Marianne Richards

Marianne is a British author specializing in mental health guides and anti-bullying literature, with notable works including "Beating the Bully" and a series of plain-language mental illness guides published through Straightforward/Emerald. Her writing career began in 2000 after an encounter with a publisher's agent in Oxford, leading to a long-standing collaboration with ethical publishers. In 2017, she launched an anti-bullying campaign focused on the NHS, republishing relevant books with permission from Straightforward. Under the pen name Jane Browne, she also writes historical fiction and poetry.

With a background spanning two decades as a counselor in both private practice and the NHS, Marianne brings professional expertise to her nonfiction work. Her experience includes roles in psychiatric hospitals, GP practices, and asylum wards, complemented by qualifications in mental health practice and psychodynamic counseling. Her mental health guides have been praised by medical professionals for their clarity and practical insights, with reviewers noting their value to patients and caregivers.

Now retired, Marianne has shifted focus to fiction writing under additional pen names, including Dan Vichente. Her earlier works remain recognized for their accessibility, with reader and professional endorsements highlighting their impact. At 71, she continues to explore new creative ventures while reflecting on a career dedicated to advocacy and education in mental health.