Benjamin Hookway | Founder of Beneath Behaviour
“Behaviour is communication. Our job is to listen closely enough to understand what it is telling us.”
Hi, I’m Ben and I set up Beneath Behaviour because I wanted to create something that gives young people the time, relationships and understanding they need to thrive. I’ve always been interested in what sits underneath behaviour, not simply what we can see on the surface, but the experiences, emotions, needs and relationships that might be driving it.
Through my work in psychology and with young people, I’ve seen how much can change when someone feels genuinely understood rather than judged. Beneath Behaviour was created around that belief: that meaningful support starts with curiosity, consistency and a strong relationship, and that psychology can be used in a way that feels practical, accessible and relevant to everyday life.
I hold a First-Class degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Neuroimaging for Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience. Alongside developing Beneath Behaviour, I work within the NHS and young people’s services, where I have gained experience working alongside psychologists and multidisciplinary teams supporting young people with complex emotional and psychological needs.
My interest in understanding behaviour is personal as well as professional. I grew up with some difficult family experiences, which shaped the way I understand relationships, emotions and the things young people may carry beneath the surface.
Looking back, I can see how much of what we experience when we are young can show itself in ways that are not always obvious. Sometimes behaviour is communicating anxiety, fear, low confidence or something a young person does not yet have the words to explain.
That is a big part of why Beneath Behaviour means so much to me. I wanted to create a service that looks beyond what is happening on the surface, stays curious about what might be underneath, and gives young people consistent relationships in which they can feel understood, supported and valued.
Outside of Work, I love travelling, being outdoors and experiencing new places. I’ve always enjoyed getting away, seeing different parts of the world and making the most of opportunities to do something a bit different.
I’m happiest when I’m active, whether that is walking, going to the gym, swimming, playing sport or spending time outside. I also love animals, good food, music and films, and I’m always up for trying something new. Travelling has been a big part of my life, and some of my favourite memories have come from places like Australia, where I moved too and worked as a behaviour support practitioner.
I’m a big football fan and support the mighty Luton Town. I also enjoy playing golf, getting outdoors and spending plenty of time out with the dogs. I’m happiest when I’m doing something, whether that’s watching football, getting a round of golf in or just heading out for a walk.
