Counselling & Psychotherapy
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Welcome to
Sharon De Smit Counselling and Psychotherapy
Welcome to Sharon De Smit Counselling and Psychotherapy
Empowerment to Strength: Guiding you through life's challenges, one step at a time
The Elephant in the Room
In the book "The Warrior Within," Christiane Sanderson shares the story of the tethered elephant:
"Elephants are trained to stay where they are by tying a rope around one of their massive legs and attaching it to a peg in the ground. But can the peg and rope really hold back an elephant? Absolutely not! Then why does it work? Because elephants grow up believing they cannot break free.
Maybe they tried to pull away when they were young, but failed. Maybe they were injured. So they stopped trying. The result is that fully grown elephants no longer test the restraint but confine themselves when tethered to the rope."
This story serves as a powerful metaphor for the invisible restraints that can hold us back in life. Our childhood beliefs and failures can become deeply ingrained, causing us to limit our own potential. However, just like the elephant, we have the strength within us to break free from these restraints and create a more fulfilling life. Counselling can help you identify and release these tethers, empowering you to embrace your true potential.
For more information about Counselling and Psychotherapy in West Sussex and Online please see my Counselling and Psychotherapy page.
Finding the Right Therapist – Trust your Instincts
Choosing the right therapist is a crucial step in your journey towards mental well-being.
It is important to find a counsellor with whom you feel comfortable and supported.
Here are some key factors to consider:
Counselling Sessions:
In our counselling sessions, the focus will be on creating a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings. Here’s what to expect:
- Regular Sessions: Typically, sessions are held weekly or bi-weekly and last about 50 minutes.
- Confidential and Non-Judgmental Space: Everything discussed in our sessions is confidential, and you can express yourself freely without fear or judgment.
- Customized Therapy Plans: Each session will be tailored to your current needs and long-term goals. We will use a variety of therapeutic techniques to facilitate your healing and growth.
- Progress Evaluation: Periodically, we will review your progress towards your goals and adjust the therapy plan as needed.
- Homework and Practise: To enhance the effectiveness of therapy, you may be given exercises or tasks to work on between sessions.
Therapy Consultation Overview:
The initial therapy consultation is designed to help us both determine if we are a good fit for each other. During this session we will:
- Discuss Your Concerns: We will talk about what brings you to therapy and what you hope to achieve.
- Review Your history: Understanding your personal and mental health history helps in tailoring the therapy to your needs.
- Explain The Process: I shall provide an overview of how our sessions will work, what you can expect, and any necessary administrative details.
- Set Goals: Together, we will outline your therapeutic goals and develop a plan to address them.
- Answer Questions: This is an opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have about the therapy process.
A Safe Space
Counselling is a collaborative process between you and me, where we work together to identify and address the issues that are causing you distress.
It provides a safe space in which to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours in a confidential and supportive environment.
Through counselling, you can gain a deeper understanding of yourself, develop new coping strategies, and make positive changes in your life.
How Can Counselling Help You?
Our childhood beliefs and failures can become deeply ingrained, causing us to limit our own potential. Counselling can help you identify and release these tethers, empowering you to embrace your true potential. Trauma often underpins many of the issues such as:
- Emotional Issues
- Mental Health Problems
- Disturbing Thoughts
Other areas that I can help you with are:
Abuse
Attachment Issues
Addictions and Substance Dependency
Anger Management
Anxiety
Bereavement
Cultural Issues
Depression
Eating Disorder
Identity Issues
LGBT
Loss
Neurodiversity
OCD
Panic Attacks
Phobias
PTSD
Relationship Issues
Sadness / Self Esteem
Self-Harm
Suicide Ideation
Stress
Our childhood experiences can have a profound impact on how we feel and function as adults.
Counselling can help you break free from the invisible chains that hold you back, just like the elephant who realises the rope can no longer restrain them. However, just like the elephant, we have the strength within us to break free from these restraints and create a more fulfilling life.
By exploring your past and understanding how it has shaped your present, I can help you work through your experiences and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Through a trauma-informed approach, I aim to create a safe, supportive space where you can process your experiences, heal and grow.
I offer a range of counselling options to accommodate your individual preferences and needs. You can choose to meet with me face-to-face in a comfortable, private setting in West Sussex for in-person counselling. Alternatively, if you prefer the convenience and accessibility of online counselling, I provide secure, confidential video sessions via the Teams platform, allowing you to access support from the comfort of your own space. For those who prefer a less intense and more convenient way of counselling, I offer sessions by telephone. Regardless of the format you choose, you can expect to receive the same level of professional, compassionate support to help you on your journey towards healing and personal growth.
If you are ready to take the first step towards a brighter, more fulfilling future, I invite you to reach out for a free 10-20 minute introductory telephone call. Together, we can explore how Counselling and Psychotherapy in West Sussex and Online can support you in breaking free from the chains that hold you back - to embrace your true potential.
My location
My practice is based in a warm and comfortable space in Storrington, West Sussex, making it easily accessible from Horsham, Worthing, Chichester, Billingshurst, Pulborough, Petworth, Arundel, and the surrounding areas. However, I also offer online counselling services, which allows me to work with individuals from anywhere in the UK.
Fees & availability
All sessions are 50-60 minutes.
Standard fee: £50.00 per session - Daytime
Student fee: £35.00 per session – Daytime
Evening and Saturday sessions: £60.00 - £75.00 per session
Low Income and/or claiming benefits fee: £25.00 per session - Daytime
Depending on financial circumstances, I do offer concessionary fees and for pensioners who are in receipt of pension credit. I accept GP and Mental Health Referrals. If you have any questions about my fees or if you would like to discuss them further, please get in touch. Please note that reduced fees must be agreed upon prior to our first session.
Payment Methods
Bank transfer (payable prior to each session)
Cash (payable prior to end of each session)
Cancellation Policy
If you need to cancel or reschedule, please provide at least 24 hours' notice via text or email to avoid being charged for the session.
Get in touch
Thank you for reaching out and considering Counselling and Psychotherapy in West Sussex and Online. I understand that taking the first step towards seeking support can be challenging, and I commend you for your courage and dedication to your well-being.
If you have any questions about my counselling and psychotherapy services or would like to enquire about availability, then please fill out the contact form and/or email me directly.
If you wish to receive a free 10-20 minute introductory phone call, I invite you to fill out the self-referral form below and I will aim to get back to you within 48 hours to schedule your introductory phone call to discuss how I can support you on your journey towards healing and growth.
Once again, thank you for considering Counselling and Psychotherapy in West Sussex and Online. I look forward to connecting with you and supporting you on your path to a more fulfilling, authentic life.
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