Suzy Hutchins

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

I hold an MSc in Integrative Counselling Therapy in which my training emphasises the benefits of adopting a flexible approach that uses 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 ensures therapy is sensitive and ethical, and can address a broad range of challenges. 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 and  offer face to face 50 minute appointments in a large comfortable space that has an open view of a garden with ample room for movement.  With schools permission, I am also happy to take sessions at school or in my private practice 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 that sometimes progress in therapy can be consolidated by supporting the family as a whole. With the clients permission, I volunteer regular meetings with parents and carers to offer further understanding of how they can support the young person as they work through their difficulties. 

Our first session is centered around making sure you are comfortable with me, and in the room. Starting therapy can be daunting 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 light hearted activities to foster a sense of ease between as client and therapist before I invite any discussion about what brings you to therapy. 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. This may include standardised assessments in the form of questionnaires to add to our understanding of how best to work together.