About Me

Hello, I’m Sue—a psychotherapeutic counsellor based in Cottingham, East Yorkshire. I offer both in-person sessions for those local to the area, and online appointments via Zoom for those further afield.

Before becoming a therapist, I spent many years caring for others in a variety of roles—as a nurse, a primary school teacher, and as a foster carer supporting babies, toddlers, and their birth families. These experiences deeply informed my understanding of the emotional and psychological challenges people face, particularly those rooted in early life.

I now work as a therapist to support individuals affected by childhood trauma, including those impacted by adoption, foster care, and early boarding school experiences. I have a particular interest in helping people explore and understand how these early events can shape emotional wellbeing in adulthood. I also support family carers of children with additional needs.

I’m a parent to three grown-up children myself, the youngest of whom was adopted into our family as a baby. Outside of work, I enjoy creative hobbies like painting, drawing, basket-making, and gardening. I share my home with Marigold, a beautiful but feisty cat—don’t worry, she stays out of the therapy room to ensure a comfortable space for everyone.

My journey into psychotherapy began after my own life-changing experience of therapy. What started as scepticism became a turning point—and ultimately, a calling to help others heal.

Professional Memberships: 

• The National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS)
• The UK Association for Transactional Analysis. (UKATA)

Associate memberships:

• Association of Person Centred creative Arts (APPCA)

Qualifications:

• Advanced Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling
• UKATA Diploma in Transactional Analysis Practice
• Certificate in Adoption Support Counselling

I hold a current DBS certificate, have undergone Safeguarding Children and Adults training (Level 1), and carry professional indemnity/liability insurance, and have regular supervision and other professional development to improve and expand my practice.

All this means I am experienced and qualified to help you on your journey. I can empathise with how you are feeling now, and I am confident that together, we will find creative ways to help you explore what you are going through and get you to a point where you can begin see a brighter future.