgment, creating space for exploration and discovery without predetermined outcomes.
Empowerment: We see our role as facilitators who help clients access their own inner resources and wisdom, rather than experts with all the answers.
Evidence-Informed Practice: While honoring intuition and experience, we ground our work in contemporary research in neuroscience, trauma studies, and embodied cognition.
Ecological Awareness: We recognize that personal wellbeing is inseparable from our relationship with the natural world and broader social systems.

Meet Our Team

The dedicated professionals behind Embodied Growth

Dr. Olivia Hartwell

Founder & Lead Coach

With a background in clinical psychology and extensive training in somatic experiencing, Olivia brings over 15 years of experience in integrating mind-body approaches. Her work is particularly focused on helping individuals navigate life transitions and recover from burnout through embodied awareness.

Marcus Bennett

Movement Specialist

With a background in contemporary dance and somatic movement education, Marcus specializes in helping clients rediscover freedom and expression through the body. His gentle approach makes movement accessible to everyone, regardless of previous experience or physical limitations.

Dr. Elena Kostas

Trauma-Informed Coach

With dual training in neuroscience and Somatic Experiencing, Elena specializes in working with individuals recovering from trauma and chronic stress. Her approach combines cutting-edge research with compassionate, body-centered practices that promote nervous system regulation and resilience.

James Harrison

Breathwork & Mindfulness Facilitator

James brings a wealth of experience in breathwork, meditation, and mindful movement practices. His background in stress physiology informs his practical approach to helping clients develop daily practices that support nervous system regulation and embodied presence.

Our Approach & Achievements

Pioneered an integrated coaching methodology that combines elements from somatic experiencing, authentic movement, mindfulness, and contemporary coaching approaches, recognized by the International Coaching Federation.
Conducted a two-year research project in collaboration with Sussex University exploring the efficacy of body-oriented approaches for workplace stress management, with findings published in the Journal of Applied Psychology.
Developed specialized programs for healthcare professionals, educators, and corporate leaders that have been implemented in over 20 organizations across southern England.
Created an accessible training program that has certified over 50 practitioners in our embodied coaching methodology, expanding the availability of body-oriented approaches throughout the UK.
Established a scholarship program providing access to our services for individuals from marginalized communities who might otherwise be unable to access body-oriented coaching.

Client Experiences

"Working with Embodied Growth transformed my understanding of personal development. For years I'd approached growth through books, courses, and cognitive work, but it wasn't until I learned to access wisdom through my body that profound change began to happen. The team creates such a safe container for exploration, and their expertise in bridging somatic practices with practical life application is unmatched."

Catherine Wilson

University Lecturer, Brighton

"After recovering from a serious illness, I was left with anxiety that no amount of traditional therapy seemed to touch. The embodied approach at this center helped me recognize how I was holding tension patterns related to fear, and gave me practical tools to release them. The combination of movement work, breath practices, and coaching conversations has been truly life-changing."

Richard Foster

Business Owner, Hove

"As a dance artist, I thought I already had a strong connection to my body, but the work at Embodied Growth revealed blind spots in how I was relating to physical sensations, especially around difficult emotions. Learning to stay present with discomfort rather than push through it has not only enhanced my artistic practice but transformed my relationships and overall wellbeing."