Barclay Frederick Russell

Barclay Frederick Russell is a writer, lecturer, and mentor who has shared his insights in over 600 talks across the United Kingdom. As the founder of Mind Over Matter, an initiative aimed at enhancing mental resilience among educators, Barclay leverages his background as a seasoned school counselor and certified psychologist. In his role as the Program Director for the charity Educators' Wellbeing Network, he focuses on equipping teachers with the skills to identify and address student mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and social isolation.

Based in Edinburgh, Scotland, Barclay is an active member of the Lothian Regional Mental Health Advisory Board and serves as a mental health advocate within the Scottish Education Corps. He has also dedicated time to supporting youth as a mentor for those dealing with learning disabilities and behavioral challenges. His debut book, "The Strength Within," is a personal account of navigating the complexities of educational psychology early in his career. The follow-up, "Beyond Adversity: Insights from a Psychologist Who Found Purpose Through Crisis," was released by Insight Publications in March 2024.

Russell holds a Diploma in Educational Psychology and a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology with a focus on adolescent development. With a passion for fostering positive change in education, Barclay continues to inspire and support educators in creating nurturing environments that promote both academic achievement and mental wellness.