Suzanne Hutchins

I currently have availability during the day and up to 8pm for after school/work appointments

I hold an MSc Degree in Integrative Counselling Therapy in which my training emphasises the benefits of adopting a flexible approach to using different methods of therapy to meet your specific, and sometimes changing needs. Primarily, I use a patchwork of CBT, Gestalt, Psychodynamic, Creative Therapy, Internal Family Systems theory and Somatic Psychologies, all grounded in a Person Centred, relational practice. Working in this way supports the fact that clients problems are as unique as themselves which needs careful, ethical work that can address a spectrum of challenges from low level anxiety that is impacting daily wellbeing to processing trauma. At the heart of my practice is developing a good therapeutic relationship so that being honest and expanding on emotional exploration feels safe and helpful. In addition, my personal experience and academic research underpins a specialism and interest in supporting Neurodivergent young people to make the most of therapy. 

I work with children and young people from 12-25 years old. I offer face to face 50 minute appointments in a large comfortable space that has an open view of a beautiful garden. It also means you are not confined to a chair with ample room for movement. There is space to lie down for relaxation exercises and room to partake in creative therapies such as art and drama based activities. With schools permission, I am also happy to take sessions at school or in my private space during school hours as well as working online.  Different types of therapy can be needed at different times and I am able to work in a short term solution focused way as well as long term. From my own experience, I believe it is important in some cases to extend the benefits of therapy beyond the room by supporting the family as a whole. With the clients permission, I offer regular meetings with parents and carers to increase understanding and knowledge of how best to support the young person. 

Our first session is centered around making sure you are comfortable with me, and in the room. Starting therapy can be daunting and awkward for some clients. I offer a free 30 minute introductory meet up that allows you to ask questions, and for us to engage in some reciprocal activities to foster a sense of ease between as client and therapist before I invite any discussion about what brings you to me. The first formal therapy hour will be a combination of starting to map out your difficulties as you understand them, and collaborating on your goals and hopes for therapy. This may include standardised assessments in the form of questionnaires to add to our understanding of how best to work together.