Michael Brookes

Michael Brookes OBE is a Visiting Professor in Forensic Psychology at Birmingham City University (BCU) and a Consultant Chartered Forensic Psychologist. He served as Director of Therapeutic Communities at HMP Grendon from 2009 onwards, bringing extensive experience from his 11-year clinical leadership role in this specialized prison setting. His career spans roles as an Area Psychologist at HMPS HQ, work in secure Youth Treatment Centres, and pioneering efforts in establishing area psychology teams.

• Specializes in prison-based therapeutic communities
• Focuses on forensic mental health and offender rehabilitation
• Recognized with an OBE (2013) for prison reform contributions
• Teaches BPS-accredited MSc Forensic Psychology at BCU

His research explores therapeutic community effectiveness, cultural sensitivity in forensic settings, and rehabilitation models for veterans and transgender offenders. He maintains strong industry connections with HM Prison Service, the Royal College of Psychiatrists, and the Counselling in Prisons Network. His former students occupy critical roles in HMPPS, Secure Training Centres, NHS, and criminal justice charities.

• Recipient of OBE for prison service contributions
• Active in forensic psychology policy research
• Collaborates with Professor David Wilson to bridge academia and practice