Sarah McMurray

Hello. I'm Sarah and I'm a psychodynamic counsellor and work with adults and young adults (Year 12 onwards). I hope my profile helps you find what you are looking for.

What is the difference between psychodynamic therapy and other counselling? My psychodynamic approach helps you find the root causes of the disconnect in your life. When your feelings become obstacles to living. We can't change our past but we can change the influence it has on us. I can help you explore your unconscious mind's affect on negative thought patterns - your thoughts unknown. Discovering what your deep emotions control in your life can be transformative.

Therapy is a collaborative approach and I am always led by you. There is no agenda or advice, we sit together and you can be truly heard.

My counselling room is a safe space to unpack whatever is troubling you and there is no judgement.  

I work with both young people and adults.

I work with young people through sixth form and beyond.  I have extensive experience supporting mental health needs within the 16-18 age group (from Year 12) within a school setting. I understand the challenges that young people face that can affect their mental health. The therapeutic relationship is different to a parent/child relationship and the counselling room can be a space where a young person can safely explore their difficulties. These feelings can include: feelings of overwhelm, anxiety, low mood, school avoidance, self-harm, body dysmorphia, low self-esteem, lack of confidence, emotional dysregulation, exam stress, friendship/ relationship issues and family conflict.

Adults

My work with adults covers a broad spectrum of presenting problems and you are welcome to bring whatever is troubling you. This can include parenting or relationship issues, family conflict, bereavement and grief, significant life changes including menopause, adverse childhood experiences, relationship to food, self-esteem, shame, anger and managing stress.

My counselling room is part of a health suite of different practitioners in the centre of Tunbridge Wells and a 5 minute walk from the station.

About Me

I worked in the City for ten years before opting for a different path and working within a school setting supporting young people. From here, it felt like a natural progression to complete extensive training in psychodynamic counselling. My aim is to help you to find relief and to enable change.

I am qualified with a Diploma in Psychodynamic Counselling from a BACP accredited training course. I also hold a BA (hons) and continue to further my knowledge with comprehensive CPD.

You will be understandably nervous for your first session and we can take our time to see if we are a good 'fit' for each other and for me to be able to hear what has brought you to counselling.

This session can give you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have about counselling. We can explore timeframes - whether you would benefit from open-ended long term therapy or a shorter time period as well as agree our weekly time and day for our sessions together.