Experienced integrative counsellor based in Stoneleigh, Surrey
Sarah Sims Counselling
Compassionate support for a clearer, calmer you
Hi, I’m Sarah, an integrative counsellor offering sessions online via Microsoft Teams and in-person at my private office in Stoneleigh, Surrey.
About me
I am a qualified counsellor and a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I hold a BSc and MSc in Psychology, as well as a Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling. Alongside my private practice, I work as a counsellor within the NHS in a busy GP surgery, with patient referrals that encompass a wide range of presenting problems.
I have also worked as a healthcare researcher for over 20 years and am currently based at King's College London, having previously worked for St George's University of London and the Mental Health Foundation. My research explores the emotional impact of living with long-term conditions, as well as the challenges faced by those caring for loved ones who need ongoing support.
My counselling approach is rooted in compassion, curiosity, and respect. I want clients to feel seen, heard, and supported as they work through life’s challenges and my practice is welcoming and inclusive of people from all backgrounds and identities. I work with adults experiencing a wide range of emotional difficulties, including low mood, anxiety, depression, burnout, relationship and workplace challenges, bereavement and low self-esteem. I also work with people living with long-term health conditions, such as diabetes, stroke, Parkinson's disease and brain injury, and their family members. At the heart of my work is a simple aim: to help people feel less alone, more understood, and better equipped to navigate the ups and downs of life.
How I can help
Reaching out for therapy can feel like a big and brave step. Often, we don’t realise just how much we’ve been coping with until we reach a point where something needs to change. Simply recognising that you might need support, in whatever form that takes, is an important first step, and one you can feel proud of.
I offer in-person sessions at my private office in Stoneleigh, Surrey as well as online counselling, where you can connect from wherever feels most comfortable for you. My aim is to provide a safe space to talk openly, reflect on what’s happening, and explore ways forward that feel right for you. Together, we can make sense of your experiences, find practical ways to cope, and strengthen your ability to navigate life’s challenges.
My approach is integrative, which means that I draw on different therapeutic methods to suit your individual needs. We might explore the roots of your difficulties, experiment with new ways of coping, or focus on nurturing resilience, self-compassion and confidence.
Speak in Confidence
I provide a fully private and confidential space where you can speak openly and honestly. Everything we discuss is treated with respect and discretion, allowing you to explore your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgement. My aim is to create a safe, supportive environment where you feel heard, understood, and free to express yourself at your own pace.
Making Sense of Your Story
You are the expert in your own life. Together, we can explore your thoughts, emotions and behaviours, uncover patterns, identify coping strategies, and deepen your understanding of why you feel and respond the way you do. My role is to support you in processing your experiences and discovering insights that help you move forward with greater clarity and resilience.
Discovering Possibilities
Therapy can help you uncover new perspectives, identify options you might not have considered, and open the door to possibilities for change and growth that feel right for you.
What to expect
Finding the right therapist is important. Not every counsellor and client is a perfect match, so I offer all new clients a free 15 minute initial telephone consultation to see how it feels to work together and ensure I can offer you the support you need.
If, after this initial consultation, you decide it’s not quite right for you, that’s OK. I can suggest other local counsellors or signpost you to specialist agencies to consider now or in the future. If you do decide to work with me, our sessions would usually be held on a weekly basis either in person or online. Each week, you’ll have space to explore what feels most important to you, and I build in regular reviews to make sure your needs are being met and that our work remains supportive and ethical.
I offer both short-term blocks (6–12 weeks) and longer-term therapy. Many clients find that longer-term work allows us to build a strong therapeutic relationship and fully explore the issues that brought you here. The work continues until you feel ready to end, and we’ll discuss this together during our reviews to ensure you feel supported throughout.
If you prefer to work online
Online counselling offers flexibility, allowing you to connect from the comfort of your home. Please ensure you are in a quiet, comfortable space where you can speak freely without being overheard. A reliable Wi-Fi connection is also essential. For insurance purposes, I am only able to work online with clients based in the UK.
Fees & availability
Sessions last 50 minutes, usually taking place on a weekly basis and cost £65 per session. Please contact me in the secure contact form below to enquire about my availability.
Please note that payment for your session is requested at least 48 hours in advance. If you need to cancel or reschedule, I kindly ask for at least 48 hours notice. Sessions cancelled with less notice may still be charged.
I accept payment by bank transfer.
Get in touch
You’re welcome to get in touch if you have any questions about counselling or would like to arrange an initial appointment.
Please use the secure contact form to reach me. All enquiries are treated confidentially.