Thinking about therapy? Book a 20 minute introductory session, online or in person.
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Attachment focussed therapy for adults and young people, near Leatherhead
Here to listen - counselling for 17 & 18 year olds and adults.
WHAT DOES THERAPY WITH ME LOOK LIKE?
Initial session
If you're feeling worried about starting therapy and unsure who is right for you (all of which is completely normal and understandable), I offer a brief initial chat (in person or online). During this short session (20-25 minutes), we'll get the chance to talk in general about what's bringing you to therapy and what you feel you'd like to explore and work on. If you're not exactly sure, but something just feels off, you feel stuck or you're noticing patterns of behaviour for example, we'll start there. We can figure it out together.
I'll always suggest you take some time after the initial chat to reflect on how you felt and how it was to talk to me, and then decide if you want to continue. Of course, you may have had therapy before, be sure of what and who you are looking for and want to 'sign up' straight away. Whatever works for you.
Deciding to continue
Once you let me know that you'd like to continue with some sessions, I will send an agreement which gives information about confidentiality, how your information is kept, regularity of sessions, payment and cancellation requirements and so on. I will also send a 'new client form', asking for some additional information, which we will also discuss during our first full session. Sessions, which are for 50 minutes, are usually at the same time and on the same day but I'll always be as flexible as possible if something comes up, or it's hard to commit to the same pattern because you work shifts for example. There is no need or requirement to book a certain number of sessions - we will regularly review how things are going for you, what is (or isn't) working and any change in focus you, or we, may feel helpful.
Ongoing sessions
As mentioned above, there is no minimum commitment. What's most important is that you feel ready to do some work, because you want things to change. You want to feel more compassion for yourself, more joy and happiness in life, have better relationships, and be more in control of your thoughts and emotions. I get it. It's also important that you understand the work isn't just a 50-minute session once a week or once a fortnight. It will really help if you are able to self-reflect, be self-aware, be curious and be honest with yourself, and me - because you feel safe and don't feel judged.
What happens after? (When you finish therapy).
Hopefully, you get to experience a more authentic life! Clients have told me they feel lighter and more at peace, with themselves and others. If you were used to an inner critic nagging away at you, you may feel released from this negativity and feel more empowered and positive. It's not about everything being good and life being constantly joyful, that's not reality. But it is about understanding yourself more, and being resilient to the highs and lows; the dark and light; the good and bad.
And the good news is, now that you have had some therapy, you know it will always be there for you in the future. One of life's certainties is change, and sometimes we need help to navigate this. I'm always pleased to see previous clients, and many return time and again as life plays out. That's not a failure, it's a strength - that you recognise when you need support and you're able to reach out. Welcome back!
Where can you find me?
I work in person and online from my peaceful therapy room in Great Bookham, moments from Bookham station and 3 minutes drive from the High Street. It is easily accessible from Leatherhead, Cobham, the A3 and M25. My hope is that the space feels welcoming, warm and safe.
(For ease, parking is available).
I see clients on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, (daytime and evening) and on Tuesdays (morning and lunchtime).
I also work online so if you're not local, that's no problem.
Our work can be short or longer term depending what YOU feel you need and what is helping.
Experience
The most important consideration when choosing the right therapist is how you feel in the therapy space and whether you feel I'm the right person to help you.
To help you decide, I offer an online or in person initial chat, to see if we are a good 'fit' to work together. That means you feel comfortable (even when talking about uncomfortable things), safe, heard and understood. It also helps me to ensure I'm able to work with you, for example that I have the relevant training and/or experience relating to your particular difficulties or challenges.
You don't have to prepare for your sessions and don't worry if you have nothing specific to talk about. We will start where you are. Sometimes, those days when 'there's nothing to talk about', are the most illuminating!
My previous experience includes working in a low cost counselling service in South West London and as a Primary School counsellor with children aged 5-11 years.
Qualifications:
I have an advanced Level 5 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling and over 5 years' in private practice. I am a registered accredited member of the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS) which means I adhere to their Code of Ethics and have professional support behind me. I am continually updating and refreshing my knowledge through training, reading and attending events in my areas of interest.
Testimonials
"I came to Suzanne 7 months ago in a very different place mentally to where I am now. From the beginning I felt like I could trust her, which is why I opened up to her more than I have to anyone else I know. Her method of counselling is incredible; professional and genuine. She has helped me make some huge positive changes to my life and
"I came to Suzanne 7 months ago in a very different place mentally to where I am now. From the beginning I felt like I could trust her, which is why I opened up to her more than I have to anyone else I know. Her method of counselling is incredible; professional and genuine. She has helped me make some huge positive changes to my life and has played a big part in making me feel more confident and happy..."
D, London
"I can't quite believe I get to feel like this now, and live this way, feeling genuinely empowered and free...
Between us, we manifested a life for me that I couldn't even imagine. I feel alive in a way I never thought possible for me, and it feels amazing."
K, Surrey.