Denise Smith

Denise Smith


Registered Member MÍø±¬ÃÅ

Contact information

Phone number
07930 368073

Contact Denise


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Therapist - Lightwater

Lightwater GU18
07930 368073
Sessions from £55.00

Features

  • Flexible hours available
  • Concessionary rates

Availability

Currently taking on new clients for in-person sessions and walk-and-talk sessions from my base in Lightwater, Surrey.

If online sessions are more convenient, this can be arranged, though I ask that we have two in-person sessions first, to ensure you feel comfortable and grounded in the therapeutic process.

About me and my therapy practice

Life can be challenging, whether you’re trying to make sense of your past, facing the unexpected, or preparing for changes you know are coming but don’t yet feel ready to face. These moments can leave you feeling confused, conflicted, or unsure how to navigate your emotions. It can feel isolating, as if no one truly understands what you’re going through.

You don’t have to face it alone. As your counsellor, I’ll walk alongside you, offering a calm, supportive space to explore how your experiences shape the way you think and feel today.

I am an Integrative Counsellor, this means I use a variety of therapeutic models to suit your unique needs, emotionally, mentally, and practically. ​

​I am especially passionate about working with young people aged 15–25.

I have worked extensively with this age group, working inclusively with many whom identified neurodivergent, and LGBTQ+, supporting a range of common mental health concerns.

This stage of life is a time of significant transition, self-discovery, and often, uncertainty. It can feel overwhelming, navigating the shift from adolescence into adulthood, trying to understand who you are, and where you fit in.

​I offer a space where you can pause, reflect, and be yourself, free from judgment or expectation. Together, we’ll make sense of your emotions, understand your needs, and find clarity, confidence, and direction.

Parenting and caring for young adults can bring new and sometimes unexpected challenges. Balancing paternal emotions as roles change and independence grows, it’s common for parents to feel uncertain about how best to offer support while allowing space for autonomy (the freedom to choose), and agency (the ability to act on those choices).

Counselling can provide parents and carers, with a confidential space to explore these feelings, reflect on their role, and develop supportive ways of relating that strengthen connection and understanding during this time of change.


Practice description

At the heart of my work is the therapeutic relationship. I believe this is one of the most important aspects of effective therapy. I strive to offer a warm, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where you can speak openly and feel truly heard. Building trust and safety, as these are the foundations from which meaningful change and healing can emerge. ​

I deeply respect the importance of working at your own pace. Therapy isn’t a race or a checklist, it’s a personal journey that unfolds differently for each person. Whether you’re exploring past trauma, navigating the complexities of neurodivergence, or seeking to improve communication in your relationships or family life, we’ll take the time you need to explore what matters most to you. I’ll walk alongside you with empathy and respect, creating a collaborative space to support your thoughts and feelings.

I work from my base in Lightwater, with a choice of office based or walk and talk sessions. Walk and talk offers a gentle alternative to traditional indoor counselling, taking our sessions outdoors into nature. Nature provides a peaceful, grounding backdrop, offering space to breathe, reflect, and reconnect.

For neurodivergent clients, walk and talk can be particularly supportive. The movement, fresh air, and sensory elements of the natural environment can help with focus, regulation, and processing emotions.

Being outside can also reduce the pressure of eye contact and traditional social cues. I find this approach gives us the freedom to work in a way that feels comfortable and supportive for you.


My first session

Many people come to counselling unsure of what to expect. I offer a complimentary exploratory call,  (usually around 15–20 minutes) where we can talk about what’s bringing you to counselling, what you might like to get from it, and how I work. It’s a great opportunity for you to ask any questions and decide whether you feel comfortable working together, there’s no obligation to book after this call.

If you feel I’m the right counsellor for you, we can begin with weekly 50-minute sessions, charged at £55 each. There’s no set timeframe, your journey will unfold at its own pace, and we’ll take time to reflect together on how you’re progressing and what you need next.

I offer a discount to counsellors in training, emergency services and armed forces personnel.



What I can help with

Abuse, ADD / ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Autism spectrum, Bereavement, Child related issues, Coercive control, Cultural issues, Depression, Eating disorders, Health related issues, Identity issues, LGBTQ+ counselling, Loss, Menopause, Mood disorder, Neurodiversity, Phobias, Redundancy, Relationships, Self esteem, Self-harm, Sexual identity, Sexuality, Stress, Trauma, Women's issues, Work related issues

Types of therapy

CBT, Humanistic, Integrative, Person centred, Psychoanalytic, Psychodynamic

Clients I work with

Adults, EAP, Older adults, Organisations, Trainees, Young people

How I deliver therapy

Long term sessions, Long-term face-to-face work, Online therapy, Outdoor therapy, Short term sessions, Short-term face-to-face work, Single session therapy (SST)