Susan Withers

I work Monday to Thursday. My supervision slots are generally on Monday all day and Wednesday morning. However, there may be other available slots, so do ask. 

I have been a supervisor since 2001.  I trained at Bristol University.  My areas of expertise are in professional sports people, including coaches, children and young people, schools, eco-therapy, including Walk and Talk therapy, Animal and Equine Assisted Therapy.

I am also a qualified teacher, so I fully understand the school environment and the challenges it brings.

My professional experience is as a counsellor, trainer, teacher, and consultant. I have worked in collaboration with the DfE, NHS, Professional Sports Bodies, Charities, Councils and Social Care. 

I’m an integrative counsellor with a strong person centred training. 

I will work with you to support your practice from setting up and starting your practice, through to the depth and breadth of deeper work. 

My practice is on the outskirts of Taunton, Somerset nestled in the foot of the Blackdown Hills at the end of a no through road. Therapy takes place in a private and secluded shepherd's hut surrounded by trees. There is access to private outdoor space, toilet and parking.

I am able to offer supervision online. 

My first introductory session is free and can last half an hour. We can have the initial discovery discussion face-to-face, online or over the telephone. In that session I will share with you how I work, answer any questions you may have and ask you what you would hope to achieve in supervision. There is no obligation to make a decision to continue with me at this session.

I work Monday to Thursday inclusive. 

I may not answer emails or telephone calls from Friday to Sunday, but please be reassured I will get back to you. 

My annual holiday is from 23rd December to the 5th January. 

How I Work

Everyone is unique, and therapy with me reflects that. There isn’t one approach that suits everyone, so I take time to get to know you, understand your experiences and explore what might be most helpful.

With over 25 years’ experience of counselling, training and supervising, I’ve worked with individuals, couples, families and groups in a wide range of settings. My approach is warm, compassionate and down to earth. I aim to create a space where you feel comfortable, heard and understood, without judgement or pressure.

My background in developmental psychology helps me understand how our early experiences and relationships shape us throughout life. This is particularly important when working with trauma, anxiety, attachment and relationships. 

I have extensive experience of supporting people with anxiety, depression, complex trauma, attachment difficulties, relationships, conflict and loss. I was also personally trained by David Muss in the Rewind Technique for Trauma.

I have a particular interest and experience in working discreetly with people of high profile, including professional athletes, coaches, families, teams and charities. I understand the unique pressures this environment can bring, both personally and professionally.

At the heart of my work is the relationship we build. I believe therapy should be a collaborative process, where we work together at a pace that feels comfortable for you, making sense of your experiences and finding a way forward.

I also recognise that sitting in a room talking isn’t right for everyone. As a qualified Animal and Equine Assisted Therapist, I can offer different ways of working, including eco-therapy and Walk and Talk sessions.

I offer a free initial 30-minute consultation, face-to-face, by telephone or online. It’s simply an opportunity to have a chat about what you’re looking for, ask any questions and see whether working together feels right. There’s no pressure or obligation.

My Practice & What You Can Expect

My practice is nestled at the foot of the beautiful Blackdown Hills, on the outskirts of Taunton, Somerset. Tucked away at the end of a quiet, no-through road, it offers a peaceful, private setting where you can escape the demands of everyday life and take time for yourself.

Therapy takes place in a cosy shepherd's hut surrounded by trees and nature, with private parking, toilet facilities and outdoor space.  Sessions are 60 minutes.

As an integrative counsellor with a strong person-centred foundation, I believe therapy should be as individual as you are. My approach is inquiring, warm, compassionate and non-judgemental, providing a safe space where you can feel heard, understood and accepted.

I draw upon a range of approaches, including Transactional Analysis, CBT, developmental psychology, neuroscience and creative therapies, tailoring our work to your needs and what feels right for you.

I am also trained in the Rewind Technique, which can help reduce symptoms associated with trauma and PTSD. My experience includes supporting professional sportspeople and military personnel, as well as offering life and parenting mentoring to those seeking clarity and direction.

For those who feel more comfortable outdoors, I offer Eco, Equine and Animal Assisted Therapy within my secluded grounds, with access to fields, woodland and a brook. Walk and Talk Therapy also offers beautiful routes of varying difficulty, with opportunities to pause, reflect and connect with nature.

Above all, I believe in working at your pace, without pressure or expectation. Whether we talk, walk, connect with nature or work creatively, I aim to work with you to help you explore your feelings, discover your strengths and find a way forward.

My first initial consultation is free and can last half an hour. We can meet in the therapy room, online or have a telephone call. In that session I will share with you how I work, answer any questions you may have and ask you what you would hope to achieve in counselling.  

There is no obligation to make a decision to continue therapy with me at this session.  However, if you are sure you would like to, we will begin to explore in more depth what has brought you to counselling.