Claudia Tijou-Smith

Please email for availability. 

I offer online or telephone counselling on a variety of problems like anxiety, work issues and bereavement as well as specialising in adults experiencing narcissistic abuse or coercive control, whether in relationships or with family members. The way I work breaks down geographical barriers, making it easier for survivors to access help from anywhere. I decided to specialise in this after experiencing it myself for many years. Is your partner telling you something didn’t happen when you have evidence it did? Do you approach someone about an issue you have with them for it to be twisted around and the problem turned back on you? These are common questions people ask in counselling and I can assist you by supporting you and giving you a sense of safety on your road to recovery, empowering you and protecting yourself from future harm.

For individuals who have experienced coercive control, the comfort of being in their own space creates a sense of safety during sessions. Online counselling provides a level of anonymity that can be empowering for survivors who may feel hesitant to seek help in person. 

Throughout my time counselling at Mind mental health and working in Occupational Health on Government contracts, I have honed my counselling and mental health expertise. Upon completing my foundational training, I dedicated myself to continuous professional development, seeking out additional training courses to enhance my skills and staying up to date with the latest advancements. I maintain a comprehensive understanding of evidence-based practices and therapeutic techniques, ensuring that my clients receive the most effective care. My commitment to lifelong learning empowers me to provide tailored interventions that meet the unique needs of each individual I encounter, fostering their personal growth and well-being.

Integrative counselling, using trauma-informed practice, this offers a powerful framework for supporting clients in achieving lasting change. This approach acknowledges the profound impact of past trauma on the present, recognizing that the client's lived experiences shape their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. By integrating various therapeutic modalities, I can tailor interventions to meet the unique needs of each individual. This holistic approach might incorporate elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to address maladaptive thought patterns, mindfulness-based practices to cultivate self-awareness and emotional regulation, and psychodynamic therapy to explore the root causes of trauma and its impact on relationships. 

Trauma-informed practice emphasizes safety, trust, and collaboration. I prioritise building a strong therapeutic alliance, creating a safe and non-judgmental space where clients feel empowered to share their experiences. This approach avoids triggering or retraumatizing the client, instead focusing on building resilience and fostering self-compassion.  Through this collaborative process, clients can gain a deeper understanding of their trauma, learn to manage their symptoms, and ultimately reclaim their power and agency in their lives. This approach fosters empowerment and self-discovery, ultimately supporting clients in achieving lasting change and leading fulfilling lives.

The initial consultation is a crucial first step in our therapeutic journey together, allowing me to gain a comprehensive understanding of your current situation and the specific challenges you are facing. This initial session typically extends to 1.5 hours, providing ample time for a thorough exploration of your concerns, goals, and expectations for therapy. Subsequent sessions are 50 minutes long, offering a focused and productive space for continued progress. To ensure a smooth and efficient process, payment of £75.00 for the initial consultation and £50.00 for each subsequent 50-minute session is required a minimum of 24 hours prior to the scheduled appointment via bank transfer. This advance payment allows us to maintain a consistent and uninterrupted therapeutic experience, maximizing the effectiveness of our time together.