Samia Quddus

I am available on Monday to Wednesday from 5.30 pm to 7.30pm.

Central to my therapeutic approach is providing healthy counselling where a compassionate and non-judgemental contained space enables you to feel accepted, seen and heard. I understand the complexities that many South Asian, Black, and Ethnic communities may experience with mental health support. I employ a culturally and faith-sensitive approach in all my work.

Why You Might be Here

Exploring emotional histories, life experiences, gaining better awareness of self, navigating testing times are some of the reasons why people seek therapy. For children and adolescents, having an empathic and listening presence can be all that they need. Whatever your reasons for therapy, working with me you will find a warm and safe space that is personalised to your needs and draws on your inner resourcefulness.

How I Work

Therapy is not a one-size-fits-all approach and as such I employ diverse therapeutic techniques to tailor counselling to client needs. My counselling approach is integrative, meaning I draw on various models underpinned by psychodynamic, psychoanalytic, person centred, CBT, neuroscience, play therapy, art creativity and talk therapy theories to offer a flexible counselling service.

About Me

I am a fully qualified therapist and Social Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) Specialist. As a Registered Member of the British Association for Counsellors and Psychotherapists (MBACP), I adhere to their code of conduct and ethical framework. I am fully insured and registered with the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), possessing an Enhanced DBS check. 

Experience

Private Practice - Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist and Adult Therapist: 

In my private practice, I see clients of various ages and backgrounds commonly exploring issues related to family systems, family related abuse, family and in-law dynamics, relationships, school pressures, relocation transitions, anxiety and depression. I also provide parent/ carer support. 

School Psychotherapist-Counsellor: 

I have substantial experience working with children and adolescents. Currently, I manage and oversee the counselling provision at a secondary school in Waltham Forest supporting pupils with emotional challenges, on occasions in partnership with NHS professionals, Social Services and Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS). Weekly sessions explore client-led issues ranging from anxiety, self-harm, exam pressures, peer issues and parent-child dynamics. In primary school, I work with children across Key Stage 1 and 2 employing creative and play therapeutic practices.

Nour Domestic Violence Non-Profit Organisation Women's Service:

I have therapeutic counselling experience working with South Asian women aged 20 and above supporting them with trauma, abuse and domestic violence-related issues.

I lecture lecture/ teach on the Postgraduate Diploma for Counselling Children in Schools at Place2be, one of the UK’s leading children’s mental health charity. I have published in the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) Children, Young People and Families magazine and appear as TV Mental Health Expert on Islam Channel.

Free Consultation 

I offer a free, 15 - 20 minute telephone consultation to briefly explore your reasons for counselling, for you to ask any questions and arrange an assessment.

Initial Consultation and Assessment

An assessment consultation is made prior to any counselling work - this is an opportunity to gain a background history and form an understanding of presenting difficulties. In the assessment we explore your reasons for seeking therapy, any questions you may have as well as to ensure that if you decide to go ahead with therapy, you or your family member feel comfortable to work with me. If I am not the best fit for you, I will recommend someone else. This meeting up to 50 minutes either in-person or online via zoom, and is not a therapeutic session.