Suzanne Downes

My availability is flexible including day times (Mondays and Fridays), evenings and sometimes weekends (if needed).

The sessions are normally face to face, but I can offer sessions remotely (my preferred platform is Zoom) and telephone. I can be contacted either by email or phone.

My location is Seaford, East Sussex and I offer a lower rate for working with young people under 16 years of age.

I also offer walk and talk therapy sessions as an alternative to traditional counselling as some clients (possibly children/adolescents) prefer this approach. These sessions would still be within the therapeutic 60 minutes.

Counselling to some can be daunting just at the mere thought of sitting uncomfortable with a stranger. So, in those difficult times we avoid, disassociate and hope that our feelings (symptoms) will disappear. Noticing, acknowledging, accepting and then reaching out is the first step for change. I have worked with many adults and children who have expressed how challenging it was in the beginning to be honest with themselves and then to actively do something about it. Once those hurdles are overcome then change can and will happen.

I have come to understand that life gives us difficulties and challenges at times and sometimes we just need someone who is constant and will literally hold our hand as we work through the uncomfortable feelings and challenging experiences. I have experienced that invaluable hand and know that when I take on a client, I am totally committed and will provide you with a safe space where you can be truly heard. Everyone’s journey is unique, and I believe you to be the expert on yourself, but hopefully with my support and experience, you can trust me to give you the best help available. I have no expectations of you and the counselling time is for you, just as you are, where all your feelings, thoughts and emotions are welcome.

There is help and there is hope, so please make contact today.

There are many counsellors with many different approaches so it’s essential that you find the right one and at the right time. I'm an accredited Person-Centred counsellor (MBACP) and when broken down this means the counsellor is non-directive and uses empathy, congruence & unconditional positive regard. This creates an environment that upholds connection, trust, safety and confidentiality. I have over twelve years experience working with adults, adolescents and children and my therapeutic approach is inclusive, holistic, sensitive, spiritual, and non-judgemental.

Working with children in primary & secondary schools has taught me a great deal, especially with being my authentic self and treating everyone as equal. Children especially need to feel safe when sharing their feelings and to not feel judged or punished for behaviours they are struggling to contain and manage. I pride myself on my ability to connect with young people and to gain their trust by stepping into their world. Parents also need to feel assured that their children are in safe hands and that’s why it is imperative that pre-appointments take place, and I offer those free of charge. I work from a beautiful out-building in my garden and the children have stated that they enjoy the safety of that space. I have successfully supported children with a wide range issues and conditions such as ADHD, neurodiversity, autism, attachment disorders, eating disorders, self-harm, and anxiety.

Everyone wants to feel healthy, less stressed and have reduced anxiety symptoms and having any form of counselling will help make improvements in your life. I can assist you in recognising and understanding and identifying patterns, along with areas that immobilize growth and just get in the way of progress. I can support you with past trauma and painful experiences that are keeping you feeling stuck and not moving in the direction you have hoped for. 

Counselling is unique and personal and not all modalities suit everyone. I offer person-centred counselling to all ages that is heartfelt, genuine, empathic and respectful. Finding the right therapist can be a challenging process, so it is essential to trust your instinct to help you decide.

Life can feel tough, isolating, and scary at times and so with my support you don’t have to go through it on your own. I understand and have worked on my own vulnerability around anxiety, depression and also feeling fearful to openly come out as a gay woman. I too have experienced shame, guilt and humiliation. Everyone has a story, a past, a struggle and that’s why talking, processing, and finally being brave matters.

I strongly believe that you are the expert on yourself, and our work together will be collaborative not directive. Too many people are given disempowering labels, and I always strive to meet the person beyond those.

I believe in offering a safe space where I can listen to you, whether at my home or conducted on-line or on the phone. Inclusivity is at the heart of my practise, embracing diversity regardless of ethnicity, cultural background, sexuality and gender identity.

My approach to therapy is based on valuing you as a whole person. No matter what has happened in your life or how bad you feel I will listen and be alongside you. What you see is what you get with me, and I am down-to-earth, working in a warm and non-judgemental environment allowing you to explore your thoughts and feelings safely and without prejudice.

I have a two Bedlington Terriers called Hector & Wilma and rescue chickens. Those who like dogs can have them in the session if that helps in any way. If you do not like dogs, then they will be safely secured elsewhere. The chickens have to stay outside unfortunately.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions, or to book an appointment by filling out the form on this page.

From my own experiences, I understand that it takes bravery and courage to first make contact and so I want to make your experience as accessible and friendly as it can be. Children especially always believe that counsellors are old, carry clipboards and look down at you past their glasses. This is definitely not the case. Instead I am a professional woman that will hear what you have to say, offer empathy, works ethically, upholds confidentiality and positions herself right alongside you.

First, we book a free 15-minute phone call so I can explain my therapeutic approach and answer any questions you may have. Getting the right counsellor is key so there is no obligation to follow through. 

If a connection is formed, then I offer an introductory session, which is free and again without obligation. This introduction will hopefully give you a sense of how I work and provide an opportunity for you to ask additional questions.

With children, it’s important they feel safe and comfortable and like the space. Sometimes they struggle to articulate their feelings. I also currently work with individuals aged 6 to 11 in a school in the East Sussex area.

There will be some paperwork to fill out, which gives clarity about why you have come for therapy, and it outlines past and present history providing me with a better understanding of the support you need. We can discuss your goals and expectations along with determining what your fears and limitations are and to agree on how we will work together.

Thereafter, face to face or remote video/telephone sessions last for 60 minutes. My session fee is £70. I am willing to negotiate on my fees depending on your personal circumstances. We will discuss a contract for working together during the initial phone call or at the introductory session, which includes practicalities such as payments and missed sessions, confidentiality and data protection (GDPR).