Who we are

Dr. PhD Francesca Brencio

As APPA Certified Philosophical Counsellor, I offer a unique approach to personal growth and problem-solving drawing from ancient philosophy, phenomenology, existentialism and feminist theory.

I help clients explore life's deepest questions and challenges through structured dialogue, critical thinking, and philosophical inquiry. Our sessions focus on examining underlying beliefs, values, and assumptions to achieve clarity and develop practical wisdom for navigating life's complexities.

Combining rigorous professional development with heartfelt dedication to each individual's journey,  through constant learning and refinement of my practice, I create a space where clients can flourish on their path to wellness and self-discovery.

Thematic and intervention areas: Personal growth and awareness | Stress management | Maternity and perinatal care | Marriage and relationships | Intimacy and sexuality | Childcare counselling | Career transitions | Bereavement management | Emotional awareness and identity | Affective dependence | Gender identity and equality | Spirituality | Applied ethics

Qualification
05.02.2023 APPA Certified Philosophical Counsellor
Registered Certificate Number CC00512/2023 (New York)

Education
I have a PhD in Philosophy and Human Sciences from the University of Perugia (Italy), a BA in Theology from Theological Institute in Assisi associated to Pontificia Universitas Lateranensis (PUL) (Vatican City), and a BA Hons (5 years course) in Philosophy from the University of Perugia (Italy). I have held post-doctoral positions in Australia and Germany, and teaching academic positions in Italy and Spain. 

Currently I teach at University of Birmingham (UK). 

I am also the Director of the PhenoLab - A Theoretical Laboratory in Phenomenology and Mental Health, officially recognised as an Organisational Partner at The Collaborating Centre for Values-based Practice in Health and Social Care at the St Catherine's College at the University of Oxford (UK).

In November 2020 I was awarded the title of Associate Professor according to the Italian National Agency for the Evaluation of Universities and Research Institutes (ANVUR) respectively for the fields of Theoretical Philosophy and History of Philosophy. 

In March 2021 I received The Seal of Excellence, awarded by the European Commission in the frame of EU Programme for Research and Innovation 2014-2020.

Executive Committee Member of The Royal College of Psychiatrists Special Interest Group in Philosophy, since 2018 I collaborate with The Collaborating Centre for Values-based Practice at St. Catherine’s College at the University of Oxford (UK).

My fields of investigation are phenomenology, hermeneutics, phenomenological psychopathology, philosophy of psychiatry, qualitative research and Heidegger Studies. 

I have  published extensively in prestigious international journals, both in philosophy, psychology and psychiatry.

On this page you can find my books and publications.

I participated to a podcast on the meaning of life organized by California State University, where I talked about the value and role of kindness Philosophy Gets Personal - Brencio gets personal with kindness | RSS.com

Activity as Certified Philosophical Counsellor

- From 2023 to date:
Individual philosophical counselling sessions
Couples philosophical counselling sessions
Small groups philosophical counselling sessions

- From September to date:
Member of the professional team “No bump no care” to support women during and after their pregnancy
https://nobumpnocare.com/

Book a meeting with us!

Send an email to pathwaysofbecoming@gmail.com