Cherenkov imaging counters requiring large photosensitive areas, the capability to stand high rates and to operate in magnetic field environments could benefit from the use of photon detectors based on THick Gaseous Electron Multiplier (THGEM) coupled to a solid state CsI photo-cathode. A systematic study of the THGEM detector response as a function of its geometrical parameters and electrodes' applied voltage has been performed. Dedicated electrostatic calculations to optimize the detector design have been accomplished. Data obtained from small photon detector prototypes operating in single photon detection mode are presented and discussed. In particular the key aspect of photo-electron extraction from the photo-cathode surface is investigated via the timing spectrum response of the detector for different electric field conditions at the photo-cathode: a comparison of the measured time distributions and the simulation results is illustrated.